Wyoming Marriage License Requirements: Everything You Need to Know

As a South Dakota and Wyoming wedding photographer, I’m often the one couples turn to with questions once wedding planning gets real. And one of the first questions is always the same: “How do we actually make our marriage legal?” If you’re getting married in Wyoming, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about Wyoming marriage licenses, state marriage laws, required documents, costs, and what happens after the wedding day.

Consider this your calm, straightforward companion as you prepare for one of the most meaningful parts of your celebration.

What Is a Wyoming Marriage License?

A Wyoming marriage license is the legal document that allows you to get married anywhere in the state. You’ll apply for it in person at a county clerk’s office, and once it’s issued, you’re free to hold your ceremony immediately. Wyoming doesn’t make things complicated, which is one of the reasons couples love marrying in this beautiful, wide-open state.

Wyoming Marriage License Requirements

Wyoming keeps the process refreshingly simple. Here’s what you’ll need when you apply:

Valid ID:
A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, for both applicants.

Personal Information:
Full names, birth information, addresses, and Social Security numbers if applicable.

No Waiting Period:
Wyoming does not require a waiting period. Once your license is issued, you can marry the same day, which is perfect for destination couples or anyone planning an intimate, spontaneous ceremony.

Expiration Window:
A Wyoming marriage license is valid for one year after it’s issued. This gives you plenty of flexibility for your wedding date.

Age Requirements:
You must be 18 or older to marry without parental consent. Wyoming allows some exceptions for ages 16–17 with additional documentation and parental approval, but for most couples, 18 is the baseline.

As you plan, I’m always happy to talk through the timeline impacts. Many couples get their license the day before the wedding, especially for elopements in the Black Hills or near Devils Tower.

How Much Is a Marriage License in Wyoming?

If you’re wondering how much a marriage license is in Wyoming, the answer is nice and simple: $30. The fee is the same statewide, and most offices accept cash or card, depending on the county.

When you’re already juggling wedding budgets, travel, photographers, florals, and outfits, it’s nice when something is this easy.

Wyoming Marriage Laws You Should Know

Beyond the application, Wyoming has a few key laws that couples should know before their ceremony.

You Can Marry in Any Wyoming County

You can apply for your marriage license in any county, and it’s valid anywhere in the state. So even if you’re getting married near Sundance or Jackson, you don’t have to apply there specifically.

Officiants

Your officiant must be authorized under Wyoming law. Many couples choose judges, ordained ministers, or clergy, but Wyoming also recognizes online ordinations, making it accessible if a friend or family member will be leading your ceremony.

Witness Requirement

Unlike some states, Wyoming requires two witnesses at your ceremony. This can be family, friends, or, for elopements, I’m always happy to help coordinate witnesses if needed.

No Residency Requirement

You do not need to live in Wyoming to get married there, making it a wonderful destination wedding option for couples drawn to mountains, open prairie, or the Black Hills.

After the Wedding: Wyoming Marriage Certificate

Your signed marriage license gets returned to the county clerk after the ceremony so they can record it officially. Once processed, you can order a Wyoming marriage certificate, which is the legal proof of your marriage.

Many couples use their certificate for:

• Name changes
• Insurance updates
• Travel documents
• Legal or financial paperwork

I always recommend ordering at least two copies. It’s one of those things you’ll be glad to have on hand months or years from now.

When to Apply for Your Wyoming Marriage License

The best time to apply is typically:

• One to three days before your ceremony if you’re traveling in
• The week of the wedding if you’re local
• Anytime within a year if you simply want to check it off early

Since there’s no waiting period, you have full flexibility. If I’m photographing your wedding, I’m happy to help you build this into your timeline so the experience feels smooth instead of rushed.

Your Photographer’s Perspective: Keeping the Day Stress-Free

One of the things I love most about photographing weddings in Wyoming is how relaxed and intentional the day feels. Whether you’re exchanging vows under a wide bright sky or tucked into a quiet mountain meadow, my goal is always the same: to make the experience effortless.

I work closely with your planner, coordinate timing around the best light, and support you with calming guidance throughout the day. Your marriage license may not be glamorous, but it’s an important part of the story, and now you know exactly how to make sure it’s handled with confidence.

Ready to Plan Your Wyoming Wedding?

If you’re dreaming up a Wyoming ceremony, whether in the Black Hills, Devils Tower, Sheridan, Jackson, or a hidden little spot that feels like yours, I’d love to help capture it.

Next steps:
• Read another planning resource: How to Get Ordained in Less than 5 Minutes
• Explore my wedding photography collections
• Reach out to start planning your wedding day together

Official Wyoming Courts Website