How to Get a Marriage License in Indiana

In this article, I'll take you step-by-step through the process of obtaining your marriage license in Indiana. Every state is different, so please check with your home state or the state in which you are getting married.

Set your wedding date and book your venue. 

This determines when and where you get your license. Marriage licenses expire in 60 days in Indiana so you don't want to file too soon. You will file your license application in the county in which you reside if you are an Indiana resident or the Indiana county in which you are getting married if you live out of state. 

Go to the County Clerk’s office. 

Both partners must be present to get a marriage license. Bring proof of identity. Indiana requires a current, valid driver’s license or state-issued ID card, a passport, or a birth certificate. Indiana state law (IC 31-11-4-6) also includes "any written evidence of the individual's date of birth that is satisfactory to the clerk." You will also have to provide your social security number and the following information for both of your parents: Full name, last known address, and birthplace (state or foreign country). If you were previously married, check with your county to see if you need a divorce decree to prove you can legally remarry. If you’re under 18, you’ll need to bring a parent to provide consent. 

The marriage license fee is $18 if at least one party is an Indiana resident and $60 if both parties are out-of-state residents. Some offices charge an additional document fee of $2.00. Additional copies of your marriage license are $2.00. Most counties require a cash payment. 

You can begin the process online here - https://mycourts.in.gov/mlpublic/ - to shorten your trip to the clerk’s office.

Once you provide the necessary documentation and information, and pay your fee, you will be granted your marriage license. 

Get signatures. 

After the wedding ceremony, you, your partner, your officiant, and two adult witnesses will sign your marriage license. 

Officiant turns in the completed marriage license to the county. 

It is the officiant’s responsibility to submit your completed marriage license to the county either by mail or in person. You will be mailed a certified copy.