How to get married at the courthouse in Nebraska is a question many couples ask when seeking a simple, cost-effective, and legally valid way to marry without a traditional wedding. Whether you live in Omaha, Lincoln, or smaller towns like Kearney or Scottsbluff, Nebraska offers a straightforward process for courthouse marriages that ensures your union is legally recognized. The state’s marriage laws allow couples to obtain a marriage license quickly and have a civil ceremony conducted by authorized officials, often within the same day. Many couples choose getting married at the courthouse in Nebraska to avoid the stress and expense of a large event while still fulfilling all legal requirements. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting married at the court in Nebraska, including the legal prerequisites, step-by-step procedures, and important considerations for a smooth courthouse wedding experience.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Nebraska
Before you plan your courthouse wedding, it’s important to know the legal requirements you must fulfill in Nebraska:
1. Age Requirements: Both parties must be at least 17 years old to get married in Nebraska. Individuals aged 17 need parental or legal guardian consent to marry. Marriage under 17 is not permitted. Proof of age is mandatory and must be shown through a valid government-issued ID or certified birth certificate.
2. Residency Not Required: Nebraska does not require you to be a resident to apply for a marriage license or marry in the state. This allows couples from other states or countries to legally marry at any county courthouse in Nebraska.
3. Valid Identification: Both applicants must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID. This ID verifies age and identity when applying for the marriage license.
4. Marriage License Application in Person: You must apply for a marriage license in person at any County Clerk’s office or County Court within Nebraska. Both applicants must appear together to sign the license application under oath. Some counties may offer an online pre-application, but the in-person visit is still mandatory.
5. Marriage License Fee: The fee for a Nebraska marriage license varies by county but generally ranges between \$15 and \$30. Payment is due at the time of application, and accepted methods typically include cash, check, or credit/debit cards depending on the county.
6. No Blood Test or Medical Exam: Nebraska does not require blood tests, medical exams, or health certificates to obtain a marriage license.
7. Waiting Period and License Validity: There is a 3-day waiting period after the license is issued before the marriage ceremony can be performed, except in Douglas and Lancaster counties, where no waiting period applies. The license is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance.
8. Previous Marriages: If either applicant has been previously married, they must disclose the date of the previous marriage’s termination (divorce or death). Documentation may be requested if the divorce was recent.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Nebraska
1. Apply for Your Marriage License at the County Clerk’s Office or County Court
To begin getting married at the courthouse in Nebraska, both parties must appear together at the County Clerk’s office or County Court to apply for a marriage license. For example, couples in Omaha would visit the Douglas County Clerk’s Office, while those in Lincoln go to the Lancaster County Clerk’s Office. You’ll need to bring your government-issued IDs and pay the marriage license fee. The clerk will review your documents, ask for relevant personal information, and have both parties sign the application under oath. After submitting the application, you must observe a waiting period of 3 days before you can marry—unless you’re in Douglas or Lancaster County, where the license is effective immediately.
2. Schedule Your Courthouse Wedding Ceremony
After the waiting period (if applicable) and once your license is valid, contact the local courthouse to schedule your civil marriage ceremony. In Nebraska, authorized officiants include judges, county clerks, magistrates, and certain public officials. Many counties allow you to book your wedding date and time by phone or online, but availability can vary depending on location. For example, the Lancaster County courthouse offers scheduled wedding ceremonies with magistrates and judges, but you may need to book weeks in advance during peak times. There may be an additional ceremony fee, typically ranging from \$20 to \$50. Ensure you confirm the location, time, and any guest policies.
3. Attend Your Courthouse Ceremony Ready to Marry
On your wedding day, arrive at the courthouse early with your marriage license, valid photo IDs, and two witnesses if required. Nebraska law requires two witnesses who are at least 19 years old to sign your marriage certificate, although some courthouses provide staff witnesses. Dress appropriately for the courthouse setting; many couples opt for business casual or wedding attire depending on their preferences. The ceremony itself usually takes 10 to 20 minutes and involves the officiant performing the legal rites and signing the license. You may exchange vows and rings during this time if allowed. Following the ceremony, the officiant will complete and file your marriage license with the county.
4. File Your Signed Marriage License with the County
The officiant is responsible for returning the signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office for official recording. This step must be completed promptly for your marriage to be legally registered. You can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate once the license is recorded, which usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks.
5. Obtain Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
After the license is recorded, you can order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the County Clerk’s office where you applied. Certified copies are necessary for legal name changes, tax purposes, insurance, and other official documentation. The fee for copies typically ranges from \$10 to \$15 each. Copies can often be ordered in person, by mail, or online depending on the county.
6. Plan Any Additional Celebrations or Legal Steps
Once your courthouse wedding is official, you may want to plan a reception, party, or honeymoon to celebrate with family and friends. Additionally, update your name and marital status with Social Security, DMV, banks, and other institutions using your certified marriage certificate.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Nebraska
1. The Waiting Period Can Vary by County
Nebraska’s 3-day waiting period after issuing the marriage license applies in most counties but is waived in Douglas (Omaha) and Lancaster (Lincoln) counties. If you live or plan to marry outside these areas, be sure to account for this waiting period in your timeline. This means you’ll need to plan your application and ceremony dates accordingly to avoid disappointment.
2. Marriage License Fees Are Low Compared to Many States
One of the benefits of courthouse weddings in Nebraska is the relatively low cost. The marriage license fee typically ranges from \$15 to \$30, and some counties may charge a modest fee for the ceremony. This makes courthouse weddings a budget-friendly alternative to traditional weddings with costly venues and vendors.
3. You Must Bring Two Adult Witnesses to the Ceremony
Nebraska law requires two witnesses, both at least 19 years old, to be present at your wedding ceremony and sign your marriage certificate. These witnesses can be friends, family, or sometimes courthouse staff if arranged in advance. Planning for witnesses is important to avoid last-minute issues on the day of your wedding.
4. Not All Courthouses Offer Wedding Ceremonies Every Day
The availability of judges or magistrates to officiate weddings varies between counties and courthouses. Some smaller counties may only conduct ceremonies on specific days or by appointment. It’s critical to call your county clerk or court clerk ahead of time to confirm scheduling policies.
5. Your Nebraska Courthouse Marriage Is Fully Legal Nationwide
Once your marriage license is recorded, your marriage is legally recognized throughout the United States. This gives you full rights and responsibilities as a married couple and allows you to proceed with name changes, tax filing, and insurance updates.
6. Nebraska’s Courthouse Weddings Are Simple but Meaningful
While courthouse weddings are usually short and simple, they offer an intimate and official way to exchange vows without distractions. Many couples appreciate the low-stress environment and the focus on the legal commitment rather than a large celebration. However, you can always plan a party or reception later to share your joy with loved ones.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get married at the courthouse in Nebraska is crucial for couples who want a straightforward, affordable, and legal way to say “I do.” Whether you reside in Omaha, Lincoln, or a smaller Nebraskan town, the process is accessible and designed to accommodate both residents and visitors. From obtaining your marriage license at the county clerk’s office to scheduling your civil ceremony and filing your marriage certificate, each step is straightforward and well-organized. Getting married at the courthouse in Nebraska is an excellent choice for couples seeking a stress-free, no-frills wedding with full legal recognition. Wherever you choose to celebrate your new life together—whether in the heart of Lincoln or the plains outside Scottsbluff—getting married at the court in Nebraska ensures your union is officially and beautifully recognized.
