Getting a Marriage License in Minnesota
Where to apply for a marriage license in Minnesota, what to bring, the waiting period, how long it's valid, and the minimum marriage age.
Short answer: A license from the local registrar of any Minnesota county is required, and the marriage may take place anywhere in Minnesota. Minn. Stat. §§ 517.07, 517.08
| Getting a marriage license | A license from the local registrar of any Minnesota county is required, and the marriage may take place anywhere in Minnesota. Both parties apply on the state form, giving names, addresses, ages, any prior marriage and how it ended, and Social Security numbers (or a certification of none). Both must present proof of age, such as a birth certificate, driver's license or other government or school ID. The registrar examines the parties under oath (in person, by phone or video, or by a signed verified statement); if one party cannot appear, that party must send a notarized verification. The license is valid for six months. The fee is $125, or $50 for couples who complete at least 12 hours of qualifying premarital education. Subdivision 1c of § 517.08 refers to a $40 reduced fee while subdivision 1b sets $50; check with the county registrar. Source: Minn. Stat. §§ 517.07, 517.08 |
|---|---|
| Minimum marriage age | A person must be at least 18 to marry in Minnesota. The statute contains no exception for parental consent or court approval. Source: Minn. Stat. § 517.02 |
Where to get help in Minnesota
More Minnesota divorce & family law
- Adopting a Child in Minnesota
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Minnesota
- Establishing Paternity in Minnesota
- Changing Your Name in Minnesota
- Child Custody Laws in Minnesota
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Minnesota
- Divorce Records in Minnesota
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Minnesota
- How to File for Divorce in Minnesota
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Minnesota
- All Minnesota divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you get a marriage license in Minnesota?
A license from the local registrar of any Minnesota county is required, and the marriage may take place anywhere in Minnesota. Both parties apply on the state form, giving names, addresses, ages, any prior marriage and how it ended, and Social Security numbers (or a certification of none). Both must present proof of age, such as a birth certificate, driver's license or other government or school ID. The registrar examines the parties under oath (in person, by phone or video, or by a signed verified statement); if one party cannot appear, that party must send a notarized verification. The license is valid for six months. The fee is $125, or $50 for couples who complete at least 12 hours of qualifying premarital education.
What is the legal age to get married in Minnesota?
A person must be at least 18 to marry in Minnesota. The statute contains no exception for parental consent or court approval.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.