How to get married at the courthouse in Missouri is a question that often arises for couples who are looking for a straightforward, affordable, and legally valid option for tying the knot. Whether you're in bustling Kansas City, historic St. Louis, the state capital of Jefferson City, or a quiet rural area like Howell or Nodaway County, Missouri offers a clear and convenient process for courthouse weddings. Many couples choose getting married at the courthouse in Missouri as a practical alternative to expensive traditional weddings, or as a simple legal ceremony before a later celebration. The state’s marriage laws are uniform, but the process may differ slightly by county, so knowing the step-by-step procedures is essential for a smooth experience. This in-depth guide will walk you through all the legal requirements, procedural steps, and important considerations so that getting married at the court in Missouri is a confident and stress-free experience.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Missouri
Before you can have a courthouse wedding in Missouri, you must meet the legal eligibility requirements for obtaining a marriage license and having your union recognized by the state:
1. Age Requirement: To legally marry in Missouri without parental consent, both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If one or both parties are 17 years old, marriage is only permitted if the older party is no more than four years older, and written consent is provided by a parent or legal guardian. Missouri law prohibits marriage for individuals under 17 under any circumstances. Proof of age is required through government-issued identification or a certified birth certificate.
2. Residency Not Required: Missouri does not require applicants to be state residents to obtain a marriage license or marry in the state. Out-of-state and international couples can get legally married in Missouri, which makes it a convenient location for elopements or destination courthouse weddings.
3. In-Person Application: Both parties must appear in person at any Missouri County Recorder of Deeds Office to apply for a marriage license. Online applications may be available in some counties to start the process, but in-person appearance is still required to present identification and sign the application.
4. Valid Identification: A valid government-issued photo ID is required for both applicants. This includes a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card. Some counties may also request proof of Social Security numbers, though this is not required statewide.
5. Marriage License Fee: The cost for a marriage license in Missouri typically ranges from \$45 to \$60, depending on the county. The fee must be paid at the time of application, and most counties accept cash, debit/credit cards, or money orders. Always check with the specific county office ahead of time to confirm the accepted payment methods.
6. No Blood Test or Waiting Period: Missouri does not require a blood test, physical exam, or waiting period for marriage. This means couples can obtain their license and be married on the same day, which is ideal for last-minute plans or simple elopements.
7. Marriage License Validity: Once issued, the marriage license is valid immediately and remains valid for 30 days. If the couple does not marry within that time frame, the license will expire, and they will need to reapply and pay the fee again.
8. Previous Marriages: If either applicant has been previously married, they must provide the exact date the previous marriage ended, whether by divorce or death. Some counties may request documentation, such as a divorce decree or death certificate, especially if the previous marriage ended recently.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Missouri
1. Visit the Recorder of Deeds Office to Apply for a Marriage License
The first step in getting married at the courthouse in Missouri is to obtain your marriage license. This can be done at any Recorder of Deeds Office, which operates at the county level. For instance, couples in St. Louis County can apply at the St. Louis County Government Center, while those in Jackson County can go to the downtown Kansas City office. Both applicants must be present with valid identification, and the process typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Some counties offer the ability to fill out a pre-application online to speed things up, but both parties still need to appear in person to finalize it. Once your documents and payment are processed, you’ll receive your marriage license on the spot. This license can be used for a courthouse wedding or a private ceremony anywhere in Missouri.
2. Schedule Your Courthouse Ceremony with the Appropriate Court or Judge
After obtaining your license, the next step is to arrange your courthouse wedding. In Missouri, these ceremonies are typically performed by a judge, associate circuit judge, or municipal court judge, depending on the county. Call your local circuit court or municipal court to inquire about civil marriage ceremonies. In counties like Boone or Greene, judges may perform weddings during lunch breaks or in the early afternoon, while larger counties like St. Charles or Jackson may have scheduled time blocks for multiple weddings. Some counties charge a small ceremony fee (usually between \$10 and \$60), and others allow you to tip the judge at your discretion. Be sure to ask whether they provide witnesses (Missouri requires two witnesses, age 18 or older) or if you must bring your own.
3. Show Up Prepared on Your Wedding Day
On the day of your scheduled ceremony, make sure to arrive early at the courthouse with your marriage license, photo IDs, and two adult witnesses. Dress is usually semi-formal or business casual, but some couples choose to dress up more formally for the occasion. You may bring a few guests if the courthouse allows it, though space and policies vary by location. The ceremony itself is usually short—typically around 10 to 15 minutes—and may include standard vows or allow for a short personalized exchange. The officiating judge will sign the license immediately following the ceremony, making your marriage official. Some couples choose to have photographs taken outside the courthouse to commemorate the moment.
4. File Your Signed Marriage License
After your ceremony, the signed marriage license must be returned to the Recorder of Deeds Office that issued it. In most cases, the officiant will handle this, but in some counties, couples are expected to file it themselves. Filing must occur within the 30-day validity window of the license. Once the license is filed and recorded, your marriage becomes a matter of public record and is legally recognized by the State of Missouri.
5. Order Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
To legally prove your marriage and update your name or marital status with banks, insurance providers, or government agencies, you’ll need certified copies of your marriage certificate. These can be ordered from the Recorder of Deeds in the county where your license was filed. The cost typically ranges from \$9 to \$15 per copy, and you can usually request them in person, by mail, or online. It’s wise to order at least two certified copies for future use, especially if you’ll be applying for immigration benefits or name changes.
6. Celebrate Your Marriage, Big or Small
Once your courthouse wedding is complete and your marriage is legally registered, the celebration is entirely up to you. Many Missouri couples follow up a courthouse wedding with a dinner at a favorite restaurant in Columbia, a romantic weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks, or a larger wedding reception scheduled later. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small circle of close friends and family, a courthouse ceremony in Missouri offers a simple, heartfelt way to start your marriage journey.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Missouri
1. Courthouse Weddings Are Affordable and Accessible
The cost of a courthouse wedding in Missouri is significantly lower than a traditional wedding, often totaling under \$100 including the license, ceremony, and certificate. This makes it ideal for young couples, military spouses, and those saving for other life goals. Missouri’s no-wait policy also adds convenience, especially for those needing a quick legal marriage.
2. Flexibility for All Types of Couples
Whether you're planning a spontaneous elopement, a legal marriage before a larger celebration, or a quiet union with just a few guests, Missouri’s courthouse system accommodates many preferences. There’s no dress code or formal requirements for guests, and couples have the flexibility to include personal touches like vows, rings, or brief readings in some courts.
3. Every County Has Slightly Different Procedures
Although Missouri’s marriage laws are consistent statewide, each county has its own administrative process for courthouse weddings. Some offer online scheduling or accept digital documents, while others still use paper applications. It’s important to call ahead to your chosen county’s courthouse or Recorder’s office to verify hours, fees, requirements, and ceremony availability.
4. Witnesses Are Required by Law
Unlike some states, Missouri requires two witnesses who are at least 18 years old to be present and sign the marriage license at the time of the ceremony. These witnesses are essential, and you’ll need to plan ahead to bring them with you. In rare cases, courthouse staff may agree to serve as witnesses, but this is not guaranteed and should be arranged in advance.
5. A Courthouse Wedding Is Legally Equal to Any Other
A marriage conducted at a Missouri courthouse carries the same legal weight as one performed in a church, on a mountaintop, or in a banquet hall. Your rights, responsibilities, and benefits as a married couple begin as soon as the license is filed and certified. It’s a great reminder that the legality and commitment of marriage are not tied to the size of the ceremony.
6. Consider Timing and Scheduling Around Holidays
Missouri courthouses are typically open Monday through Friday, and many are closed on state holidays or for special events. If you're planning a courthouse wedding near a federal or state holiday (like Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, or Labor Day), make sure to confirm hours well in advance. Judges may also have limited availability during election periods, jury weeks, or special sessions.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get married at the courthouse in Missouri is essential for couples who want a smooth, affordable, and legally valid path to matrimony. Whether you're local residents or coming from out of state, Missouri offers a streamlined and accessible process that respects your time and commitment. From obtaining your marriage license at the Recorder of Deeds to scheduling your ceremony with a local judge, each step is simple and well-supported by county offices. Getting married at the courthouse in Missouri is not only legally binding but emotionally meaningful—offering couples a chance to begin their life together with clarity, joy, and minimal stress. No matter where you choose to marry—from a grand courtroom in downtown St. Louis to a quiet judge’s chambers in rural Pettis County—getting married at the court in Missouri is a modern, inclusive, and memorable option for any couple.
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