How to Get a Marriage License in Colorado

Understanding Colorado Marriage License Requirements

A marriage license in Colorado is an official document that permits two people to marry legally within the state. Colorado recognizes marriages between two people who meet certain requirements set by state law. Before proceeding with any marriage plans, understanding these foundational requirements helps clarify what the state expects from both parties.

Colorado requires that both people seeking to marry must be at least 18 years old. If either person is between 16 and 17 years old, they may marry with written consent from both parents or legal guardians. If either person is under 16 years old, Colorado does not permit marriage under any circumstances. This protects younger individuals and ensures that those marrying have reached a certain maturity level.

Both people must also be mentally capable of consenting to marriage. This means each person must understand the nature of the marriage contract and be able to make the decision freely. Colorado law does not permit marriage if either person is unable to provide informed consent due to mental incapacity.

Colorado requires that the two people marrying not be closely related by blood. Specifically, marriage between parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, or siblings is prohibited. Marriages between first cousins are permitted in Colorado.

Neither person can be currently married to someone else. If either person is already married, the previous marriage must be legally dissolved through divorce or the death of the spouse before a new marriage can take place. Colorado recognizes this requirement to prevent bigamy, which is illegal in the state.

Practical Takeaway: Review Colorado's basic marriage requirements before scheduling a visit to the county clerk's office. This preparation prevents wasted trips and unnecessary delays.

Gathering Required Documents and Information

Before visiting a Colorado county clerk's office to obtain a marriage license, both people must gather specific documents and information. Having these materials ready prevents delays and ensures the process moves smoothly. The requirements are straightforward but must be met exactly as outlined by Colorado law.

Both people need valid government-issued identification. This can include a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The identification must be current or have expired within the last five years. If identification has been expired longer than five years, the county clerk may request additional documentation. The ID serves to verify identity and age, ensuring both people meet Colorado's age requirements.

Colorado requires proof of Social Security numbers for both people. This can be demonstrated by providing a Social Security card, birth certificate showing the Social Security number, or a tax return. Some people use alternative documents if they do not have a Social Security number or card available. The county clerk will discuss options if proof presents a challenge.

Birth certificates are not required by Colorado state law to obtain a marriage license, though some county clerks may request them. Having a copy of your birth certificate available can be helpful if questions arise about age or identity. Birth certificates must be official copies obtained from the vital records office in the state where you were born.

If either person has been divorced, some county clerks request a copy of the final divorce decree. This document proves that any previous marriage has been legally ended. Not all counties require this, but having it available prevents potential delays. Similarly, if either person is a widow or widower, a death certificate of the deceased spouse may be requested, though this is not always required.

Both people should prepare to provide their complete legal names as they wish them to appear on the marriage license. They should also know their dates of birth and places of residence. Some people choose to change their names after marriage; however, the marriage license records the names at the time of marriage.

Practical Takeaway: Create a checklist of required documents and contact your county clerk's office in advance to confirm which specific documents they need, as requirements can vary slightly between counties.

The Marriage License Process in Colorado County Clerk Offices

Colorado marriage licenses are issued by county clerk and recorder offices in each of Colorado's 64 counties. The process begins when both people visit their county clerk's office in person. Colorado requires that both people appear together to obtain a marriage license; one person cannot obtain it for both.

When arriving at the county clerk's office, both people will complete a joint application form. This form asks for names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, addresses, and places of residence. The form also includes questions about previous marriages and whether either person is related to the other. Both people must sign the application in the presence of a county clerk or authorized staff member. Signing confirms that the information provided is truthful and that both people understand the legal implications of marriage.

The county clerk reviews the application for completeness and accuracy. They verify that both people meet Colorado's marriage requirements by checking identification and reviewing the information provided. This review typically takes a few minutes if all documents are in order. If information is incomplete or unclear, the clerk will ask for clarification or additional documentation.

After the application is approved, Colorado requires a three-day waiting period before the marriage license becomes valid. This waiting period begins the day after the application is submitted. For example, if the application is submitted on a Monday, the marriage license becomes valid on Thursday. The purpose of this waiting period is to allow time for reflection and to prevent impulsive decisions.

Once the waiting period has passed, the marriage license is valid for 35 days in Colorado. Both people must marry within this 35-day window. If the marriage does not occur within 35 days, the license expires and must be renewed by resubmitting an application and paying the fee again.

The cost of a Colorado marriage license is $41.50 in most counties, though some counties may charge slightly different fees. Payment is typically made at the time the application is submitted. Most county clerk offices accept cash, check, and credit or debit cards. Some offices now offer online payment options.

Practical Takeaway: Plan your application timeline carefully, accounting for the three-day waiting period and the 35-day validity window when scheduling your wedding ceremony.

County-Specific Variations and Procedures

While Colorado state law sets the basic framework for marriage licenses, individual county clerk offices may have slightly different procedures or additional requirements. Understanding that these variations exist helps prevent confusion when visiting your specific county clerk's office.

Some Colorado counties offer online marriage license applications that can be completed before visiting the office in person. This pre-application step can reduce the time spent in the office. However, both people must still appear in person to sign the application and provide identification. Counties offering this service include Denver, Boulder, and several others. Not all counties have adopted online systems, so availability depends on your location.

Appointment systems also vary by county. Some counties require appointments for marriage license applications, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. During high-volume periods or around holidays, waiting times can be longer. Contacting your county clerk's office in advance to learn about their specific process and to schedule an appointment if required can save time.

Hours of operation differ between counties. Most county clerk offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, some larger counties offer extended hours or Saturday appointments. The Colorado Secretary of State's website provides a directory of all county clerk offices with their contact information and hours.

Some counties have additional local procedures regarding name changes that may be requested at the time of marriage license application. While name changes typically occur after marriage through a separate legal process, discussing options with the county clerk when obtaining your license is wise. They can explain the process specific to their county and may provide forms or information about how to change names after marriage.

Fee payment methods may also vary slightly. While most counties accept standard payment methods, some may require specific forms of payment in certain situations. Calling your county clerk's office before your visit to confirm payment options ensures you arrive prepared.

Practical Takeaway: Contact your specific county clerk's office at least two weeks before you plan to marry to learn their exact procedures, fees, hours, and any county-specific requirements.

What Happens After You Receive Your Marriage License

After the three-day waiting period passes and your marriage license becomes valid, you and your spouse-to-be can proceed with your wedding ceremony. The marriage license is the legal document that authorizes the ceremony. However, the license itself does not make you married; the ceremony and proper documentation do.

Colorado recognizes different types of ceremonies. The most common is a ceremony performed by an authorized official, such as a judge, minister, priest, rabbi, or