If you are wondering how to get married in Nebraska, you have chosen a state that offers a straightforward marriage process combined with charming Midwestern hospitality and beautiful venues ranging from urban settings to scenic rural landscapes. Nebraska is known for its friendly communities and diverse options for couples seeking to formalize their union. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or planning a destination wedding, understanding the legal requirements and ways to get married in Nebraska will help ensure your special day is stress-free, lawful, and memorable. This detailed guide covers every essential step from obtaining your marriage license to the various ceremony options and critical considerations for your wedding in Nebraska.
Legal Requirements to Get Married in Nebraska
Before you can legally marry in Nebraska, there are specific requirements that must be fulfilled. These legal prerequisites help protect both parties and ensure your marriage is valid under state law:
1. Marriage License Application:
To get legally married in Nebraska, couples must obtain a marriage license from any county clerk’s office within the state. Both parties are required to appear in person to complete the application. During this process, you will need to provide personal details such as full names, dates of birth, places of birth, social security numbers (if applicable), and valid photo identification like a driver’s license or passport. Nebraska allows you to apply for the license in any county, regardless of where the ceremony will take place or where you reside.
2. Age Requirements and Parental Consent:
The legal age to marry without parental consent is 19 years old in Nebraska, which is notably higher than in many other states. Individuals aged 17 or 18 may marry with parental consent and judicial approval. Anyone under 17 is not permitted to marry under Nebraska law. These regulations emphasize the state’s intent to ensure maturity and voluntariness before entering into marriage.
3. No Residency Requirement:
Nebraska has no residency requirement, so non-residents can obtain a marriage license and marry in the state. This flexibility makes Nebraska an appealing choice for destination weddings or couples from neighboring states.
4. Waiting Period and License Validity:
Nebraska enforces a 3-day waiting period between the issuance of the marriage license and the ceremony, designed to give couples time to consider the commitment they are making. However, this waiting period can be waived by a judge under certain circumstances, such as military deployment or other urgent reasons. Once issued, a marriage license in Nebraska is valid for 6 months, giving ample time to plan and hold your wedding.
5. Identification and Documentation:
When applying, you must present valid, government-issued photo ID to prove your identity. If either party has been previously married, you’ll need to provide the exact date of divorce or death of the previous spouse to verify eligibility. Unlike some states, Nebraska does not require blood tests or medical exams before issuing a license.
6. Fee for Marriage License:
The cost of a marriage license in Nebraska varies by county but generally falls between \$15 and \$25. Fees are payable by cash, check, or credit/debit card depending on the county office. Some counties offer online pre-application forms that can speed up the in-office process.
All Ways to Get Married in Nebraska
Nebraska offers several ways to get married that fit different preferences, from official courthouse ceremonies to outdoor celebrations under the vast Midwestern skies.
1. Civil Ceremony at the Courthouse
A civil ceremony at the county courthouse is one of the most common and accessible ways to get married in Nebraska. After receiving your marriage license, you can schedule a civil ceremony performed by a judge, magistrate, or authorized court official. These ceremonies are usually brief and formal but legally binding, making them perfect for couples who want a straightforward, low-cost wedding without the frills.
2. Religious or Spiritual Ceremony
If you want a more traditional or faith-based ceremony, Nebraska allows marriages to be solemnized by authorized clergy members from any religion, including ministers, priests, rabbis, or imams. Religious ceremonies can be tailored with rituals, readings, and music that reflect your faith, values, and culture. Your officiant must be legally recognized to perform weddings in Nebraska.
3. Officiation by an Ordained Friend or Family Member
Nebraska permits anyone legally ordained or otherwise authorized to officiate weddings, including those ordained online. This means you can choose a close friend or family member to officiate your ceremony, adding a deeply personal and meaningful element to your wedding. The officiant has the legal duty to complete and return the signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office within the required timeframe.
4. Outdoor or Destination Weddings
Nebraska’s landscapes offer stunning settings for getting married in Nebraska outdoors from the rolling sandhills and scenic prairies to urban parks and charming vineyards. Many couples take advantage of public parks, botanical gardens, or private venues with expansive natural beauty for their ceremonies. If marrying on public land, it’s essential to check for any necessary permits or reservations in advance to comply with local regulations.
5. Elopement
Couples seeking an intimate and private wedding often choose to elope in Nebraska. The state’s moderate waiting period and flexible options make elopement a stress-free choice. You can obtain your license and plan a simple ceremony with just the two of you or a small group, often in a courthouse or a picturesque outdoor location.
6. Same-Sex Marriage
Since the nationwide legalization of same-sex marriage in 2015, Nebraska recognizes and supports same-sex marriages fully. Same-sex couples have access to the same marriage license procedures and ceremony options as opposite-sex couples, ensuring equality and inclusivity.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married in Nebraska
When planning your marriage in Nebraska, consider these important factors to make your day smooth and enjoyable:
1. Planning Around the Waiting Period
Nebraska’s three-day waiting period means you cannot marry immediately after receiving your marriage license, unlike some states. If you need to bypass this waiting time due to urgent circumstances, be prepared to seek a judge’s waiver by providing valid reasons. This waiting period is designed to ensure couples have time to thoughtfully confirm their decision.
2. County Clerk Office Locations and Hours
Each Nebraska county clerk’s office operates under different hours and may have unique rules for processing marriage licenses. Some offices require appointments, while others accept walk-ins. Many offer online pre-application forms that reduce your time at the office. Planning your visit in advance and confirming office hours will save time and prevent surprises.
3. Officiant’s Legal Duties
The officiant must complete the marriage license with details of the ceremony and return it to the county clerk’s office within the prescribed deadline, typically within 10 days. Failure to submit the signed license promptly could delay or invalidate your marriage record. Be sure to confirm your officiant understands these responsibilities well before your ceremony.
4. Choosing the Venue and Weather Considerations
Nebraska experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers, cold winters, and moderate spring and fall weather. If you plan an outdoor wedding, it’s important to consider the time of year and have backup plans for inclement weather. Popular outdoor venues, especially public parks, may require permits or have restrictions on size and activities, so early coordination is key.
5. Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
After the marriage license is returned and recorded, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate. These certified documents are often required for name changes, legal documentation, and insurance updates. Nebraska counties typically charge a fee of around \$10–\$15 per copy. Ordering several copies at once can be practical and cost-effective.
6. Legal and Financial Implications of Marriage
Marriage affects property rights, taxes, insurance, and healthcare decisions. Nebraska is an equitable distribution state for property division upon divorce, meaning assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Understanding these implications and consulting with legal or financial advisors can help couples prepare for the legal and financial responsibilities that come with marriage.
In Summary
Learning how to get married in Nebraska helps you confidently navigate the legal steps and plan your perfect wedding day in a state known for its warm hospitality and beautiful venues. Nebraska offers a clear and manageable marriage license process, multiple ceremony options, and plenty of flexibility for couples whether you want a simple courthouse wedding or a picturesque outdoor celebration. Knowing the waiting period, age requirements, and officiant responsibilities will ensure your marriage is legally recognized and stress-free. With thoughtful preparation and an understanding of Nebraska’s unique legal framework, your wedding day will be a joyful and lasting start to your new life together.
