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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota could have their own requirements.
Residency Requirement:
You do not have to be a resident of Minnesota.ID Requirement:
You must provide proper identification along with Social Security numbers.Previous Marriages:
If you were previously married, you must show proof of divorce, death, or annulment from your most recent marriage.
Cousin Marriages:
No.
Waiting Period:
Minnesota has a waiting period of five (5) working days. This waiting period can be waived a district judge if the circumstances are considered to be "extraordinary."
Fees:
$110 for those who don't provide written proof of premarital education. $40 fee for those who do take an authorized premarital education course that has a minimum of 12 hours.
Call before you leave to get your marriage license application to make sure that the fee hasn't changed. Be prepared to pay in cash.
Other Tests:
Minnesota does not require blood tests.
Proxy Marriages:
No. However, only one applicant can apply for the marriage license as long as all the required information for the absent partner is provided. Call the Clerk of Court to see how to get your partner's signature notarized. Requirements may vary from county to county.
Common Law Marriages:
No.
Premarital Education:
Yes. There is a waiver of a portion of the marriage license fees to couples who do a 12 hour premarital education course. The course must use a premarital inventory, teaching about communication skills, and conflict management skills. According to the Minnesota Statute, "The premarital education must be provided by a licensed or ordained minister or the minister's designee, a person authorized to solemnize marriages under section 517.18, or a person authorized to practice marriageand family therapy under section 148B.33.
Minnesota Statute 517.02
Attention: Office of the State Registrar
717 Delaware St SE
P.O. Box 9441
Minneapolis, MN 55440-9441
Phone: (612) 676-5120
Fax: (612) 331-5776
Additionally, make sure that you have proof of attending the premarital education course on the state approved form.
Same Sex Marriages:
No.Under 18:
Brides and grooms who are 16 and 17 years old need parental consent or court approval.Minnesota Statute 517.02
Officiants:
Judges, clerks of court, court commissioners, and licensed ministers, priests or rabbis, as well as representatives of Bahai, Hindu, Quaker and American Indian religious groups are authorized to perform weddings in Minnesota.Witnesses:
You will need at least two witnesses at your wedding ceremony. The witnesses must be at least 16 years of age.Miscellaneous:
License is valid for six (6) months.Copy of Certificate of Marriage:
Minnesota Department of HealthAttention: Office of the State Registrar
717 Delaware St SE
P.O. Box 9441
Minneapolis, MN 55440-9441
Phone: (612) 676-5120
Fax: (612) 331-5776
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.
