Applying for a Marriage License in Michigan

If you've just set a date for your wedding, this can be an exciting time for the two of you! Don't let the marriage license laws of Michigan put a dent in your wedding plans.

Here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a Michigan marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your wedding date.

Congratulations and much happiness as you begin your lifetime journey together!

Requirements may vary as each county in Michigan could have their own requirements.

Residency Requirement:

You do not have to be a resident of Michigan, but the fee is $10 more for non-residents.

Residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county in which one of them lives. Non-residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county where they plan on getting married.

Previous Marriage: You need to know the date (mm/dd/yy) and how the last marriage ended. If it was within the last 6 months, you will need to bring proof of the divorce that can be left with the Clerk.

ID Requirement in Michigan:

Picture id such as Drivers License. You can also use Military ID, DD 214, You must also have a certified copy of your birth certificates.

You will also need to know your parents addresses, and your mothers' maiden names. Foreign birth certificates need to be translated into English, and be notarized.

Covenant Marriage Option:

No.

Fees in Michigan: $20 if you are a resident of Michigan. $30 for non-residents. Some counties may charge more. Bring cash. Most counties do not accept checks.

Other Tests: None.

Cousin Marriages: No.

Common Law Marriages: No, unless entered into the relationship prior to January 1, 1957.

Same Sex Marriages:

No. In November, 2004, voters passed a constitutional amendment banning same sex marriage.

Under 18:

If you are 16 or 17 years old, you can get married with parental consent. Your parents must appear with their own identification and if a custodial parent, proof of their custody. If you are 15 or younger, you will need both parental consent and the approval of the probate court.

Secret Marriages:

Back in 1897, secret marriages were approved. If a couple requests a secret marriage, if permitted by a judge, after the ceremony is solemnized, the officiant returns the certificate, but the judge may seal the file and allow no publicity about the marriage.
What Qualifies One for a Secret Marriage?

Witnesses:

Witnesses do not have to be 18 years of age, but they do need to be able to understand what they are witnessing, and to be able to sign their legal signature.

Officiants:

Marriages may be performed by federal, probate, district, and municipal judges, and district court magistrates, in their court area; mayors, in their city; County clerks; ministers and pastors of the gospel, both resident and non-resident. The Michigan Statutes also have a provision that allows for marriages to "be solemnized in the manner heretofore used and practiced in their respective societies or denominations."

Miscellaneous:

License is valid for thirty (30) days.

Copy of Certificate of Marriage:

Vital Records
3423 North Martin Luther King Boulevard
P.O. Box 30195
Lansing, MI 48909
Phone: (517) 335-8656

PLEASE NOTE:

State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.