How to get married at the courthouse in Michigan is a question many couples ask when seeking a practical, affordable, and legally recognized way to tie the knot. Whether you reside in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, or in one of Michigan’s smaller counties like Alpena or Calhoun, the state provides a clear and accessible process for civil marriages through its local courthouses and probate courts. Getting married at the courthouse in Michigan is ideal for couples who want to avoid the stress and high cost of a traditional wedding or are looking for a private legal ceremony before hosting a celebration later. With its streamlined procedure, low fees, and accommodating county clerks, Michigan makes the courthouse wedding process relatively straightforward. In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know about filing for a marriage license, planning your ceremony, and legally getting married at the court in Michigan.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Michigan
Before scheduling a courthouse wedding, both partners must meet the following legal requirements set by the state of Michigan:
1. Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Individuals aged 16 or 17 can marry with written consent from a parent or legal guardian, and in some cases, with court approval. Anyone under 16 cannot legally marry in Michigan.
2. Residency Requirement: If at least one party is a resident of Michigan, the couple must apply for their marriage license in the county where the resident lives. If both partners are from out of state, they must apply in the county where the wedding will take place. For example, if you live in Oakland County, you must apply there—even if you’re marrying in Wayne County.
3. Valid Identification: Both applicants must provide valid, government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport. Additional documents may be required, such as Social Security numbers or birth certificates, depending on the county.
4. Marriage License Fee: The marriage license fee varies by county. It typically ranges from \$20 to \$30 for Michigan residents and up to \$30 to \$40 for out-of-state applicants. Payment methods vary, so check with your local county clerk’s office.
5. Three-Day Waiting Period: There is a mandatory three-day waiting period from the time you apply for a marriage license until you can use it. Some counties may waive this period for a fee in emergency cases (e.g., military deployment or travel).
6. License Validity: Once issued, the marriage license is valid for 33 days and can only be used within the state of Michigan. After the license expires, a new application must be submitted.
7. Previous Marriages: If either party was previously married, they must provide the date of divorce or the date of their former spouse’s death. Some counties may require a divorce decree or death certificate.
8. No Blood Test Required: Michigan does not require a blood test or medical examination as part of the marriage license process.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Michigan
1. Apply for a Marriage License at the County Clerk's Office
To begin the process of getting married at the courthouse in Michigan, the couple must visit the county clerk’s office in person to apply for a marriage license. For instance, if you live in Kent County, you must apply at the Kent County Clerk’s Office in Grand Rapids. Some counties offer online pre-applications, but both partners will still need to appear in person for identity verification. Bring government-issued IDs, your Social Security numbers (if you have them), and any necessary documentation for prior marriages. Pay the applicable fee at the time of application. Once submitted, you will be informed of the three-day waiting period.
2. Wait Three Days or Request a Waiver for Immediate Marriage
Michigan requires a three-day waiting period between your application and the issuance of your license. If you apply on Monday, the earliest you can marry is Thursday. In emergency situations, such as military deployment or travel abroad, you can request a waiver by submitting a written explanation and paying an additional fee (typically \$10–\$20). The county clerk or a probate judge will determine whether to approve the waiver. Be sure to plan ahead so the waiting period doesn’t interfere with your wedding date. Once the period passes, you can return to pick up your license or have it mailed to you, depending on the county’s process.
3. Schedule Your Courthouse Ceremony
Once you have your license in hand, contact the local District Court or Probate Court in the county where the ceremony will be performed. In many Michigan counties, such as Washtenaw, Ingham, or Macomb, judges or magistrates are available to perform civil ceremonies during designated hours. Appointments are typically required, and availability can vary—some counties perform weddings daily, while others only offer limited weekly slots. Contact the court to ask about available dates, ceremony fees (usually \$10–\$50), guest limits, and whether witnesses are required (note: Michigan does not legally require witnesses, but some judges request one or two for ceremonial purposes). Book your date and time in advance to avoid scheduling issues.
4. Attend the Courthouse Ceremony with Required Documents
On the day of your ceremony, arrive at the courthouse early with your marriage license, photo IDs, and any confirmation paperwork from the court. Dress in attire that suits your preference; while many couples opt for casual clothing, others choose semi-formal or traditional outfits. The judge or magistrate will conduct a brief ceremony—usually lasting 10 to 15 minutes. This may take place in a courtroom, judge’s chambers, or a dedicated ceremony room depending on the location. After exchanging vows, the officiant will sign the marriage license, making the union legally binding.
5. File the Signed Marriage License
The officiant is responsible for filing your completed marriage license with the county clerk’s office. This must be done promptly to make your marriage official. You do not need to take further action unless the officiant gives you the license to return yourself—clarify this on the day of your wedding. Once filed, your marriage is legally recorded in the State of Michigan’s system. The clerk’s office can then provide certified copies of your marriage certificate.
6. Obtain Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
Certified copies of your marriage certificate are essential for changing your name, updating legal documents, and applying for benefits. You can request these from the same county clerk's office where the license was filed. Most counties charge between \$10 and \$15 per certified copy. You can typically order them in person, by mail, or online (for example, through VitalChek in Wayne County). It’s wise to order at least two copies—one for immediate use and one as a backup.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Michigan
1. Regional Differences in Ceremony Availability
Michigan has 83 counties, and not all courts offer civil wedding ceremonies. Urban areas like Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Lansing have judges or magistrates readily available, while rural counties may offer fewer appointment slots. Always check with the local court before making plans. If your preferred county doesn’t offer courthouse weddings, you can find an independent officiant licensed in Michigan.
2. Affordability and Accessibility
Compared to traditional weddings, getting married at the courthouse in Michigan is extremely affordable. Marriage license fees are low, and courthouse ceremonies cost as little as \$10 in some counties. For couples on a budget or those prioritizing savings (for a home, education, or children), this is a practical and responsible option.
3. Scheduling Around the Three-Day Waiting Period
The required three-day waiting period can delay your plans if not accounted for. While the waiver option exists, it's not guaranteed and adds extra steps. For best results, apply for your license at least a week before your intended wedding date. This buffer also provides time for any corrections or unexpected issues.
4. Ceremony Privacy and Guest Limits
Courthouse weddings are typically private affairs, limited to the couple and a few guests. Most courts limit guests to 4–6 people, especially in smaller spaces. This intimate format suits couples who prefer a low-key or emotionally personal environment. Be sure to confirm guest policies when scheduling.
5. Legal Recognition and Flexibility
A courthouse wedding in Michigan is fully legal and recognized nationwide. This is especially helpful for couples marrying for immigration, health insurance, tax, or military reasons. You can also follow your legal ceremony with a religious or symbolic event at a later date, offering the best of both worlds.
6. Michigan's Marriage-Friendly Infrastructure
The state of Michigan supports a smooth and accessible marriage process through modern clerk’s offices, online tools, and clear documentation. Whether you're in Genesee County or the Upper Peninsula, information is available online or through local offices. This infrastructure reduces confusion and helps couples navigate the process efficiently.
Conclusion
How to get married at the courthouse in Michigan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The state has created a straightforward and inclusive process that works for residents and non-residents alike. From applying for your marriage license and navigating the waiting period, to arranging a civil ceremony with a judge, the steps are practical and consistent across most counties. Whether you're seeking a private, cost-effective wedding or a quick legal ceremony ahead of a larger event, getting married at the court in Michigan is a smart and stress-free option. With a little planning and a few essential documents, you’ll walk out of the courthouse legally married and ready for your next chapter.
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