$20 fee — low cost. 33-day validity (not 30 or 60 — unique in the US).
Michigan Marriage License — State Rules
Michigan has some of the lowest fees in the Midwest at $20–$30, but one of the most unusual validity windows: 33 days (set precisely by statute, MCL §551.101 — not 30 or 60 but 33). Apply no more than 4 weeks before the ceremony.
Requirements That Apply Statewide
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who issues the license | County Clerk |
| Waiting period | 3 days (waivable by circuit court) |
| License validity | 33 days |
| Fee range | $20–$30 (varies by county) |
| Witnesses at ceremony | 2 required |
| Residency required? | No — Michigan has no residency requirement |
| Both parties in person? | Yes — both applicants must appear together |
| Blood test required? | No — Michigan does not require premarital blood tests |
What to Bring to the County Clerk
- Valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID — driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, military ID, or foreign passport. Both parties.
- Social Security Number — required on the application for both parties. Physical card typically not required. Non-U.S. citizens without an SSN write "None."
- Prior marriage information — date and state the prior marriage ended (divorce or death). For divorces within the past 6 months, bring a certified copy of the divorce decree.
- Fee payment — $20–$30. Cash, card, or money order. Call your specific county to confirm accepted payment methods.
Michigan County Guides
Select your county for the exact office address, hours, fee, appointment requirements, and county-specific procedural detail.
Fee: $20
Fee: $20
Fee: $20
County-by-county guides for all Michigan counties are being expanded continuously. Use our checklist tool for a personalized document list based on your state while additional county pages are added.
Frequently Asked Questions — Michigan
No. Michigan has no residency requirement. You and your partner can apply for a Michigan marriage license regardless of where you live. The license is valid for ceremonies performed anywhere in Michigan.
The waiting period in Michigan is 3 days (waivable by circuit court). This means you must wait this long after receiving the license before holding the ceremony. See our waiting periods guide for the complete statewide comparison and waiver procedures.
A Michigan marriage license is valid for 33 days from the date of issue. If the ceremony does not occur within this window, the license expires and you must reapply and pay the fee again. Use our expiration calculator to find your exact deadline.
No. A Michigan marriage license is valid only for ceremonies performed within Michigan. If your ceremony is in a different state, you must apply for a license in that state. Your home state will recognize any legally performed marriage from another state.