North Dakota Marriage License Requirements | Courthouse Wedding Guide
Planning a courthouse wedding or civil ceremony in North Dakota? 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 North Dakota.
Marriage License Requirements in North Dakota (2025)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License Fee | $65 (some counties: cash only) |
| Waiting Period | None |
| License Validity | 60 days |
| Where to Apply | County Recorder or Clerk of Court (apply in county where either party lives or where ceremony will take place) |
| Documents Required | Valid government-issued photo ID; Social Security number; certified copy of divorce decree required if previously divorced |
| Residency Required | Not required |
| Minimum Age (No Consent) | 18 |
| Minimum Age (With Parental Consent) | 16–17 with notarized parental consent statement |
| Witnesses Required | 2 required |
| Ceremony Cost (Estimate) | Varies by officiant |
What You Need to Know About Getting Married in North Dakota
Certified copy of divorce decree is mandatory if previously divorced — bring it or obtain it beforehand. No waiting period. 2 witnesses required. License must be returned within 5 days of ceremony.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your North Dakota Marriage License
- Gather your documents — Valid government-issued photo ID; Social Security number; certified copy of divorce decree required if previously divorced. If previously married, bring your divorce decree or death certificate.
- Visit County Recorder or Clerk of Court (apply in county where either party lives or where ceremony will take place) — both parties must appear in person unless stated otherwise.
- Pay the fee — $65 (some counties: cash only). 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 — 60 days.
- Return the signed license — after your ceremony, your officiant (or you, if self-solemnizing) must return the completed license to the issuing office.
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Source: North Dakota 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.