Requirements to Obtain a Marriage License in the State Of Missouri

Please contact your county Recorder of Deeds for information regarding any county specific license procedures.

• Both applicants for a marriage license must be at least 18 years of age and appear in the presence of the recorder of deeds or their deputy. (RSMo 451.040) Proof of identification may be required, please contact the county for requirements.
• Proof of social security number is required at the time of application. (RSMo 451.040) Please contact the county for required documents.
• Applicants wishing to apply who are under the age of 18 must have custodial parental consent given. (RSMo 451.090)
• Applicants wishing to apply who are under the age of 15 must obtain an order of the circuit court. (RSMo 451.090)
• Applicants may not be related through and including first cousins. (RSMO 451.020)
• It is the public policy of this state to issue a marriage license only to a man and woman. (RSMO 451.022)
• There is no longer a three day waiting period before the license can be issued.  
  
• The license shall be void after thirty days from the date of issuance. (RSMO 451.040) 
• The license must be picked up prior to the ceremony. The person solemnizing the marriage is required to have the marriage license prior to performing the ceremony. (RSMO 451.120)
• The person solemnizing the marriage shall return the license to the issuing recorder of deeds within 15 days. (RSMo 451.130)
• Fee is $51.00 Cash Only. (RSMO 451.130)