Apply for a Marriage License

Overview

You may request a marriage license via the Recorder of Deeds Marriage Department. You can fill out an online application beforehand or in person, but in either case couples must visit the Marriage Department together in person to obtain the license.

You may register a domestic partnership instead of obtaining a marriage license if you prefer.

Preparation

1. Check that you meet the legal requirements for marriage.
2. Ensure that both parties have a driver’s license, state ID or passport that has the full legal name.
3. Prepare to pay the $48.00 application fee with Visa/Mastercard or cash.
4. The marriage license is valid for 30 days. Ensure that you use it within 29 days of obtaining it.
   • The ceremony must be performed in Missouri and officiated by a U.S. citizen who is a clergy in good standing with a Missouri congregation or judge of a court of record.
   • Two witnesses must be present at the ceremony to sign the license.

Instructions

You can fill out the form online in advance or in person at the office, but couples must visit the Marriage Department together in person to obtain the license.

1. Use the Begin Online button below to fill out the marriage license application form, and bring a printout with you to the Marriage Department.
   
   OR
   
   Visit the Marriage Department together and fill out the form in person.
2. Both applicants must visit the Marriage Department together, with their Driver’s License, State ID or Passport.

Marriage Department
1200 Market St., City Hall, Room 127
St. Louis, MO 63103

Hours are:

• 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday
• 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Friday
• 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Saturday

Begin online

Fees

$48.00 nonrefundable application fee payable with Visa/Mastercard or cash. No checks.

What to Expect

Your license will be issued during your visit to the Marriage Department.

• License must be used for a ceremony within 29 days after it is has been picked up.
• Ceremony must be performed in Missouri and officiated by a U.S. citizen who is a clergy in good standing with a Missouri congregation or judge of a court of record.
• Two witnesses to the ceremony must sign the license.
• Within 15 days after ceremony, clergy or judge must complete, sign and return license to Recorder of Deeds.