Marriage License

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Marriage is considered a civil contract. The consent of the parties capable of entering into a contract is essential. In addition, the parties must have a license and solemnization before the marriage is legal and valid. [MCL 551.2] The license issued by the county clerk is valid for 33 days from the date of issue. [MCL 551.103a]

Michigan Residents:

If either party is a resident of Michigan, the resident must obtain a license from the county clerk of the county in which they reside. [MCL 551.101]

Non Residents:

Non residents of Michigan must apply for their marriage license in the county in which the marriage ceremony is to be performed. The parties should be referred to the county clerk to receive the appropriate information on how to apply for amarriage license.

Both applicants are not required to appear in person at the time of applying. However, he or she will be required to complete all information about both applicants:

• A photocopy of the front and back of the other person's driver's    license.

• Full names

• Addresses, dates and places of birth;

• Bride's name after marriage

Identification requirements vary in each county. A valid drivers license or certified copy of birth certificate may be requested.

Waiting Period: 3 days. The county clerk can waive the 3 day waiting period for "good and sufficient cause shown."

Fees: $20 for residents, and $30 for non-residents. $15.00 of it is allocated for family counseling services.

Blood Tests: No tests

When you apply for your license, you will need a proof of identification and age, and any information regarding previous marriages.

You will need to have a witness when you sign the application, so plan on bringing your maid of honor or best man with you. The bride will need to know what her married name will be before she signs the marriage certificate. You'll have to write that name on the application.

On your wedding day, you'll give your officiant your marriage license, then after the ceremony, he/she will sign it and send it to the proper government agency for validation.

Under 18: Applicants 18 years of age may marry without parental consent.

• Applicants 16 years of age may marry with parental or legal guardian written consent.

• Applicants under the age of 15 with parental consent and probate court permission.

Certificate: After the wedding ceremony the wedding officiant fills in (typed or legibly printed) the certificate with the time and place of the marriage and the names and residences of the two witnesses, and signs it. The part marked "duplicate" is given to the newlyweds, and we will deliver the original to the county clerk that issued it. The clerk records the information in a registration book, and mails it on to the the state registrar. The license, when fully filled out, thus serves a "double purpose" and becomes the certificate.

Please Note: State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

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