Marriage license... who, what, where, when
/Marriage License: What You Actually Need to Know
One of the most common questions we get during planning is about the marriage license — when to apply, what to bring, and how it actually works. It’s not the most glamorous part of wedding prep, but it’s one of the most important.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know so you can handle it confidently and move on to the fun parts.
Where Do You Get a Marriage License?
In Kentucky, you apply at any County Clerk’s office in the state — it does not have to be the county where your wedding will take place.
Before you go, take a minute to check your local County Clerk’s website for updated hours and to make sure that location handles marriage license applications.
What Do You Need to Bring?
Valid government-issued photo ID
Social Security number
Payment for the license fee (confirm current amount with your county clerk)
Marriage license fees vary slightly by county, so be sure to check your local County Clerk’s website for the most up-to-date amount and accepted forms of payment.
Is There a Waiting Period?
Kentucky does not require a waiting period. You can use your marriage license immediately after receiving it.
How Long Is It Valid?
Marriage licenses in Kentucky are valid for 30 days from the date issued.
Who Turns It In?
After your ceremony, your officiant is responsible for completing and returning the signed license to the County Clerk’s office.
As your planner, we’ll make sure this doesn’t get overlooked — but it’s ultimately the officiant’s responsibility to file it properly.
A Planner’s Tip
In Kentucky, marriage licenses are valid for 30 days — but we typically recommend applying about 1–2 weeks before your wedding. That timing keeps everything well within the validity window without adding another task too far in advance.
Add a reminder to your calendar once you enter the final stretch of planning so it doesn’t get overlooked.
And yes — bring it to the rehearsal. Not the wedding morning.
Marriage licenses aren’t complicated — but they are important. Taking care of it at the right time ensures one less detail to worry about as your wedding day approaches.
And if you have questions along the way, that’s exactly what your planner is there for.
“Original post written October 2018”
There must be 2 witnesses to the marriage ceremony in addition to the couple on the marriage license along with the officiant.
There are no residency or licensing requirements for Officiants to perform marriages in Kentucky.
Online ordination is generally considered sufficient for someone to officiate and sign the marriage license. If you have any questions about who is legally allowed to perform the marriage, you may contact Jefferson County Clerk’s Office by phone, live chat or in person.
*all information above obtained directly from Jefferson County Clerk’s Office