Michigan Marriage License

Before a wedding ceremony can take place in the state of Michigan, the Michigan couple must apply for their license through their local county clerk.

Couples that do not reside in the state of Michigan must apply in the county in which the ceremony will take place.

Please contact the corresponding county clerk for specific information on the application process as it varies by county.

Couples wishing to marry in Michigan can apply no sooner than 33 days before their wedding date. There is a 3 day waiting period before the license can be picked up, however, some counties allow the waiting period to be waived for an additional fee. Please contact your corresponding county clerk office for specific details.

The marriage must take place before the expiration date posted on the license.

The Marriage License must be present at the couple's venue location and will require signatures from the couple, their Officiant/Minister and 2 witnesses over the age of 18.

Per Michigan Statute, the Officiant/Minister is legally responsible to file the marriage license, not the couple.

A Certified Copy of the couple's marriage license is required for legal name changes with Social Security, DMV, banks, etc..

Some counties, including Kent and Ottawa may automatically provide a certified copy of the couple's marriage license, however, most counties do not.

Certified copies can be purchased through the County Clerk's Office in which the license was obtained. NOTE: Michigan County Clerks will not automatically mail a Certified marriage license copy after it is filed by the Officiant/Minister. Couples interested in obtaining a certified copy must first apply for one.