Are you planning on getting married in the wedding capital of the world? If so, you will need to apply for a Las Vegas marriage license. This process can be a little confusing if you have never applied for one before, and because of this, Always & Forever Weddings and Receptions has created a detailed post that will provide you with the helpful information needed to file for your marriage license – from where to apply to who files the license after your married, and everything in between!
Las Vegas Marriage License 101
The marriage capital of the world is known for its streamlined process when it comes to having a large, or small wedding ceremony, especially a wedding for two, and this easy process also applies to obtaining a marriage license in this city. However, although streamlined, when filing for a marriage license, there are still things you need to spend time doing such as gathering required documents, making sure you have certain personal information on hand, and so on.
This little document is extremely important, and without it, you can’t get married in the Las Vegas area. With that in mind, let’s dive in to go over all the essential details so you can file for your marriage license with no problems.
Marriage License Eligibility Requirements for Clark County NV
First things first, you will need to determine that you’re eligible to apply for a marriage license for your Las Vegas wedding ceremony. This is important because imagine making big plans to get married near the Vegas Strip, only to find out down the line that you’re not eligible to get married in the state of Nevada. That said, read over the following details so you’re armed with the information needed to determine if you’re eligible or not.
- Typically, those applying for a Las Vegas marriage license will need to be 18 years of age. There is an exception though, residents of Clark County who are 17 may file for a license if they obtain a court order beforehand from a judge.
- As in most counties, your intended spouse-to-be must not be nearer to kin than second cousins or cousins of half-blood.
- You’re not eligible to file for a license if you’re still married to another person. This also means that if you’re just legally separate, you may not file.
- It’s also worth noting that if you’re not a US citizen, you must still abide by all the requirements as a US citizen would. Please view the official requirements page for all the specifics.
The Marriage License Bureau is Where the Application is Filed
When it’s time for you to apply for your Las Vegas marriage license, you can do so within Clark County at the Marriage License Bureau. However, you won’t have to apply in person, it can be easily done online with this marriage license application. Once your application is submitted, it will remain in their database for one year, which is great because you can apply early to get it out of the way.
It’s important that you and your future spouse both fill out your own information, and to double check that the name you fill out is exactly the same as the identification you will be providing. So, be sure to check if you need to add your middle name. Also, after it’s filled out, it’s crucial that you read through the license application to scan for typos, as this can delay the processing, as well as cost you extra money if the marriage license needs to be corrected.
Pick Up Your License at the Same Location
After your application has been submitted, you will be provided with a confirmation number that’s required when you go to pick up your license – this should only take about one hour or under. So, where exactly do you go to pick up your license?
You can also head over to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau page for more details on their location and contact info.
Documents You Will Need if Getting Married in Las Vegas
In order to apply for a marriage license in Las Vegas, you will need to provide certain documents and information. To ensure you bring what’s needed, we will outline the documents you should have on hand when you go to the Marriage License Bureau. Keep in mind that requirements may vary if changes take place to their policies, so it’s always best to check with their office beforehand.
When applying for a marriage license in Las Vegas, you will need to provide:
- A valid photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card.
- Proof of your age (couples typically use a birth certificate). Foreign birth certificates are required to be translated into English, and this must be done by a translator who is certified, and it’s required that it be signed, and notarized with the translator’s name.
- Proof of residency (if you’re not a resident of Nevada, you will need to show proof of residency in another state or country).
- Make sure you bring along your social security number if you don’t have it memorized.
Marriage License Fees
As for the cost, you will be asked to pay a $102 fee if paying by cash. You can also pay by credit card, but there will be an additional fee. For more information, head over to their fee page, or take a look at the quick pricing guide below:
Common Questions Regarding the Marriage License Application Process
Filing for a license to get married in Las Vegas can be intimidating for some, but we are here to make it easier on you. With that said, we are providing you with two of our most common questions – who needs to be present when picking up your marriage license, and who files the license once you’re married? Also, if you have any other questions, we recommend calling the Clark County Marriage License Bureau directly.
Do both parties need to be present when picking up your Las Vegas marriage license?
Both the bride and groom need to be present when picking up your marriage license. This is a requirement set by the state of Nevada. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule which we will discuss. If one party is in prison within the state of NV, the following Affidavit must be filled out – Affidavit for Issuance of Marriage License to One Party. The other exception is when one party is hospitalized. If this is the case, then a statement from the patient’s physician on letterhead is required, and the following hospitalization Affidavit must be filled out.
Who files the marriage license with the county after we are married?
When you get married in Las Vegas, who files the marriage license with the court? This is an important question to ask because it deals with ensuring your marriage is legally binding. Here is a short overview to explain further – after you get married in Las Vegas, it’s the responsibility of the person who officiated your marriage to file the marriage license with the court. This is typically done within a few days after the wedding, but by law, it must be filed within 10 days. Once the license is filed, it becomes a public record and your marriage is legally binding. That said, make sure to ask your officiant about their policy on filing marriage licenses.
Always & Forever Resources for Your Wedding Ceremony and Reception
Providing information on how to apply for a Las Vegas marriage license is just one small aspect of what we can help you with. Because we are a full-service wedding venue, we have many pages that pertain to getting married in the Las Vegas area. This includes information on all inclusive packages, wedding flowers, as well as outdoor wedding venues, and more, as seen below.
So, be sure to take a moment to jump into the following pages so you can start the planning process sooner rather than later!
- Take a look at our wedding cakes to see what you have to look forward to during your reception.
- planning a wedding reception
- Do you know who pays for what for a ceremony and reception? If not, you should take a look at this post.
- If you’re not sure if you should have an open bar at your reception, this article on the topic can help.
- When you book a Las Vegas wedding package at Always & Forever, you will be provided with a professional photographer.
- Our reception hall packages are by far the best in the Las Vegas area!
- Make sure you do your research when it comes to wedding day transportation so you book the right vehicle.
- Are you aware of the most popular wedding traditions out there? For those who want to learn more about them, then check out this post.
- A maid of honor speech can be difficult to write if you don’t have some help, so make sure to get the facts from this article on the subject!
- Are you having a hard time choosing your bridesmaids? You’re not alone – so be sure to take a look at this post for helpful tips.
- We specialize in stunning lake weddings and offer affordable packages to meet your needs.
- Check out our bridal hair & makeup informational page so you’re ahead of the game.
- If you need a marriage license for a ceremony only affair, we have outstanding packages!
- Those interested in an indoor wedding should read all about our Lakeview Chapel.
- Have a romantic gazebo wedding near the Vegas Strip for an unforgettable day.
- We offer reception only packages at our full-service wedding venue!
- Here’s a helpful post on how to use wedding flowers in your ceremony and reception.
- If you’re having an evening wedding, you will want to learn more about how to plan for one by reading this post.
- Find out about our fabulous Las Vegas outdoor wedding packages by visiting this page.
- You should consider having a sunset wedding near the Vegas Strip – learn more.
- Having a mid-sized wedding with 50 guests – get some tips on how to make it a success.
- Make sure to use a professional wedding photographer – find out why it’s important.
- It can be difficult to decide if you should use a DJ or live music, but this article can give you the right advice.
- Not sure which bridal updo hairstyle to wear, we can help you figure it out.
File for Your Marriage License and Have a Fabulous Wedding Near Downtown Las Vegas
Now that you know the ins and outs of filing for a marriage license in Clark County, you will be able to start the application process! Remember, it’s good for a full year, so that gives you plenty of time to put your Las Vegas wedding together! We are here for you to help along the way, no matter what type of wedding ceremony your planning – an all inclusive affair or a ceremony only event! Also, our wedding coordinators are available to answer your questions, so be sure to reach out to us at (702) 318-5683.