How to get married in Arkansas is a common question for couples planning to celebrate their love in this charming Southern state known for its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and affordable venues. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic barn wedding in the Ozarks, a romantic ceremony by the Mississippi River, or a quiet courthouse elopement, getting married in Arkansas is a straightforward process with clearly defined legal requirements and multiple ceremony options. The state’s flexible marriage laws, absence of waiting periods, and low application fees make it ideal for both residents and destination couples. However, understanding the paperwork, legal conditions, and the different ways to get married in Arkansas is crucial to ensuring your marriage is legally valid. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process—from obtaining your marriage license to choosing the perfect type of ceremony for your big day.
General Requirements to Get Married in Arkansas
To be legally married in Arkansas, couples must fulfill the following requirements. Each step is essential to ensure that your union is recognized under state law:
1. Minimum Age Requirement:
To marry in Arkansas, both individuals must be at least 18 years old without needing parental consent. If either party is under 18, they may marry only under very strict conditions:
17-year-old females and 16-17-year-old males can marry with written parental or guardian consent.
Judicial approval is also required for minors.
Individuals under the age of 16 are not allowed to marry under any circumstance.
All applicants must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID, to verify their age and identity at the time of applying for the marriage license.
2. Marriage License Application:
The couple must apply in person at any county clerk’s office in Arkansas. Both parties must be physically present. You’ll be required to:
- Complete a marriage license application
- Provide full names, dates of birth, addresses, and Social Security numbers
- State whether either party has been previously married
There is no residency requirement in Arkansas, which means couples from any state—or even from abroad—can legally marry in Arkansas.
3. Marriage License Fee:
The fee for a marriage license in Arkansas is \$60 and must be paid at the time of application. This fee is generally non-refundable. Some counties may accept cash only, while others may take credit/debit cards or money orders, so it’s wise to call ahead.
4. No Waiting Period for Adults:
There is no waiting period in Arkansas for adults 18 and older. You can marry immediately after receiving your license. However, if either party is under 18, a 5-day waiting period applies after obtaining the court order and parental consent.
5. License Validity and Return:
Once issued, the marriage license is valid for 60 days and can be used anywhere within the state. The license must be returned to the county clerk’s office where it was issued within 60 days, whether or not the marriage took place. If not returned, the license expires and is no longer valid.
6. No Blood Test Requirement:
Arkansas does not require blood tests or medical exams to obtain a marriage license, which simplifies the application process.
7. Divorce and Prior Marriages:
If either party was previously married, the date and location of the divorce decree or spouse’s death must be provided on the application. You may also be asked to present proof of finalization, especially if the divorce occurred recently.
All Ways to Get Married in Arkansas
There are several ways to get married in Arkansas, allowing couples to personalize their wedding experience based on tradition, religion, legal simplicity, or scenic preferences. Here are the most common methods explained in detail:
1. Traditional Wedding Ceremony with an Officiant
A traditional wedding ceremony, whether in a church, chapel, or private venue, is the most popular option for getting married in Arkansas. This type of ceremony includes an officiant who leads the exchange of vows and legally validates the union.
Who can officiate a marriage in Arkansas?
- Ordained ministers or religious clergy from any denomination
- Judges or justices of the peace
- Mayors of Arkansas towns and cities
- Any officiant ordained online through legally recognized ministries (such as Universal Life Church)
The officiant must complete and sign the marriage license, along with two adult witnesses (age 18 or older), immediately after the ceremony. They are responsible for returning the license to the issuing county clerk’s office to finalize the marriage.
Traditional weddings can be customized with religious readings, unity rituals, and personal vows, offering a classic yet meaningful experience.
2. Civil Ceremony at the Courthouse
For couples who prefer a quick, affordable, and formal approach, civil ceremonies are available at many Arkansas courthouses. These are officiated by a judge, justice of the peace, or court clerk.
To arrange a courthouse wedding:
i. Schedule an appointment with the court in advance.
ii. Bring your valid marriage license and photo IDs.
iii. Be prepared to pay a ceremony fee (usually \$25–\$50).
Civil ceremonies are simple, efficient, and perfect for elopements or couples seeking a no-frills legal union. They are also a great backup option for last-minute weddings or inclement weather.
3. Religious and Cultural Ceremonies
Arkansas recognizes all religious and cultural marriage ceremonies as long as they are conducted by a legally authorized officiant and follow state legal procedures. This includes:
i. Christian church weddings
ii. Jewish, Islamic, or Hindu ceremonies
iii. Native American or tribal rituals
iv. Interfaith or bilingual ceremonies
These types of weddings can include traditional garments, prayers, and symbolic rituals. Regardless of religious practice, the officiant must ensure the legal paperwork is completed and submitted on time.
4. Outdoor and Destination Weddings in Nature
As the "Natural State," Arkansas is renowned for its picturesque venues—state parks, forests, lakes, and mountain overlooks offer stunning backdrops for an outdoor wedding.
Popular outdoor wedding locations include:
i. Eureka Springs (known for its romantic chapels and Victorian architecture)
ii. Hot Springs National Park
iii. Petit Jean State Park
iv. Buffalo National River
v. Mount Magazine
While Arkansas does not require any special ceremony permits for most public spaces, certain state parks may have event or photography regulations. Be sure to coordinate with park officials or wedding planners familiar with these locations.
Your ceremony must still be conducted by a licensed officiant, and two adult witnesses must be present. Afterward, the signed license must be returned to the county clerk within 60 days.
5. Friend or Family Officiant (Ordained Online)
Arkansas allows friends or family members to officiate a wedding if they are legally ordained, even through online ordination services. This is a popular choice for couples who want a more personal touch during their ceremony.
Steps for having a loved one officiate:
a. Ensure the person is ordained through a recognized ministry.
b. The officiant should familiarize themselves with Arkansas marriage laws.
c. During the ceremony, they must guide the couple through legal vows, sign the marriage license, and return it promptly.
This method allows for a deeply personal and intimate wedding, especially when the officiant knows both parties well.
6. Proxy Marriage (Not Permitted)
Arkansas does not allow proxy marriages. Both individuals must be physically present during the ceremony and capable of giving legal consent. Remote or virtual weddings are not considered legally valid in the state.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married in Arkansas
1. Seasonal Weather and Outdoor Planning
Arkansas has four distinct seasons, and the climate can vary greatly depending on the region. Spring and fall are the most popular wedding seasons, offering mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may bring unpredictable conditions in the northern parts. When planning an outdoor ceremony, consider the weather forecast and always have a backup indoor venue or tent rental ready.
2. Affordable Wedding Options
Compared to many other states, Arkansas offers affordable wedding venues, vendors, and lodging, making it a great option for couples on a budget. From rustic barns to elegant estates, the state has a wide variety of venues that won’t break the bank. Marriage license fees are also low. With some strategic planning, couples can host a beautiful wedding in Arkansas without excessive costs.
3. Marriage Certificate and Name Change
Once your marriage is recorded, you can order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county clerk's office. These documents are necessary for changing your last name, updating financial accounts, or modifying legal identification such as your Social Security card or passport. Most clerks charge a small fee (usually \$5–\$10 per copy), and turnaround time can vary by county.
4. Witness Requirements
Arkansas law requires two witnesses aged 18 or older to sign your marriage license during the ceremony. These can be friends, family, or even strangers in the case of small elopements. If you're planning a destination wedding or eloping alone, make sure to arrange for witnesses in advance. Some venues or officiants may provide witness services if needed.
5. Non-Resident Marriage Options
Arkansas does not require residency to get married. This means out-of-state and international couples can legally marry here with ease. The absence of a waiting period also makes it convenient for spur-of-the-moment weddings. Just remember that the marriage license is only valid in Arkansas and must be returned to the county where it was issued.
6. Inclusivity and Legal Recognition
Arkansas recognizes all legally valid marriages, including same-sex marriages, following the federal legalization in 2015. Interfaith, interracial, and intercultural marriages are also fully supported under state law. Couples from all walks of life are welcome to marry in Arkansas, and the state’s marriage license process makes no distinctions based on religion, orientation, or nationality.
Conclusion
Getting married in Arkansas is a smooth and flexible process, ideal for couples seeking scenic beauty, Southern charm, and a legally straightforward path to marriage. With no waiting period, low fees, and a wide range of ceremony options—from traditional weddings to courthouse elopements—Arkansas makes it easy for lovebirds to say “I do.” Whether you're planning a grand celebration or a simple exchange of vows under the stars, there are plenty of ways to get married in Arkansas to suit your vision. By understanding the legal requirements, choosing a qualified officiant, and preparing for logistical details like witnesses and weather, you’ll ensure your special day goes off without a hitch. From the Ozark Mountains to the Delta plains, Arkansas provides the perfect backdrop for the start of your forever.
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