How to get married in Arizona is a common question for couples drawn to the state’s desert beauty, historic landmarks, and marriage-friendly laws. Whether you're planning a romantic elopement in Sedona, a traditional church wedding in Phoenix, or a scenic ceremony overlooking the Grand Canyon, Arizona offers flexibility and accessibility for all kinds of couples. With straightforward requirements and multiple ways to hold your ceremony, getting married in Arizona can be both simple and memorable. However, like any legal process, it requires attention to deadlines, paperwork, and procedures to ensure your marriage is officially recognized. This comprehensive guide covers all legal requirements, the different ways to get married in Arizona, and key considerations for planning your dream wedding in the Southwest.
General Requirements to Get Married in Arizona
To legally marry in Arizona, you must meet specific requirements set by state law. Here are the full details:
1. Minimum Age Requirement - The minimum legal age to marry in Arizona is 18 years old. Individuals who are 16 or 17 years old may marry with the written consent of a parent or legal guardian and judicial approval. Those under 16 are not permitted to marry under any circumstances. All applicants must provide valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, state ID card, or military ID, to verify age and identity.
2. Marriage License Application - Couples must apply in person at any Arizona county clerk’s office or clerk of the superior court. Both parties must be present to complete the application. You’ll need to provide:
- Full legal names
- Birthplaces
- Social Security Numbers (if applicable)
- Previous marriage information (if either party was previously married)
There is no residency requirement, so out-of-state and international couples are welcome to marry in Arizona.
3. Marriage License Fee - The marriage license fee in Arizona is \$83, payable at the time of application. Most county offices accept cash, credit cards, or money orders. This fee is non-refundable and applies even if the ceremony is not conducted.
4. No Waiting Period - Arizona has no waiting period, which means your marriage license is issued immediately and you can marry on the same day. This makes Arizona a popular choice for spontaneous elopements and destination weddings.
5. License Validity and Return - Once issued, the marriage license is valid for 12 months anywhere within the state. After your ceremony, the officiant and both witnesses must sign the license, which must be returned to the same county clerk’s office within 30 days of the ceremony for official registration. You can request certified copies of the marriage certificate after it's filed for legal name changes and documentation.
6. No Blood Test Requirement - Arizona does not require a blood test or medical examination to obtain a marriage license.
All Ways to Get Married in Arizona
There are several ways to get married in Arizona, each with specific legal and ceremonial requirements:
1. Traditional Ceremony with an Officiant
The most common way to get married in Arizona is through a traditional ceremony conducted by a licensed officiant. This can be religious or non-religious and held at any venue of your choice.
Who can officiate a wedding in Arizona?
i. Ministers, priests, rabbis, and clergy from any recognized religious denomination
ii. Judges or magistrates
iii. Mayors or court commissioners
iv. Licensed officiants (including those ordained online, which is legal in Arizona)
After the ceremony, the officiant will complete and sign the marriage license, along with two adult witnesses (age 18+). The license is then submitted to the county for registration.
2. Civil Ceremony at a Courthouse
Arizona offers civil marriage ceremonies at local courthouses, usually conducted by a judge or justice of the peace. You’ll need to:
i. Schedule an appointment (availability may vary by county)
ii. Bring your valid marriage license and government-issued IDs
iii. Pay a small ceremony fee (usually around \$60–\$100)
Civil ceremonies are short, formal, and ideal for couples who prefer a legally binding yet low-key wedding. It's a popular option for elopements or second marriages.
3. Religious or Cultural Ceremonies
Many couples choose to integrate religious or cultural traditions into their ceremony. In Arizona, you’re free to tailor the wedding to your beliefs as long as the officiant is legally recognized by the state. You can marry in a church, synagogue, mosque, or temple, or host a traditional Navajo, Catholic, Jewish, or Hindu ceremony. Regardless of the cultural format, the legal marriage license must still be signed and returned for the marriage to be official.
4. Outdoor or Destination Weddings
Arizona’s iconic landscapes—like Sedona’s red rocks, the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and desert gardens—make it a top destination for outdoor weddings. You can get married at state parks, resorts, mountainsides, or even helicopter-accessible canyons.
Legal requirements:
i. Obtain the marriage license beforehand.
ii. Ensure your officiant is licensed in Arizona.
iii. Have two adult witnesses.
iv. Return the signed license to the county within 30 days.
Some parks or locations may require special event permits, so check with the venue or governing agency well in advance.
5. Friend or Family Member as Officiant
Arizona allows friends or family members to officiate weddings as long as they are ordained. Many online ministries like Universal Life Church provide free or low-cost ordination that’s legally recognized in Arizona. This allows you to personalize your ceremony by involving someone you trust.
Be sure your officiant:
i. Understands Arizona’s legal requirements
ii. Fills out and signs the marriage license correctly
iii. Submits the license on time
6. Proxy Marriage (Not Allowed)
Arizona does not permit proxy marriages. Both individuals must be physically present at the ceremony and give consent in person.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married in Arizona
1. Desert Climate and Wedding Season
Arizona’s weather varies significantly by region. The desert areas (like Phoenix and Tucson) can exceed 110°F in summer, while the northern areas (like Flagstaff) offer cooler mountain climates. The best wedding seasons are spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) due to milder temperatures. Avoid peak summer unless your venue has indoor or shaded areas. Always have a weather contingency plan, especially for outdoor weddings.
2. Legal Witness Requirements
Arizona law requires two witnesses aged 18 or older to be present at your wedding ceremony and sign the marriage license. Witnesses do not need to be residents of Arizona or related to you. If you’re eloping or traveling from out of state, consider hiring professional witnesses or asking venue staff. Without valid witness signatures, your marriage cannot be legally recorded. Double-check all signatures before returning the license.
3. Travel and Accessibility
Arizona is a popular destination wedding state with easy access through major airports in Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff. Many scenic wedding venues are located in remote or rural areas, so plan transportation for guests and vendors. Some areas, especially tribal lands or national parks, may require special permissions. Consider booking local vendors familiar with the region’s logistics and legal requirements.
4. Marriage License Location and Return
You can get your marriage license in any Arizona county, regardless of where your ceremony will be held. However, the signed license must be returned to the same county office where it was issued within 30 days of the ceremony. Failing to return the license can result in delays or an unregistered marriage. Some counties allow the officiant to return the license by mail or in person.
5. Name Change Process After Marriage
After your marriage is registered, you can obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate for legal name changes. These are used to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and other official records. Certified copies are available from the clerk’s office for a small fee (typically \$30 or less per copy). Be sure to request multiple copies for different agencies and allow time for processing.
6. Inclusivity and Legal Protections
Arizona recognizes all legal marriages, including same-sex marriages, following the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision. The state does not impose any gender-specific restrictions, and all couples are entitled to equal marriage rights. Interfaith and interracial marriages are also legally protected. Arizona is an inclusive state where love and commitment are honored across all cultures, backgrounds, and orientations.
Conclusion
Getting married in Arizona is an exciting journey that combines scenic beauty with legal simplicity. With no waiting period, no residency requirement, and multiple ceremony options, couples can plan their wedding with ease and flexibility. Whether you're drawn to the natural grandeur of the Grand Canyon, the spiritual energy of Sedona, or the urban charm of Phoenix, there are countless ways to get married in Arizona that fit your vision and budget. By understanding the legal requirements, securing the right officiant, and ensuring proper documentation, your Arizona wedding will be both legally binding and personally meaningful. With thoughtful preparation and creativity, your special day in the Grand Canyon State will be one to remember forever.
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