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How do I get a marriage license in Minnesota?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Minnesota strongly incentivizes premarital education with one of the largest discount programs in the country.

1. Where to Apply

  • Any Minnesota county Recorder or court administrator (Minn. Stat. § 517.08).
  • Both parties must appear together; license valid statewide.

    • 2. ID and Documents

  • Government-issued photo ID and Social Security number.
  • Previously married: date of divorce or death.

    • 3. Fees

  • $115 standard.
  • Reduced to $40 with certified completion of a 12-hour premarital education program (Minn. Stat. § 517.08, subd. 1b) — among the largest discounts in the U.S.

    • 4. Waiting Period and Expiration

  • 5-day waiting period between application and license issuance (Minn. Stat. § 517.08), waivable by court order.
  • License valid 6 months (Minn. Stat. § 517.10) — among the longest.

    • 5. Age and Residency

  • 18 minimum with no exceptions — Minnesota banned minor marriages in 2020 (Minn. Stat. § 517.02).
  • No residency requirement.

    • 6. Blood Test and Same-Sex Marriage

  • No blood test required.
  • Same-sex marriage legal since August 1, 2013 (Minnesota legislature) and confirmed by Obergefell (2015).

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Underage marriage (banned in MN post-2020)
    • Marriage to an immigrant for immigration status purposes
    • Complex prior divorce or international decree validity issues
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Minn. Stat. § 517.02
    • Minn. Stat. § 517.08
    • Minn. Stat. § 517.10
    • Obergefell v. Hodges, 576 U.S. 644 (2015)

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.