How To Get A Colorado Marriage License: Can Our Dog Sign It?

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Mrs. Ferree Photography

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First of all, congratulations! You’re getting MARRIED!!! You’re ready to make this thing official and amidst all the celebrations is the paperwork to do so. Whether you’re a local or traveling in for your destination wedding, this guide will walk you through how get a Colorado marriage license in the state’s most popular counties.

Did you know Colorado is one of the easiest, and most beautiful, states to get married in? That’s right! There is no waiting period after you get your license meaning you could literally walk out of the Clerk’s office and sign and return it that day! Plus, Colorado is one of the few states that allows for self solemnization. This means, you don’t legally need an officiant or any witnesses to say “I do” – just the two of you! So what are you waiting for? Let’s get you married!

Getting Married in Colorado

As a Colorado Wedding Photographer, I don’t believe my role is just to take pretty photos, but to support you throughout the whole process with resources that answer your questions before you even knew you had them. Many of my couples travel in from out of state for their destination wedding in Colorado’s iconic Rocky Mountains, so I’ve learned just how important understanding the process of obtaining your marriage license here is and want to share this information with you, too. Let’s dive in!

15 Steps To Applying For Your Colorado Marriage License

Research County Requirements:
- Determine which county in Colorado you’ll be applying for your marriage license as requirements may vary.
- Typically, you have 35 days from pickup to sign your marriage license and 60 days to file it, but always double check with the county.
- Pro tip: You don’t have to go to the County clerk’s office that your venue is in – just go to the closest one!
Verify Residency Requirements:
- Confirm if there are any residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license in your chosen county.
- If you are traveling in from out of state, you will want to obtain a Colorado marriage license, not bring one from your home state with you.
Check Eligibility:
- Ensure that both parties meet the legal requirements for marriage in Colorado, including age and marital status.
Gather Necessary Documents:
- Valid identification for both parties (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID).
- Social Security numbers for both parties (some counties may require this).
- If previously married, bring documentation of divorce or death of previous spouse(s).
Complete Application:
- Fill out the marriage license application form accurately and completely. This can often be done online or in person at the county clerk’s office. Most counties require you to submit your online application, then make an appointment to pick up your approved license.
Schedule an Appointment (If Required):
- Some counties may require appointments for marriage license applications, so be sure to schedule one if necessary.
Pay the Fee:
- Be prepared to pay the marriage license fee, which typically ranges from $20 to $30, depending on the county. Payment methods may vary (cash, credit/debit card, or check).
Wait for Processing:
- Allow time for the marriage license to be processed, which usually takes a few business days.
Pick Up the Marriage License:
- Once your marriage license is processed, go to the county clerk’s office to pick it up. Both parties may need to be present.
Review the Marriage License:
- Carefully review the marriage license for accuracy, including names, dates, and any other pertinent information.
Keep The Marriage License:
- Safeguard the marriage license until your wedding day. It’s a vital legal document that you’ll need to bring with you to your ceremony!
Sign the Marriage License:
- On your wedding day, sign your marriage license!
- In Colorado, you don’t need an officiant or witness to sign, but they can if you want them to!
- In some counties, your dog can sign as your witness! Be sure to ask ahead of time as their paw-tograph could invalidate your license if the county does not allow it.
Return Your Marriage License:
- Either in person or via mail, return your signed marriage license to the County Clerk’s Office you received it from.
Request Copies:
- Decide if you want to request certified copies of your marriage license for legal purposes (e.g., name change, benefits, etc.). I recommend obtaining at least 4 copies to have on hand when you are changing your name and accounts later.
Receive Your Certified License:
- Typically, the county will mail you your certified marriage license and requested copies! Then, it’s official and you can officially begin changing your last name!

How to apply for your Colorado marriage license in each county

Adams County Marriage License Application

In Adans County, couples can apply for their marriage license in person at the Adams County Clerk and Recorder’s Office or by submitting an online application. It’s recommended to apply at least 30 days before the wedding date. The fee for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Adams County Clerk and Recorder

Arapahoe County Marriage License Application

In Arapahoe County, couples can apply for their marriage license in person at the Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder’s Office or by submitting an online application. It’s recommended to apply at least 30 days before the wedding date. The fee for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder

Boulder County Marriage License Application

Boulder County offers both online and in-person options for applying for a marriage license. Couples should apply at least 30 days before the wedding date. The fee for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Boulder County Clerk and Recorder

Clear Creek County Marriage License Application

Couples planning to marry in Clear Creek County can apply for their marriage license online or in person at the Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. Applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder

Denver County Marriage License Application

In Denver County, couples can conveniently apply for their marriage license online via the Denver Clerk and Recorder’s website. Applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned either by mail or in person. While your beloved pet can’t sign the license, they’re more than welcome to partake in the celebration!

Apply Here: Denver Clerk and Recorder

Douglas County Marriage License Application

In Douglas County, couples can apply for their marriage license online or in person at the Douglas County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. It’s recommended to apply at least 30 days before the wedding date. The fee for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Douglas County Clerk and Recorder

El Paso County Marriage License Application

In El Paso County, couples can obtain their marriage license by applying online or in person at the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. It’s advisable to apply at least 30 days prior to the wedding. The fee for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: El Paso County Clerk and Recorde r

Gunnison County Marriage License Application

Couples intending to wed in Gunnison County can apply for their marriage license online or in person at the Gunnison County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. The application should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Gunnison County Clerk and Recorder

Jefferson County Marriage License Application

In Jefferson County, couples can apply for their marriage license online or in person at the Clerk and Recorder’s Office. It’s recommended to apply at least 30 days prior to the wedding. The marriage license fee is $30, and it can be returned through mail or in person. While your canine companion can’t sign the license, they’re encouraged to be a part of your special day!

Apply Here: Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder

Larimer County Marriage License Application

Couples intending to wed in Larimer County can apply for their marriage license online to save time or in person at the Larimer County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. The application should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding date. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Larimer County Clerk and Recorder

Ouray County Marriage License Application

In Ouray County, couples can obtain their marriage license by applying online or in person at the Ouray County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. It’s advisable to apply at least 30 days prior to the wedding. The fee for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Ouray County Clerk and Recorder

Park County Marriage License Application

In Park County, couples can obtain their marriage license by applying online or in person at the Park County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. It’s advisable to apply at least 30 days prior to the wedding. The fee for a marriage license is $30 (cash only), and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Park County Clerk and Recorder

Pitkin County Marriage License Application

Couples planning to marry in Pitkin County can apply for their marriage license online or in person at the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. Applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder

Pueblo County Marriage License Application

Couples planning to marry in Pueblo County can apply for their marriage license online, then go in person at the Pueblo County Clerk and Recorder’s Office to pick it up. Applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Pueblo County Clerk and Recorder

San Miguel County Marriage License Application

Couples intending to wed in San Miguel County can apply for their marriage license by submitting the online application, then going in person to the San Miguel County Clerk and Recorder’s Office to pick it up. The application should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: San Miguel County Clerk and Recorder

Summit County Marriage License Application

Couples intending to wed in Summit County can apply for their marriage license by submitting the online application, then going in person to the Summit County Clerk and Recorder’s Office to pick it up. The application should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Summit County Clerk and Recorder

Weld County Marriage License Application

In Weld County, couples can apply for their marriage license by submitting the online application, then visiting the Weld County Clerk and Recorder’s Office in person. The application should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Weld County Clerk and Recorder

Yuma County Marriage License Application

In Yuma County, couples can apply for their marriage license by submitting the online application, then visiting the Yuma County Clerk and Recorder’s Office in person. The application should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding. The cost for a marriage license is $30, and it can be returned by mail or in person.

Apply Here: Yuma County Clerk and Recorder

When should we get our marriage license if we are traveling in from out of state?

In the era of convenience, many Colorado counties offer flexibility in scheduling marriage license appointments, allowing couples to choose between in-person or virtual options. Virtual appointments can be especially beneficial for couples planning destination weddings. Be sure to check with the county you’re applying in to see how far out you need to schedule your appointment. Many of my couples traveling in will obtain their marriage license in Colorado 2-3 days before their wedding at an in person appointment and schedule that appointment 1-2 months in advance.

Can my dog legally sign my marriage license in Colorado?

Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes and pet-friendly policies make it an ideal destination for couples looking to say “I do” in the company of their beloved four-legged friends. If you’re considering getting married in the Centennial State, this guide will walk you through the steps of obtaining a marriage license, including essential information for dog-loving couples who want to include your pup(s) in your ceremony and have them seal the deal with their very own paw print. Yes, you read that right! There are some counties in Colorado that allow your DOG to sign as your WITNESS!

Dog-Friendly Counties for Marriage Licenses:

When it comes to including your furry friend in the marriage license signing, not all counties are created equal. Check with the specific county clerk’s office for their policy on dog participation to ensure a smooth experience as marriage license regulations can be subject to change, and policies do vary from one county to another. Sadly, as of 2024, Denver County no longer allows pups to sign as your witness.

Colorado Wedding Photographer

WHEW. I know this blog was jam packed with info, so congratulations you made it to the end! If you found this blog helpful and are looking for a Colorado wedding photographer to help you navigate not just your photos, but planning the details and logistics of your wedding day, I’m your gal. Hi, I’m Logan and I would be so honored to work with you. I genuinely can’t wait to get to know you!

You can read all about my services here and officially inquire with me here! I’ll be in touch ASAP (no longer than 1 business day) to let you know if I’m available and to officially get started.

In the meantime, check out some of my other planning resources like this one!

Unique Engagement Session Ideas

Engagement Session Fashion Guide

My Favorite Northern Colorado Wedding Venues

Portrait of a Colorado Wedding Photographer Mrs. Ferree Photography