How To Get Your Indiana Marriage License
October 30, 2019
How to Get your Indiana Marriage License
When you dream of getting married, waiting around in a courthouse and signing government documents isn’t your first thought. Paperwork isn’t on anyone’s list of romantic visions of the future, but it’s the most important aspect of making sure your marriage is official. Streamline the process & learn how to get your Indiana marriage license with these tips.
When to apply
A marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued, and couples may be married as early as the same day. Couples who do not marry within the 60 days must apply for a new license before marrying.
What to take to the County Clerk’s Office
Identification. Be sure to bring one of the following forms of identification to prove your identity and date of birth:
- Current, valid drivers license or state-issued ID card
- Passport
- Birth certificate
Because local policies vary by county, please contact the clerk’s office in advance to ensure you have all the required documents.
If you were previously married, you will need to provide the date your marriage ended. In addition, some counties require a certified copy of the divorce decree.
How Much It Costs
The marriage license fee is $18 if one or both parties are Indiana residents and $60.00 for out-of-state residents. Some offices also charge an additional document fee of $2.00. Each copy of the Certified Marriage License (required for name change at BMV, SSN, etc.) is also $2.00. Most counties require these fees to be paid in cash.
Residency Requirements
Indiana residents must apply at the county clerk’s office where they live. You do not have to be a resident of the state to get married there, however. If both of you are non-residents, apply for a license through the county clerk where the wedding ceremony will take place.
Start the Process Online
If you wish to make the process a little faster in the office, Indiana provides an online form that allows you to fill out most of the application ahead of time. To finalize the process and receive your license, it is the law that both of you be present at the county clerk’s office. That must be done within 14 days of filling out the online application.
Make it Official
And now you’re ready for wedding day! On wedding day, plan to have your officiant or coordinator keep your marriage license in a safe place after signing. Plan ahead by pre-stamping the envelope for easy mailing return.
Ready to change from Miss to Mrs?
Read our helpful post about how to legally change your name after the wedding. Follow these easy steps here.
