Nebraska Marriage License Requirements: Everything You Need to Know

As a South Dakota and Midwest wedding photographer, I’m often the one couples turn to with questions once the legal side of planning begins. If you’re getting married in Nebraska, understanding how to get your Nebraska marriage license is an essential step, but the process is simpler than people think. This guide walks you through Nebraska marriage laws, required documents, costs, and what happens after your ceremony, so you can feel prepared long before your wedding day arrives.

My goal is always to help you feel calm, cared for, and fully present. When the logistical pieces feel overwhelming, that’s where I come in with guidance to make your timeline and your experience flow effortlessly.

What Is a Nebraska Marriage License?

Your Nebraska marriage license is the legal document that authorizes your marriage ceremony within the state. You’ll apply for it at any Nebraska county clerk’s office, and once it’s issued, you won’t need to wait to get married. Nebraska does not have a required waiting period.

Whether you’re planning a heartfelt church ceremony, a downtown celebration, or an intimate gathering on family land, your license is what makes your union official.

Nebraska Marriage License Requirements

Nebraska keeps the process straightforward. When applying for your marriage license, you’ll need:

Valid Photo ID:
A driver’s license, passport, or another government-issued ID for each applicant.

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

No Waiting Period:
There is no waiting period, so you can get married as soon as the license is issued.

No Blood Test Requirement:
Nebraska does not require any medical tests or exams.

Expiration Window:
A Nebraska marriage license is valid for one year from the date it’s issued, giving couples plenty of scheduling flexibility.

Age Requirements:
Both applicants must be 19 or older to marry without parental consent. Couples ages 17–18 may apply with notarized parental consent. No one under 17 may marry in Nebraska.

As you plan your timeline, I’m always happy to share recommendations. Many couples choose to get their license one or two days before their wedding, especially those traveling in from out of state.

How Much Is a Marriage License in Nebraska?

The cost of a Nebraska marriage license is $25 statewide. Most county clerk offices accept cash or card, but it’s always a good idea to check with your specific county beforehand.

With wedding costs adding up quickly, it’s a relief when something is this simple.

Nebraska Marriage Laws You Should Know

Before your ceremony, here are a few important Nebraska marriage laws to keep in mind:

You Can Get Married Anywhere in Nebraska

You can apply for your license in any Nebraska county, and it’s valid throughout the entire state.

Officiants

Nebraska recognizes judges, ordained ministers, and clergy as authorized officiants. Online ordination is also accepted — a meaningful option if you want a friend or family member to marry you.

No Witnesses Required

Unlike many states, Nebraska does not require witnesses to sign your license. This makes it extra flexible for elopements or intimate ceremonies.

No Residency Requirement

You do not need to live in Nebraska to get married there, making it an accessible and welcoming option for destination weddings.

After the Wedding: Your Nebraska Marriage Certificate

Once your ceremony is complete, your officiant will return the signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office. After the county records it, you can request a Nebraska marriage certificate, which is the legal proof of your marriage.

Most couples need this certificate for:

• Name changes
• Insurance and financial updates
• Travel documentation
• Legal records

I always recommend ordering two certified copies so you have backups when you need them.

When Should You Apply for Your Nebraska Marriage License?

Because there’s no waiting period and the license is valid for a full year, couples have a lot of flexibility. Most choose to apply:

• 1–3 days before their wedding if they’re from out of state
• During the week of their ceremony if you’re local
• Earlier in the year if they prefer to handle paperwork well in advance

A Photographer’s Perspective: Creating Ease on Your Wedding Day

One of my favorite things about photographing weddings across the Midwest is how each celebration reflects the couple’s heart. From emotional first looks to family-filled ceremony moments, my role is to create space for connection while ensuring everything — including your legal details — flows smoothly.

I support your planning, coordinate with your team, watch the light, and guide you so you never feel rushed. When the logistical pieces like your marriage license feel clear and manageable, you get to be fully present for the moments that truly matter.

Planning Your Nebraska Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a celebration just across the South Dakota border, Northwestern Nebraska offers some of the most underrated and breathtaking wedding locations in the Midwest. From the rugged rock formations of Toadstool Geologic Park to the historic charm of Fort Robinson State Park, this corner of Nebraska carries a peaceful, untouched beauty that feels perfect for intimate ceremonies and heartfelt gatherings.

As a photographer based in the Black Hills, this region is practically my backyard. I’m familiar with the light, the landscape, and the natural backdrops that make Northwestern Nebraska weddings so special. Whether you’re planning a celebration near Chadron, exchanging vows in Crawford, or hosting a small gathering surrounded by open prairie, I’m here to help you feel at ease from the moment we start planning.

Next Steps:
• Explore my wedding photography collections
• Reach out to start planning your Nebraska wedding experience

View the official Nebraska Marriage laws here.