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Getting Married in Las Vegas: Your Marriage License Guide
Planning to tie the knot in the Wedding Capital of the World? Congratulations! Understanding marriage license requirements is crucial for your Las Vegas wedding. While some aspects of Vegas weddings can be spontaneous, getting your marriage license is one detail that requires careful attention.
Marriage License Requirements
First, let’s address the main question: Can you get married without a marriage license? The short answer is no – not legally. A valid marriage license is required for any legally binding marriage ceremony in Las Vegas. Here’s what you need to know:
Essential Requirements:
- Both parties must be 18 years or older
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Both parties must appear in person
- $102 license fee (as of 2024)
- No blood tests or waiting period required
Getting Your License in Las Vegas
License Bureau Details:
- Location: 201 E. Clark Avenue, Las Vegas
- Hours: 8:00 AM – Midnight, 365 days per year
- Pre-application available online
- Credit cards accepted
Two Ways to Apply:
- Online Pre-Application: Complete forms ahead of time through the Clark County website. This speeds up the in-person process to about 30 minutes.
- In-Person Application: Complete all paperwork at the bureau. Allow approximately one hour plus waiting time.
Timing and Planning
Same-Day Marriage License:
Yes, you can obtain your marriage license the same day as your ceremony! However, we recommend following these guidelines:
- Allow at least 2 hours between license acquisition and ceremony time
- Consider peak hours at the bureau (10 AM – 4 PM are busiest)
- Pre-apply online to save time
- License is valid for one year from issue date
Special Situations and Alternatives
If You Can’t Get a License:
If circumstances prevent you from obtaining a marriage license, you have several options:
Commitment Ceremony
- Non-legally binding ceremony
- Keeps your planned celebration with guests
- Can be followed by legal ceremony later
Civil Ceremony Options
The Office of Civil Marriages offers simpler ceremonies for couples seeking a basic legal marriage. Important notes:
- Separate from the Marriage License Bureau
- Appointment required
- Basic, brief ceremony
- Limited guest capacity
Planning Your Vegas Wedding
For a smooth wedding experience, consider these tips:
- Book your ceremony venue before getting your license
- Bring all required documentation
- Consider scheduling your ceremony at least 2-3 hours after the planned license acquisition
- Review our wedding packages to find the perfect option for your celebration
Ready to Plan Your Las Vegas Wedding?
Let Chapel of the Flowers help you create the perfect wedding day. Our experienced wedding planners can guide you through every step, from obtaining your marriage license to choosing the perfect ceremony package.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marriage Licenses
Do I absolutely need a marriage license to get married in Las Vegas?
Yes, you need a valid marriage license to have a legally binding marriage in Las Vegas. Without a license, you can only have a commitment ceremony, which has no legal standing.
How much does a Las Vegas marriage license cost?
A marriage license in Las Vegas (Clark County) costs $102 as of 2024. This fee can be paid by cash, credit card, or debit card.
How long does it take to get a marriage license in Las Vegas?
If you pre-apply online, the process takes about 30 minutes. Without pre-applying, expect to spend about an hour at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau.
Can I get my marriage license the same day as my wedding?
Yes, you can get your marriage license the same day as your wedding. The Marriage License Bureau is open daily from 8am to midnight, including holidays. Just ensure you allow enough time before your ceremony.
What documents do I need to get a marriage license?
You need:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
- Both parties must appear in person
- Social Security number (if you have one)
- Payment for the fee
How long is a Las Vegas marriage license valid?
A marriage license issued in Las Vegas is valid for one year from the date of issuance. There’s no waiting period – you can use it immediately after receiving it.
Can I use a marriage license from another state in Las Vegas?
No, you must obtain a Nevada marriage license to get married in Las Vegas. Licenses from other states are not valid for ceremonies performed in Nevada.
What if we forget to get a license before our planned ceremony?
You have two options:
- Convert your ceremony to a commitment ceremony (non-legal)
- Postpone the ceremony until you can obtain a license
Where is the Marriage License Bureau located in Las Vegas?
The Clark County Marriage License Bureau is located at 201 E. Clark Avenue in downtown Las Vegas, near the Regional Justice Center.
