Missouri Marriage License Requirements | Courthouse Wedding Guide
Planning a courthouse wedding or civil ceremony in Missouri? This is your complete, verified guide to marriage license requirements — fees, waiting periods, witnesses, age requirements, and everything else you need to know to get legally married in Missouri.
Marriage License Requirements in Missouri (2025)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License Fee | Varies by county (typically $50–$60) |
| Waiting Period | None |
| License Validity | 30 days |
| Where to Apply | County Recorder of Deeds or County Clerk's office |
| Documents Required | Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties |
| Residency Required | Not required |
| Minimum Age (No Consent) | 18 |
| Minimum Age (With Parental Consent) | Under 18 — Missouri recently tightened marriage age laws; contact county clerk for current requirements |
| Witnesses Required | Not required |
| Ceremony Cost (Estimate) | Varies by officiant |
What You Need to Know About Getting Married in Missouri
No waiting period. 30-day validity. Missouri has recently updated its marriage age requirements — both parties must now be at least 18 in most circumstances.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Missouri Marriage License
- Gather your documents — Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties. If previously married, bring your divorce decree or death certificate.
- Visit County Recorder of Deeds or County Clerk's office — both parties must appear in person unless stated otherwise.
- Pay the fee — Varies by county (typically $50–$60). Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods (cash, card, money order).
- Observe the waiting period — None. Plan your application date accordingly.
- Use your license within the validity window — 30 days.
- Return the signed license — after your ceremony, your officiant (or you, if self-solemnizing) must return the completed license to the issuing office.
Plan Your Missouri Courthouse Wedding with CourthouseCloud
CourthouseCloud is built specifically for courthouse weddings and civil ceremonies. From license guidance to ceremony coordination, we make getting legally married simple, elegant, and stress-free. Start planning your Missouri courthouse wedding today →
Source: Missouri official vital records / court authority. Requirements verified May 2026. Always confirm current requirements directly with your local clerk's office before your visit, as fees and rules are subject to change.