How To Obtain A Marriage License In Cuyahoga County
Planning your wedding comes with a long (and exciting!) to‑do list, and obtaining your marriage license is one of the most important steps. If you’re getting married in Cuyahoga County — whether you live here or are traveling from out of state — this guide will walk you through the process in a clear, stress‑free way.
This is often couples’ first time navigating marriage license logistics, so we’ve broken everything down step by step.
Step 1: Complete Online Pre‑Registration
All couples must complete online pre‑registration before appearing in person.
Pre‑registration is mandatory.
It allows you to enter most of the required information ahead of time.
Once completed, you’ll receive a confirmation number and next‑step instructions.
Your registration is valid for 90 days. If you don’t appear in person within those 90 days, you’ll need to re‑register.
Step 2: Visit the Probate Court in Person
After completing online pre‑registration, both partners must appear together in person at the Cuyahoga County Probate Court to obtain the marriage license. Keep in mind:
No appointment is required, however, payments are not processed after 4:15 PM. We strongly recommend arriving earlier in the day to avoid being turned away.
This visit is not a ceremony.
You must stay present together for the entire issuance process.
Limited Zoom appointments are available for medically compromised applicants.
Interpreter services are available with advance notice.
What to Bring With You
Be sure to arrive prepared. Each applicant must bring:
A valid government‑issued photo ID
Social Security number
Your online pre‑registration confirmation number
Payment for the license fee
marriage license fee
The marriage license fee is $60.
Accepted payment methods:
Cash
Money order or cashier’s check
Credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express)
Credit/debit payments include a $2.95 convenience fee.
If Either of You Was Previously Married
You’ll need:
A certified copy of the most recent divorce decree
Divorce dates, locations, and case numbers
Note: Divorce decrees cannot be obtained through the Marriage Department. You must request certified copies from the court where the divorce was finalized.
License FAQs
How Long Is the License Valid?
Your marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued.
You must hold your ceremony within that 60‑day window.
Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 or older
Applicants who are 17 years old require:
Juvenile Court consent
Marriage counseling
Additional waiting periods before the license can be issued
If either applicant is under 18, contact the Marriage License Department directly for guidance.
Residency Rules (In‑State + Out‑of‑State Couples)
If at least one partner lives in Cuyahoga County, you may apply here regardless of where your ceremony takes place.
If neither partner lives in Ohio, you must apply in the county where your ceremony will be held.
After the Ceremony
Filing the Marriage Certificate
Once you’re married, there’s one final step that must be handled by your officiant.
Your officiant must complete and sign the Marriage Certificate Return.
It must be filed with the Probate Court within 30 days of the ceremony.
The return can be:
Dropped off in person
Mailed to the Marriage Department
Timely filing is important, especially if you’ll need proof of marriage soon after your wedding.
Getting Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
Certified copies are often needed for name changes, benefits, or legal records.
Cost
$2.00 per certified copy
How to Request
Online: Once the license has been filed and recorded
By mail: Submit the certified copy request form with payment and a self‑addressed stamped envelope. Mail requests currently have an approximate two‑week turnaround time.
Final Tip for Couples
We recommend applying for your marriage license 3–6 weeks before your wedding date. This gives you plenty of flexibility while staying well within the 60‑day validity window.
If you have questions or need clarification, the Cuyahoga County Probate Court Marriage Department is your best resource — and we’re always happy to help guide you as well.
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