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How do I get a marriage license in Tennessee?

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

Tennessee's county clerks issue marriage licenses and reward couples who complete premarital preparation.

1. Where to Apply

  • Any county clerk in Tennessee (Tenn. Code § 36-3-103).
  • 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 of prior spouse.

    • 3. Fees

  • $97.50 standard.
  • Reduced by $60 (to $37.50) with completion of a qualifying 4-hour premarital preparation course (Tenn. Code § 36-6-413).

    • 4. Waiting Period and Expiration

  • No waiting period — issued same day.
  • License valid for 30 days from issuance.

    • 5. Age and Residency

  • 17 minimum with parental consent (raised from 16 in 2018 — Tenn. Code § 36-3-105). Under-17 marriage prohibited.
  • No residency requirement.

    • 6. Blood Test and Same-Sex Marriage

  • No blood test required.
  • Same-sex marriage legal since Tanco v. Haslam (a Tennessee case consolidated into Obergefell, 2015), despite continued state-level resistance.

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Underage marriage of a 17-year-old requiring parental consent
    • Marriage to an immigrant for immigration status purposes
    • Complex prior divorce or international decree validity issues
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Tenn. Code § 36-3-103
    • Tenn. Code § 36-3-105
    • Tenn. Code § 36-6-413
    • 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.