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Marriage

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1. What is needed to get a marriage license?

(Any documents not in English must be translated and notarized)

* Both applicants must present proof of identification. This is a valid (not expired) driver’s license or State photo ID.

 * Both applicants must provide proof of residency, if a current address is not shown on the valid driver’s license, a utility bill or government mail addressed to that person, paystub, or bank statement would be acceptable. 

*Both applicants must provide Social Security numbers.

*Certified Birth Certificates:  All applicants must present a state certified birth certificate. If you were born in Wisconsin, you can obtain a state certified birth certificate from any Register of Deeds in the State.  Please do not bring in any of the following: hospital certificate (usually with footprints), baptismal certificate, notification of birth registration, or a photocopy of a birth certificate, as these are not acceptable.

*Divorce Papers or Death Certificates-see clarification below.

*Date of Ceremony- wedding date must be set before applying for license.

*Officiant-You will need to know the name, address, telephone number and email of the person performing your wedding ceremony.

2. How much is the fee for a marriage license?

The fee for a marriage license is $100, payable at time of application. CASH ONLY. 

3. When should I apply for a marriage license?

Application should be made at least 5 days before the wedding (due to the 3 day waiting period) but not more than 65 days before the wedding. 

4. How long is the marriage license valid?

A marriage license is valid for 60 days. Counting starts the day after issuance and ends on day 60. 

5. We are out of state residents: can I apply in Ozaukee County for a license?

Yes, out of state residents can apply in Ozaukee County and get married anywhere in the State of Wisconsin. 

6. Can there be exceptions to the waiting period requirement?

Please contact our office to discuss your situation regarding waiting period exceptions.

7. Do both parties have to be present at the Ozaukee County Clerk’s Office to apply for a license?

Yes, both applicants must apply together.

8. Are we required to have a blood test?

No, Wisconsin does not require blood tests in order to get married. 

9. How long does it take to get the license?

The approximate time is 15-20 minutes if you have all the correct paperwork that is required.

10. Do we need an appointment?

Yes, applications taken by appointment only,  Monday through Friday. 

11. Can we get an application ahead of time?

It is not possible to receive the application ahead of time. The information is entered directly into computer at time of application. 

12. How do I get information on being married by a judge?

You can get information by contacting the Clerk of Courts Office at 262-284-8409 or 262-238-8409.

13. Do one or both of the marriage license applicants have to be American citizens?

It is not required for one or both of the applicants to be American citizens. One of the applicants must be a resident of Ozaukee County, or be out-of–state residents getting married in Ozaukee County.

14. My spouse and I would like to renew our marriage vows: Do we need to get a license for this?

A license is not needed because a license cannot be granted to persons who are still legally married. If a couple wishes to reaffirm their vows, they may do so, but a license cannot be issued for that purpose. 

15. Can I get married by a judge and then later married in a church?

You can get married by a judge and then later marry in a church. You will need the license for the Judge and that day will be your wedding date. Getting married in a church would be like renewing your vows. 

16. Do I need to have my divorce papers or spouse’s death certificate in order to apply for a marriage license?

Yes. If either of the applicants has been married before, they must bring a file stamped copy of the divorce judgment, annulment papers, or certified death certificate from their last marriage. The divorce must be final for at least 6 months. 

17. Can I legally marry my cousin?

Persons closer in relationship than second cousins may not marry. First cousins may marry if the female has attained the age of 55 years or where either party at the time of application for marriage license, submits an affidavit signed by a physician stating that either party is permanently sterile. 

18. Can I get a refund on the license if it is not used?

Once the license is created (which is the day of application) there is no refund.