* Proof of Residency  At least one party must be a resident of Waukesha County for at least 30 days. The easiest way to prove residency is with a valid Wisconsin Driver's license with current address. 

* Social Security Numbers - Both parties are required to show proof of their social security numbers in order to obtain a marriage license.

* Birth Certificates - All applicants must bring in a certified copy of their birth certificate from the Register of Deed's office in the county where they were born (which will have a raised or colored seal on it) Photocopies or hospital certificates will not be accepted.

* Divorce Papers/ or Death Certificates - See clarification below.

* Date of Ceremony - Wedding date must be set before applying for your licenses.

* Officiant - You will need to know the name, address and telephone number of the person performing your wedding ceremony. 

* A penalty of not less than $100 nor more than $1000 or imprisonment of not more than 1 year or both to any person who knowingly gives false information when applying for a marriage license.

How much is the fee for a marriage license?  
$105.00 in cash, no credit cards.

When should I apply?  
Application should be at least 6 days before the wedding (due to the 5-day waiting period), but not more than 36 days.

How long is the marriage license valid?
30 days

I am an out of state resident, can I apply in Waukesha County for a license?  
Out of state residents can apply in Waukesha County only if they are getting married in Waukesha County.

Can there be exceptions to the waiting period requirement?   
Please contact the office to discuss your situation.

Do both parties have to be present at the clerk's office to apply for a license?  
Yes, both the bride and groom must apply in person.

Are we required to have a blood test?
Wisconsin does not require a premarital medical exam or blood tests in order to marry.

How long does it take to get a license?  
If you have all your paperwork required, the normal time will take about 15- 20 minutes. Remember, the time may change with the number of other couples applying.  

How do I get information on being married by a judge?  
Click for information to set up an appointment with a judge.

What are the age restrictions for obtaining a marriage license?
Wisconsin Law states no one under the age of 16 years old may marry.  Anyone between the ages of 16 and 18 can marry only with the written consent of a legal custodian.  Click here to view/print a consent form.  The consent form is also  available in our office.

How do we get a certified copy of our marriage record?
If you were married in  Waukesha County, you can get your certified copy at the Register of Deed's office, located at 1320 Pewaukee Rd, Room 110, Waukesha Click here to view/Print request form.

Do one or both of the marriage license applicants have to be American citizens?
No, but one of the applicants must be a resident of Waukesha County, or be out-of-sate residents getting married in Waukesha County.

Are common law marriages recognized in Wisconsin? 
Marriage by proxy is not permissible in Wisconsin. Common law marriages are not recognized in this state ( except if the couple resided in a state that recognizes common law marriages and the couple has attained the status of "legally married" in that state).

Do we have to make an appointment to apply for the license?  
No, it is first come first serve basis during any clerk's office hours.

My spouse and I want to renew our vows.  Do we need to get a license for this?
No license may be granted to persons who are still legally married (even to each other).  If a couple wishes to "reaffirm" their vows, they may do so, but they may not be issued a marriage license for that purpose.

How do we go about renewing our marriage vows?
Talk to your clergyman, chaplain or any other religious advisor.

Do I need to have my divorce papers (or spouse's death certificate) in order to apply for a marriage license? 
If one of the applicants has been married before, they must bring a file stamped copy of the Divorce Judgment, Annulment papers or death certificate from their last marriage.  If the marriage ended in divorce, the divorce must be final for at least 6 months.

Can I legally marry my cousin?
Persons closer in relationship than second cousins may not marry except that first cousins may marry if the female has attained the age of 55 years or where either party at the time of application for marriage license, submits an affidavit signed by a physician stating that either party is permanently sterile (a vasectomy is not considered to be permanent)

Can people obtain licenses to marry partners of their own gender?
Persons of the same sex MAY NOT marry in Wisconsin (definitions of parties marrying are "bride and groom" which are defined as female and male)

Can I get a refund on the license if it is not used?
NO, once the license is created there is no reimbursement.