How to Apply for a Marriage License in Colorado
Colorado is different. self-solemnization / self-uniting (Quaker) marriages — no officiant required
Marriage licenses in Colorado are obtained through the county clerk and recorder office in the applicant's county of residence. Both parties must appear in person and present a government-issued photo ID. Colorado has no mandatory waiting period between application and marriage. The statutory fee for a marriage license is $30.
A distinctive feature of Colorado law is that couples may choose to solemnize their own marriage without an officiant or witnesses present. This self-solemnization option is available as an alternative to traditional ceremony arrangements. Applicants should contact their county clerk and recorder office directly to confirm current procedures, required documentation, and office hours, as administrative details may vary by county.
- Apply at County Clerk and Recorder (statutory fee, county-administered).
- Bring government photo ID for both parties.
- Pay the license fee ($30 (statewide statutory fee at the County Clerk)).
- Online / remote option: self-solemnization allowed — couple can solemnize their own marriage (no officiant).
Confirm with the issuing office. Hours, appointment rules and accepted documents differ by county. Informational only — not legal advice.
Plan the paperwork around the ceremony
Time the license application to your wedding date: most states have a validity window and some have a short waiting period between issuing the license and the ceremony. Apply early enough that the license is valid on the day — and confirm the exact windows with the issuing county clerk before you lock in plans.
