For many people, the idea of getting married in Las Vegas is incredibly appealing. There is a slew of venues available, and most offer comprehensive packages that address everything you’d otherwise need to plan. Plus, it allows couples to get married and have a honeymoon all in the same place, simplifying things even further. But if you want to get married in Las Vegas, one thing you do need to handle is the marriage license. Here’s what you need to know about getting a Las Vegas marriage license.
Who Can Get a Las Vegas Marriage License?
Generally, the eligibility requirements for a marriage license in Las Vegas are straightforward. Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time they apply. For residents of Clark County, being 17 years old may be permitted if the minor applicant has a court order from a judge with the Nevada District Court.
Applicants must also be unmarried at the time of completing the application. Finally, the applicants can’t be any more closely related than second cousins or half-blood cousins.
What You Need to Provide to Apply for the Marriage License
When applying for a Las Vegas marriage license, both parties will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID. This can include valid state-issued or foreign government-issued IDs or driver’s licenses that show the person’s full name and date of birth, as well as passports or military IDs. Certificates of Naturalization and Certificates of Citizenship also work. The same is true of permanent resident cards.
In some cases, original certified birth certificates may serve as stand-ins. However, if you don’t have any of the identification options listed above, it’s best to contact the Clark County Marriage Services office to discuss the situation and receive guidance.
For US citizens, you will need to enter your Social Security number on the application. However, you don’t need to present the card when retrieving your marriage license.
Additionally, divorced individuals will need to enter details about their divorce, including the date it occurred and where it was finalized. Presenting a copy of the divorce decree isn’t necessary unless it gives you the right to a new legal name that isn’t currently listed on your photo ID.
For widowed applicants, the date and location associated with their spouse’s passing are required. However, you don’t need to present a death certificate when receiving your license.
How to Apply for a Las Vegas Marriage License
Applying for a marriage license in Las Vegas is relatively simple. First, you’ll need to complete the initial application online. Even though you’re submitting an online application, you’ll still need to go to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau in person to retrieve the license. The goal of this approach is to dramatically reduce the amount of time spent physically in the office, and this is a move that was implemented during COVID-19 that is still used today.
The application is viewable and completable using computers and mobile devices. As a result, you can use your device of choice. As long as you have access to the internet, the process is typically smooth.
Your online application remains on file for one year, so you can do this well in advance of your arrival in Las Vegas for your wedding. Once you get to Las Vegas, you’ll need to head to the Clark Country Marriage License office to retrieve your license.
Where to Apply for a Las Vegas Marriage License
The Clark Country Marriage License Bureau has an office in Las Vegas. It’s located at:
201 E. Clark Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89101
The Clark Country Marriage License Bureau is open seven days per week from 8:00 am to midnight. It doesn’t close on holidays, so you can head there any day of the year to get your marriage license.
Once you arrive at the office, you’ll need to provide the required ID as outlined above. Additionally, you’ll have to handle the associated fee. The base fee is $102, but there’s an additional convenience fee if you choose to pay using a debit or credit card.
After that’s handled, you’ll receive the documents you need to get married. Those are valid for one year after the date they’re issued, so you also have plenty of time to plan your ceremony if you haven’t already.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Marriage License in Las Vegas
Generally, the marriage license process is incredibly quick if you complete the application online. In most cases, you can be in and out in an hour or less, though wait times may vary depending on the number of couples who are trying to speak with a clerk at that time. As a result, if you have a ceremony already scheduled, it’s wise to arrive at the Clark Country Marriage License Bureau with plenty of time to spare, just in case the wait is longer than usual.
The Waiting Period for Las Vegas Marriage Licenses
While many marriage licenses do come with a waiting period before the couple is allowed to wed, that isn’t the case in Clark County. Clark County imposes no waiting period. As a result, as soon as the document is issued, couples can get married immediately.
Do You Need a Witness to Get Married in Las Vegas?
If you’re getting married in Las Vegas, you’ll need at least one witness who isn’t the officiant. If you’re eloping as a couple and don’t have any guests with you, many wedding chapels in Las Vegas can supply a witness, often for no additional charge. However, if you do have family members or friends attending, up to two of them can be listed as witnesses on your marriage license.
Who Files the Marriage Certificate, and How Do You Get Proof of Marriage?
After your wedding is complete and the documents are prepared and signed, the officiant will handle the filing. Typically, this must occur within ten calendar days. Once that is done, you can order your certified marriage certificate online or purchase one in person at the Clark Country Marriage License Bureau, giving you a document that serves as proof of marriage.
Do you have any other information that can help couples get a Las Vegas marriage license with greater ease? Did you get a marriage license in Las Vegas recently and want to tell others about your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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