Apply days 6ā25 before ceremony (5-day wait + 30-day validity = narrow window).
Wisconsin Marriage License ā State Rules
Wisconsin's combination of a 5-day waiting period and 30-day validity window creates the most constrained timing of any state. The safe application window is days 6ā25 before the ceremony. Wisconsin also has the highest fees in the Midwest at $110ā$115.
Requirements That Apply Statewide
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who issues the license | County Clerk of Courts |
| Waiting period | 5 days (waivable by circuit court) |
| License validity | 30 days |
| Fee range | $110ā$115 (varies by county) |
| Witnesses at ceremony | 2 required |
| Residency required? | No ā Wisconsin has no residency requirement |
| Both parties in person? | Yes ā both applicants must appear together |
| Blood test required? | No ā Wisconsin does not require premarital blood tests |
What to Bring to the County Clerk of Courts
- Valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID ā driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, military ID, or foreign passport. Both parties.
- Social Security Number ā required on the application for both parties. Physical card typically not required. Non-U.S. citizens without an SSN write "None."
- Prior marriage information ā 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 ā $110ā$115. Cash, card, or money order. Call your specific county to confirm accepted payment methods.
Wisconsin County Guides
Select your county for the exact office address, hours, fee, appointment requirements, and county-specific procedural detail.
Fee: $110
Fee: $115
Fee: $110
County-by-county guides for all Wisconsin 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 ā Wisconsin
No. Wisconsin has no residency requirement. You and your partner can apply for a Wisconsin marriage license regardless of where you live. The license is valid for ceremonies performed anywhere in Wisconsin.
The waiting period in Wisconsin is 5 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 Wisconsin marriage license is valid for 30 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 Wisconsin marriage license is valid only for ceremonies performed within Wisconsin. 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.