How to get married at the courthouse in Minnesota is a common question for couples seeking a low-cost, efficient, and legally binding way to celebrate their union. Whether you’re in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, or a more rural part of the state like Mower County or Beltrami County, Minnesota provides a clear and statewide process to facilitate courthouse weddings. These civil ceremonies are ideal for couples who want a private or minimalist wedding, are planning a later reception, or need to be legally married for tax, legal, or immigration purposes. Getting married at the court in Minnesota offers flexibility and accessibility, with most counties providing easy-to-follow procedures and welcoming judges or court administrators to officiate. This comprehensive guide breaks down the process, legal requirements, and essential considerations to ensure your courthouse wedding in Minnesota goes smoothly and stress-free.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Minnesota
Before you can walk down the courthouse aisle, both individuals must meet specific state requirements to legally marry in Minnesota:
1. Minimum Age Requirement: Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. As of 2023, Minnesota law prohibits marriage for anyone under 18—even with parental or judicial consent—making it one of the more protective states regarding marriage age.
2. Residency Not Required: You do not have to be a Minnesota resident to get married in the state. Couples from other states or countries may apply for a marriage license and marry anywhere in Minnesota, making it a popular destination for elopements and destination weddings.
3. Marriage License Application: Both individuals must apply together in person at any county vital records office or use Minnesota’s online marriage license application system. While you can start the application online, both of you will still need to appear in person to sign the application and provide valid photo ID.
4. Acceptable Identification: A valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport is required for both parties. Social Security numbers must also be provided, if applicable.
5. Marriage License Fee: The marriage license fee in Minnesota is \$115. However, couples who complete 12 hours of premarital education by a qualified provider (including religious or secular counselors) can receive a discounted fee of \$40. Proof must be provided via an official certificate from the instructor.
6. Waiting Period: Minnesota does not require a waiting period after the marriage license is issued, so you can get married the same day you receive the license. This is a major advantage for couples planning spontaneous weddings or elopements.
7. License Validity: Once issued, the marriage license is valid for six months (180 days) and can be used anywhere in the state of Minnesota. If the license expires before the marriage takes place, a new application and fee will be required.
8. No Blood Test Required: Minnesota does not require a blood test or physical examination to marry.
9. Previous Marriages: If either party has previously been married, you must provide the full date of divorce or spouse’s death. Some counties may ask for the divorce decree or death certificate.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Minnesota
1. Apply for a Marriage License at the County Vital Records Office
Start your courthouse marriage in Minnesota by applying for a marriage license. This can be done in person at any county vital records office, such as Hennepin County (Minneapolis), Ramsey County (St. Paul), or Olmsted County (Rochester). You can also begin the process online via the Minnesota Department of Health’s Marriage System, but both individuals must appear in person to finalize the application. Bring valid photo identification and any necessary documents related to prior marriages. If you have completed a premarital education course, bring the signed, notarized completion certificate to qualify for the reduced fee. Pay the appropriate fee based on your situation, and receive your marriage license that same day.
2. Schedule Your Civil Ceremony at the Courthouse
Once you have your marriage license, contact the local county courthouse or judicial district to schedule a civil marriage ceremony. In many counties, judges, court administrators, or appointed officiants are available to perform weddings by appointment. For instance, Hennepin County District Court offers courthouse ceremonies at the Government Center in downtown Minneapolis, usually during weekdays. Each courthouse sets its own scheduling rules, hours, and limits on the number of guests. Ceremony fees typically range from \$25 to \$100, and appointments can often be made online or by phone. Be sure to ask whether they provide a space for the ceremony and whether witnesses are needed (Minnesota requires two witnesses over age 16).
3. Attend the Courthouse Ceremony with Required Documents
On your wedding day, bring your marriage license, valid IDs, and two witnesses (age 16 or older) to the courthouse. You may dress formally or casually depending on your preferences and the setting. Most courthouse ceremonies in Minnesota last between 10 and 20 minutes and include a legal declaration, optional vows, and exchange of rings (if desired). The officiant will review your paperwork, guide you through the ceremony, and ensure all signatures are completed. After the ceremony, the officiant will complete their section of the license and return it to the issuing county office for registration.
4. File the Signed Marriage License
The officiant is responsible for returning your signed marriage license to the county office where it was issued. Some judges or officiants will give the completed license back to the couple to return in person or by mail. Make sure it is filed within the 5-day window (as recommended) to ensure your marriage is properly recorded. Once filed, your marriage is official and recorded in the state system.
5. Order Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
Once the license is filed and recorded, you may order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county where you applied. These documents are necessary to change your last name, update your ID, or apply for benefits. The cost is usually \$9–\$15 per copy, depending on the county. You can order in person, online, or by mail. In Hennepin County, for example, certified copies can be requested through their website or picked up in person at the Vital Records office.
6. Celebrate Your New Legal Status
Though the courthouse ceremony is brief, it marks an important legal milestone. Many Minnesota couples choose to follow up with a dinner, photo shoot, or reception later in the week. Whether you celebrate in downtown Minneapolis, along Lake Superior in Duluth, or in the scenic northwoods, Minnesota offers countless ways to personalize your post-ceremony experience.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Minnesota
1. Location and County Services Vary
Each Minnesota county runs its own vital records and court services. While metro-area counties like Hennepin, Ramsey, and Dakota offer online scheduling and multiple ceremony slots, rural counties may have fewer officiants or longer wait times. It’s essential to contact the local court in advance and confirm availability, fees, and witness policies.
2. Courthouse Weddings Are Affordable
Getting married at the courthouse in Minnesota is one of the most cost-effective options available. Between the \$40–\$115 license fee and a modest ceremony charge, couples can legally marry for under \$150 total. This leaves room in the budget for a honeymoon, house savings, or a future celebration. It’s a wise option for those who want the legal benefits of marriage without the expense of a traditional wedding.
3. Witnesses Are Required by Law
Unlike some states, Minnesota requires two witnesses aged 16 or older to be present at your ceremony. This includes courthouse weddings. If you don’t have family nearby, ask a friend or colleague, or inquire if court staff can serve as witnesses (some may be willing to assist in small ceremonies).
4. Premarital Education Discount Encouraged
Minnesota incentivizes relationship education by offering a \$75 discount on the marriage license fee if couples complete 12 hours of premarital counseling or education. This is valid whether the course is religious or secular, and it must be documented and signed by the instructor. It’s a great option for couples seeking support and tools before marriage.
5. Flexibility for Elopements or Quick Weddings
Because Minnesota does not require a waiting period, couples can apply for and receive a marriage license the same day—and even marry that day if a judge is available. This is especially convenient for military couples, those with travel limitations, or spontaneous elopements. However, you’ll still need to secure two witnesses and a court appointment.
6. Legal and Practical Benefits of Marriage
Even if you’re skipping the big celebration, a courthouse wedding in Minnesota gives you full access to legal rights and benefits—tax advantages, health insurance access, spousal inheritance, immigration petitions, and more. Your courthouse ceremony, while simple, is as legally binding as any other wedding.
Conclusion
If you're wondering how to get married at the courthouse in Minnesota, the answer is refreshingly straightforward. The state offers a user-friendly, cost-effective process that accommodates both residents and out-of-state couples. Whether you're aiming for a practical union, planning a later celebration, or simply want a quick and private ceremony, getting married at the court in Minnesota offers the flexibility and simplicity you need. From obtaining your license and finding an officiant to signing your certificate and celebrating your legal union, the courthouse wedding process is streamlined and stress-free—perfect for couples ready to take the next step without all the fanfare.
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