Michigan Marriage License

Before your wedding ceremony can take place in the state of Michigan, a valid marriage license is required.

Where to Apply

Michigan residents apply through the County Clerk’s Office in the county where either applicant resides.

Out-of-State residents apply through the County Clerk’s Office in the county where the ceremony will be performed.

Each county has its own process and requirements, so it’s best to contact the clerk directly for the most accurate information.

When to Apply

Couples may apply no more than 33 days before the wedding date.

There is a 3-day waiting period between applying and when the license is issued.

Some counties allow this waiting period to be waived for an additional fee. Check with your county clerk for details.

Expiration & Validity

Once issued, a Michigan marriage license is valid for 33 days.

Your ceremony must take place within that 33-day window and within the state of Michigan.

Licenses issued in one county are valid anywhere in Michigan (for residents), unless otherwise noted by the county clerk.

Required Documents

When applying, couples will typically need to provide:

Valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or state ID)

Certified birth certificate or proof of citizenship

Social Security number (if applicable)

Application fee (varies by county, usually between $20–$35 for residents and $30–$50 for non-residents)

Note that some counties allow online applications; others require both applicants to appear in person.

During the Ceremony

The original marriage license and its copies must be present at the ceremony location before a wedding ceremony can be performed.

Your license must be signed by:

Both members of the couple

The Officiant/Minister

Two witnesses who are at least 18 years of age

After the Ceremony

Per Michigan law, the Officiant/Minister is legally responsible for filing the signed license with the issuing County Clerk’s Office within 10 days of the ceremony.

Certified Copies

A Certified Copy of your marriage license is required for official name changes (Social Security, DMV, passport, banks, etc.).

Some counties (like Kent and Ottawa) may automatically issue one certified copy after filing, but most do not.

Couples must request and pay for certified copies directly through the County Clerk’s Office where the license was issued.

Copies can usually be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Please wait at least 10 days after your license has been filed before requesting a certified copy.