Obtaining a marriage license in Montgomery County, Ohio, is a straightforward process, but it requires understanding the county’s rules, documentation requirements, fees, and waiting periods. The Montgomery County Clerk of Courts oversees marriage licenses, ensuring couples comply with Ohio state law before legally marrying.
Who Can Apply for a Marriage License in Montgomery County?
To obtain a marriage license in Montgomery County, couples must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirements: Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. Applicants aged 17 may marry with parental consent and a court order.
- Residency Requirements: There are no residency restrictions; applicants do not need to live in Montgomery County or Ohio.
- Marital Status: Both parties must be unmarried. Proof of divorce or death of a previous spouse may be required if applicable.
- Legal Capacity: Applicants must have the mental capacity to consent to marriage.
The minimum age for applying for a marriage license in Ohio without parental consent is eighteen 18 years of age. View the Exception for 17-year-olds (PDF).
Required Documents for a Marriage License
When applying, couples must provide:
- Valid Photo Identification
- Driver’s license, state ID, or passport
- Proof of Age
- Birth certificate or government-issued ID
- Previous Marriage Information (if applicable)
- Divorce decree or spouse’s death certificate
- Parental Consent Documents (if under 18)
- Court authorization and signed parental consent forms
Bringing all required documents reduces processing delays and ensures the license can be issued immediately.
Application Process
Step by Step:
Step 1: Visit the Clerk of Courts Office
Couples must apply in person at the Montgomery County Clerk of Courts office. The office is located in Dayton, Ohio.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
The application collects personal information, including:
- Full legal names
- Dates of birth
- Social Security numbers (if applicable)
- Current addresses
- Parental information
Step 3: Pay the License Fee
The standard marriage license fee in Montgomery County is $50 to $60, payable by cash, check, or card. The fee may vary slightly based on specific circumstances, such as expedited processing or waived fees for military personnel. pay on official website we do not charge any fee.
Step 4: Receive the License
Once the application is completed and the fee is paid, the clerk issues the marriage license. Couples must note that:
- Ohio has a 3-day waiting period before the license is valid for marriage.
- There is a 60-day expiration period after issuance. The license must be used within this time.
Additional Tips for Montgomery County Applicants
- Same Sex Marriages: Fully legal and processed under the same requirements.
- Out of State Couples: Non-residents can apply; all documentation requirements remain the same.
- Name Change Options: Couples may choose to change their last names on the marriage license for post-marriage legal purposes.
- Ceremony Options: Any authorized officiant (minister, judge, or magistrate) may perform the marriage.
Where to Get the Marriage License
Marriage licenses are issued at the Montgomery County Clerk of Courts office. It is recommended to confirm office hours and requirements before visiting. Early morning appointments or online pre-registration (if offered) may reduce waiting time.
There are three methods to obtain a certified copy of your marriage record.
1. Come to the office where you received your marriage license at 41 N Perry Street, 2nd Floor, Dayton, OH 45402.
2. Request a copy by mail by filling out and sending in a Marriage license Certified Copy Order Form, Marriage License Certified Copy Order Form (PDF) a self-addressed, stamped return envelope along with a certified check or money order or cash for $2 for each copy requested. Mail request to Montgomery County Marriage License Department, 41 N Perry Street, 2nd Floor, Dayton, OH 45422-2155.
3. Request a copy online using a credit card if all of the following are true:
- Your marriage license was obtained in Montgomery County, Ohio.
- You know the exact date of your marriage ceremony.
If the court does not locate a matching record, fees paid for this request are non-refundable. If you are unsure about any information required in the form, please select Option 2: Request by Mail to avoid processing errors.
For marriages recorded after 2002, it is recommended to use the online case search tool to confirm the record exists before placing an order. If there is an issue with your request, court staff will contact you by phone or email to resolve the matter.
The base cost is $3.50 per copy, charged as a convenience fee per transaction.
Payment Processing Fees (Effective December 1, 2020):
- Credit Card: 2.3% of the transaction total (minimum $2.00)
- Debit Card: $2.95 per transaction
- E-Check (ACH): $0.50 per transaction
- Postage & Handling: $1.50 for up to four copies
These fees apply to all online payments and help cover secure processing and delivery of official court records.
You must include the postage in your request or we can not send out your copies. Access the Certified Copies and Payment.
Online Marriage License Registration
After Receiving the License
Once the ceremony is complete:
- The officiant must sign the marriage license and return it to the Montgomery County Clerk of Courts.
- The marriage becomes official once filed with the county.
- Couples may request certified copies for legal or personal use. These copies are often needed for name changes, insurance, or updating financial accounts.
Conclusion
The Montgomery County Clerk of Courts provides a clear and efficient process for obtaining a marriage license in Ohio. By understanding eligibility, bringing the correct documents, paying the required fee, and respecting waiting and expiration periods, couples can ensure a smooth application experience. This legal documentation is an essential step in formalizing a marriage and accessing related benefits such as name changes, tax filing adjustments, and spousal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for a marriage license online in Montgomery County?
Currently, the application must be completed in person, though some preliminary forms may be available online for convenience.
2. Is there an age exception for applicants under 18?
Yes, applicants aged 17 require court approval and parental consent.
3. How long is the marriage license valid?
Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
4. Is there a waiting period before the license can be used?
Yes, Ohio requires a 3-day waiting period before the marriage can be performed.
5. How can I get a certified copy of my marriage license?
Certified copies are available from the Montgomery County Clerk of Courts office after the marriage has been filed.
