Marriage License

Getting married is one of the most significant milestones in life, and for those looking to tie the knot in Maricopa County, Arizona, understanding the process of obtaining a marriage license is a crucial first step. This article will walk you through the requirements, options, fees, and where to apply for a Maricopa County AZ Marriage License. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the information needed to navigate the process smoothly.

What is a Marriage License?

A marriage license is a legal document required to marry in the state of Arizona. In Maricopa County, the Clerk of the Superior Court issues marriage licenses to couples who meet the necessary eligibility requirements. This license allows you to have a marriage ceremony conducted by an officiant and ensures that your marriage is legally recognized.

Who is Eligible for a Maricopa County AZ Marriage License?

To apply for a marriage license in Maricopa County, both individuals must meet the following criteria:

Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18 but at least 16, specific documents, such as a parental consent form and/or an emancipation order, are required.

Identification: Both applicants need to provide a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. The IDs must clearly demonstrate your identity and age.

No Residency Requirement: Arizona does not require either applicant to be a state resident, so couples from other states or countries can apply for a marriage license here.

No Blood Tests or Waiting Period: Arizona does not require blood tests for marriage, nor is there a waiting period once the license is issued. Couples can marry immediately.

How to Apply for a Maricopa County Marriage License

There are two main ways to apply for a marriage license in Maricopa County: online or in-person. Let's explore both options.

Applying Online for a Marriage License

For Arizona residents, Maricopa County offers an Online Marriage License Program. This service allows couples to complete the marriage license application from the comfort of their home. Here's how it works:

Prepare the Required Documents: Before starting the application, ensure you have a digital copy of both applicants' valid government-issued IDs.

Complete the Online Application: Visit the Maricopa County Clerk's website to complete the online application form. You’ll need to upload both applicants’ IDs as part of the process.

Sign the Affidavit: After completing the application, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Print and sign the affidavit with both applicants’ original hand signatures.

Verification and Payment: Once your application is reviewed, the Clerk’s Office will contact you to verify your identities and process the payment.

Marriage License Delivered: After payment, the marriage license will be mailed to you within three business days.

Note: The online marriage license program is available only to Arizona residents, and the license will be mailed to the address provided during the application process.

Applying In-Person for a Marriage License

Couples can also apply for a marriage license in-person at one of the Maricopa County Clerk of the Superior Court locations. Appointments are recommended, though walk-ins are accepted. Here’s how you can apply in-person:

Complete the Application: Before arriving, fill out the marriage license application form. You can download and print it from the Clerk’s website, or you can complete it on-site.

Visit One of the Clerk’s Offices: Both applicants must be present to submit the application. You’ll need to bring valid identification with you.

Payment: The fee for a marriage license is $98, and it can be paid via credit card, debit card, or money order. If applying at Justice Courts, money orders are required.

Get Your License: You will receive your marriage license the same day. You may marry immediately after receiving your license, provided you have an officiant ready to conduct the ceremony.

Important Marriage License Details in Maricopa County

Once you have your marriage license, there are a few important things to know:

Validity: The marriage license is valid immediately after issuance and up to one year from the date it was issued. This means you have up to one year to get married before the license expires.

Marriage Ceremony: Your officiant will sign the marriage license after the ceremony. The officiant must return the signed license to the Clerk’s Office within 30 days for your marriage to be officially recorded.

Certified Copy of the Marriage License: After your marriage is recorded, you can request a certified copy of the marriage license for an additional fee. This is required for name changes and other legal purposes.

Special Types of Marriage Licenses

If you are looking for a more unique marital arrangement, Maricopa County also offers a Covenant Marriage License. This license requires additional documentation, such as a notarized statement from a clergy member or marriage counselor confirming that both parties have received premarital counseling.

Covenant Marriage License Requirements: Couples must complete a "Declaration of Intent to Enter Into a Covenant Marriage" and provide a notarized statement from their counselor or clergy member.

Conversion to Covenant Marriage: Couples already married can convert their existing marriage to a covenant marriage by signing the appropriate forms at the Clerk’s Office. A fee of $35 is charged for this conversion.

Marriage License Fees in Maricopa County

The cost for a marriage license in Maricopa County is $98. This fee must be paid when you apply for the license, and it covers the issuance of the license itself. Additional fees may apply if you request a certified copy of the marriage license after it is recorded.

Locations to Obtain a Marriage License

Maricopa County offers several locations where you can apply for a marriage license. These offices also serve as the venues for obtaining additional services such as certified copies of marriage records:

Downtown Phoenix
620 West Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: (602) 372-5375

Northeast Regional Court Center
18380 N. 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85032

Northwest Regional Court Center
14264 W. Tierra Buena Ln., Surprise, AZ 85374

Southeast Regional Court Center
222 E. Javelina, Mesa, AZ 85210

Additionally, you can apply for a marriage license at deputized justice and municipal court facilities in Maricopa County. However, appointments cannot be made for these locations through the Clerk’s reservation webpage.

For further details, visit the Maricopa County Clerk's official website.

Contact Information

Here is the contact information for the relevant departments related to marriage licenses in Maricopa County:

Maricopa County Clerk of Superior Court
Phone: (602) 372-5375
Address: 620 West Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Website: clerkofcourt.maricopa.gov

Maricopa County Justice Courts
Phone: (602) 506-8530
Address: 222 N Central Ave, #210, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Website: justicecourts.maricopa.gov

Maricopa County Marriage License FAQs

What Are the Requirements for a Marriage License in Maricopa County?

To obtain a marriage license in Maricopa County, both applicants must be present and provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID. The applicants must be at least 18 years old. If either applicant is under 18 but at least 16, specific requirements such as a parental consent form or emancipation order must be met. Additionally, there is no residency requirement for marriage licenses in Arizona, so couples from outside the state or country can also apply.

Can I Apply for a Marriage License Online?

Yes, Maricopa County offers an Online Marriage License Program for Arizona residents. Applicants must complete the application, upload required IDs, and sign an affidavit. The marriage license will be mailed within three business days after verification and payment. Note that this service is available only to Arizona residents. For more details on applying online, visit the official Maricopa County Clerk of the Superior Court website.

How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in Maricopa County?

The fee for a marriage license in Maricopa County is $98, payable via credit card, debit card, or money order (if applying at justice courts). If you wish to receive a certified copy of your marriage license, there is an additional fee of $43.50 for prepayment or $35.50 if you provide a self-addressed stamped envelope. The marriage license is valid for up to one year from the date of issuance.

What Happens After the Marriage Ceremony?

Once the ceremony is completed, the officiant must sign the marriage license, which should then be returned to the Clerk’s Office within 30 days for official recording. After the license is recorded, you can request a certified copy for legal purposes, including name changes.

Where Can I Apply for a Marriage License in Maricopa County?

Marriage licenses can be obtained at several locations across Maricopa County. These include the Downtown Phoenix location, Northeast Regional Court Center, Northwest Regional Court Center, and Southeast Regional Court Center. While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are accepted at these offices. You can find more details on the specific locations and office hours here.