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How do I get a marriage license in Missouri?

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

Missouri's Recorder of Deeds issues licenses statewide with no waiting period.

1. Where to Apply

  • Any Recorder of Deeds office in Missouri (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 451.040).
  • Both parties must appear together; license valid statewide for ceremony.

    • 2. ID and Documents

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

    • 3. Fees

  • $50-$55 by county (St. Louis ~$50; Jackson ~$50).

    • 4. Waiting Period and Expiration

  • No waiting period — issued same day.
  • License valid 30 days from issuance — short by national standards.

    • 5. Age and Residency

  • 18 minimum. 16-17 require parental consent and the partner must be no more than 3 years older (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 451.090, reformed 2018). Under-16 marriage prohibited.
  • No residency requirement.

    • 6. Blood Test and Same-Sex Marriage

  • No blood test required.
  • Same-sex marriage legal since Obergefell (2015). St. Louis began issuing same-sex licenses in 2014.

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Underage marriage involving age-gap exceeding 3 years
    • Marriage to an immigrant for immigration status purposes
    • Complex prior divorce or international decree validity issues
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Mo. Rev. Stat. § 451.040
    • Mo. Rev. Stat. § 451.090
    • Mo. Rev. Stat. § 451.110
    • 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.