How to get married at the courthouse in Louisiana is a question many couples ask when planning a simple, cost-effective, and legally recognized ceremony. Courthouse weddings are a popular choice across the state—from New Orleans and Baton Rouge to smaller parishes like Lafayette or Terrebonne—thanks to Louisiana’s accessible marriage laws and diverse courthouse services. Whether you're a Louisiana native or an out-of-state couple drawn to the charm of cities like Shreveport or Lake Charles, the process remains largely the same across parishes, with slight differences in ceremony options and license policies. Getting married at the courthouse in Louisiana is a smart choice for couples seeking efficiency, legality, and the ability to personalize later celebrations. This guide offers everything you need to know—requirements, procedures, local tips, and important things to consider—to make your courthouse wedding in Louisiana smooth and stress-free.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Louisiana
Before getting married at the court in Louisiana, couples must meet a specific set of requirements set by state and parish laws. Below are the key rules you must follow:
1. Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Seventeen-year-olds may marry with judicial approval and parental consent, but they cannot marry anyone who is three or more years older.
2. Valid Identification: A government-issued photo ID is required for both parties—acceptable forms include a driver's license, passport, or military ID. Some parishes may also ask for a certified copy of your birth certificate.
3. Marriage License: Couples must apply for a marriage license at any Clerk of Court office in Louisiana. You do not have to be a resident of Louisiana to obtain a marriage license or get married in the state.
4. 72-Hour Waiting Period: Louisiana enforces a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between receiving the license and the ceremony. Judges in some parishes, like Orleans Parish, can waive this waiting period for good cause, such as military deployment or scheduling constraints.
5. No Blood Test Required: As of 1988, Louisiana no longer requires a blood test to marry, which simplifies the process.
6. License Expiration: The marriage license is valid for 30 days and must be used within that time in the state of Louisiana.
7. Application Fee: The cost for a marriage license ranges from \$25 to \$40 depending on the parish, plus possible notary and copy fees. For example, Orleans Parish charges \$27.50 for the license and additional fees for certified copies.
8. Previous Marriages: If either person has been previously married, documentation of divorce or death of the prior spouse is required, including dates and locations. Some parishes may ask for the final divorce decree.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Louisiana
1. Apply for a Marriage License at the Clerk of Court Office
The first step in getting married at the courthouse in Louisiana is to apply for a marriage license in the parish where you intend to marry or reside. Both individuals must appear in person to complete the application. In Orleans Parish, for instance, you can visit the Marriage License Office on Poydras Street in New Orleans. You will need photo ID, Social Security numbers, and in some parishes, certified birth certificates. After completing the forms and paying the required fee, you'll receive your license. Keep in mind the 72-hour waiting period, unless waived.
2. Request a Waiver of the 72-Hour Waiting Period (Optional)
If you're planning to marry quickly, you may be able to request a waiver of the 72-hour wait. This is especially useful for out-of-state couples coming to Louisiana for a destination wedding or military personnel on leave. The waiver must be granted by a judge in the parish where the license is issued. For example, in Orleans Parish, many judges are accustomed to approving such waivers for couples planning short stays. However, each parish has its own process, so it’s crucial to check in advance. Having this waiver can allow you to marry the same day you receive your license.
3. Schedule a Civil Ceremony with the Courthouse or a Judge
Unlike some states, not all Louisiana courthouses offer in-house civil ceremonies. In most cases, you’ll need to schedule your ceremony with a city judge, justice of the peace, or other officiant. For example, in East Baton Rouge Parish, you may need to reach out to a local justice of the peace who performs courthouse weddings by appointment. In Jefferson Parish, several court judges perform weddings, but appointments are often required. Always ask whether witnesses are needed, and confirm ceremony fees, which vary. Most civil ceremonies are short but meaningful, lasting about 10–15 minutes.
4. Attend Your Courthouse Wedding Ceremony
On your scheduled wedding day, arrive at the courthouse or judge’s chambers at least 15 minutes early. Bring your marriage license, valid IDs, and any required witnesses (some judges may ask for one or two). Dress appropriately—while formalwear isn’t required, many couples wear dressy casual or semi-formal clothing. The officiant will perform a brief ceremony, guiding you through your vows and witnessing your legal commitment. After the ceremony, the judge or officiant signs the license and returns it to the Clerk of Court. For instance, couples getting married in Lafayette often walk out of the courthouse married within half an hour.
5. Record the Marriage and Obtain Certified Copies
Once your ceremony is complete, the signed marriage license must be filed with the Clerk of Court in the issuing parish. Only then is the marriage legally recognized in Louisiana and beyond. You will need certified copies of the marriage certificate for name changes, immigration applications, and legal documents. The fee for each certified copy typically ranges from \$5 to \$10. In Orleans and other parishes, you can order these online or request them in person. Processing times vary, but most offices issue certificates within a few business days.
6. Begin Post-Marriage Legal Updates (Optional Name Change)
If either spouse chooses to change their last name, you'll use the certified marriage certificate to update official documents. Begin with the Social Security Administration, followed by the Louisiana DMV to update your driver’s license. Then notify your employer, bank, insurance providers, and other institutions. This process can take several weeks depending on agency turnaround times. Make sure to request multiple copies of your certificate to avoid delays.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Louisiana
1. Parish-by-Parish Variations
In Louisiana, many aspects of the marriage process depend on the specific parish. Some parishes, like Orleans or Jefferson, have well-developed systems for courthouse weddings with available judges and easy waiver options. Others, such as rural parishes like Avoyelles or Franklin, may require you to find your own officiant and schedule separately. Always contact the local Clerk of Court in advance to understand requirements and availability. This ensures you avoid surprises and can plan more efficiently.
2. Cultural and Historical Ambiance
Louisiana is rich in culture, from the French Quarter in New Orleans to the bayous of Lafayette. While the courthouse process is legal and administrative, many couples add local flavor by celebrating afterward with Cajun food, jazz music, or a stroll through historic neighborhoods. Even a small ceremony can be paired with a uniquely Louisiana celebration. Whether you marry at a courthouse in Shreveport or a judge's office in St. Tammany Parish, the cultural options are endless.
3. Weekend and Holiday Limitations
Most Louisiana courthouses are only open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Judges may perform weddings outside those hours, but availability varies and often requires an extra fee. If you plan to marry on a weekend or holiday, especially around Mardi Gras or festival weekends, schedule well in advance. Parishes like Orleans may have limited staff during such events, so flexibility is key. Check courthouse calendars online or call ahead to avoid conflicts.
4. Availability of Judges and Justices of the Peace
Not all Louisiana courthouses have judges available to perform weddings on demand. Some parishes, like St. Bernard or Plaquemines, require that you schedule a judge separately and may have limited appointment slots. In these cases, hiring a local justice of the peace or notary public may be your best option. Always verify that your chosen officiant is legally authorized to conduct marriages in Louisiana. This ensures your marriage is legally valid and correctly recorded.
5. Out-of-State Couples Are Welcome
Many non-residents choose to marry in Louisiana, especially in New Orleans, due to the state’s romantic reputation and flexible laws. No residency is required, and licenses are honored statewide. However, out-of-state couples must remember the 72-hour waiting period unless waived and should plan accordingly. Bringing all required documentation—especially birth certificates and divorce decrees—is essential to avoid delays.
6. Simplicity with Legal Validity
Courthouse weddings in Louisiana offer a straightforward path to legal marriage. For couples uninterested in elaborate ceremonies, it provides a stress-free and fully recognized method. Whether you're marrying for love, legal reasons, or both, the simplicity of the process appeals to many modern couples. With minimal paperwork and affordable fees, it remains one of the most practical options in the state.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get married at the courthouse in Louisiana is essential for couples looking for a no-fuss, legally binding wedding ceremony. With a clear application process, modest fees, and accessible courthouse locations across parishes, it’s a highly convenient option. Whether you're in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, or a small-town parish, getting married at the court in Louisiana can be as simple or special as you choose. Make sure to follow all state and local guidelines, prepare your paperwork carefully, and confirm any ceremony requirements in advance. With the right planning, getting married at the courthouse in Louisiana can be a meaningful and efficient beginning to your married life.
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