Michigan Marriage License Requirements
Couples seeking a marriage license in Michigan must meet specific eligibility requirements. Applicants must be at least 18 years old with no additional requirements, though those aged 16 or 17 may marry with parental consent, and those under 16 may do so with both parental consent and probate court approval. A government-issued photo ID, certified birth certificate, and Social Security number are required. Michigan residents must apply for the license in their county of residence, while non-residents apply in the county where the ceremony will take place. Two witnesses, each at least 18 years old, must be present at the marriage ceremony. No blood test is required in Michigan.
The application process includes a standard three-day waiting period, which may be waived by the county clerk for a $5 fee. License fees vary by residency status: $20 for residents and $30 for non-residents. Specific requirements and procedures may vary by county, and applicants should confirm all eligibility details and fees with their county clerk before applying. For definitive information on current rules, the Michigan County Clerks Association and the state's official resources provide authoritative guidance.
| Requirement | Michigan |
|---|---|
| License fee | $20 (MI residents) / $30 (non-residents) — county-collected statutory fee |
| Fee set by | County (varies by county) |
| Waiting period | 3 days (waivable by the county clerk for a $5 fee) |
| License validity | 33 days |
| ID required | government photo ID; certified birth certificate; SSN |
| Residency required | MI residents apply in their county of residence; non-residents apply in the county of the ceremony |
| Minimum age | 18 without consent; 16-17 with parental consent; under 16 with consent AND probate-court approval |
| Blood test | no |
| Witnesses | 2 witnesses (18+) |
| Online option | some counties offer online application; license picked up in person |
| Where to apply | County Clerk (county-administered) |
| Governing law | Set by state statute — refer to your state’s official statutes and the issuing County Clerk for the governing rule |
Confirm locally. Requirements come from public-record state law and can change. Verify with the issuing county clerk or state .gov. Informational only — not legal advice.
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