Tennessee Marriage License Requirements | Courthouse Wedding Guide
Planning a courthouse wedding or civil ceremony in Tennessee? 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 Tennessee.
Marriage License Requirements in Tennessee (2025)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License Fee | Varies by county (typically $92–$105; reduced with premarital course) |
| Waiting Period | None |
| License Validity | 30 days |
| Where to Apply | 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) | Both parties must be 18 — Tennessee recently (2023) updated laws; no parental consent exceptions |
| Witnesses Required | Not required (room for one optional witness on license) |
| Ceremony Cost (Estimate) | Varies by officiant |
What You Need to Know About Getting Married in Tennessee
Tennessee updated its marriage age laws in 2023 — both parties must now be at least 18, with no exceptions. Premarital counseling certificate can reduce the license fee significantly. License must be returned within 3 days of ceremony. No witnesses required.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Tennessee 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 Clerk's office — both parties must appear in person unless stated otherwise.
- Pay the fee — Varies by county (typically $92–$105; reduced with premarital course). 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.
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Source: Tennessee 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.