Thrilled to have you here! Getting married in Kansas City, Kansas, is an exciting step in your love story. Whether you’re planning a small courthouse ceremony or a picturesque elopement, this guide will walk you through the process of tying the knot in Kansas City.
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Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get married in Kansas City, Kansas.
- Apply for Kansas Marriage License Application Form.
- Pay the marriage license fee is $85.50, with an additional fee for online payments.
- Allow two weeks for your license to be issued after applying.
- Pick Up Your Marriage License.
- Hire an officiant, or self-officiate as permitted by Kansas law.
- Attend your wedding. Woo!
- After the ceremony, return the signed marriage license to the court within 10 days.
- Congratulations! You're officially married!
Wait two weeks after the ceremony to request a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
Getting Your Kansas Marriage License
To apply for your marriage license:
• Use the Kansas Marriage License Application Form.
• Provide basic information such as names, dates of birth, and addresses for both parties.
• No documents or identification are required to apply.
• Pay the fee of $85.50 (credit card: $2.14 fee; e-check: $1.25 fee).
Processing Time: Applications can take up to two weeks, so plan accordingly to ensure your marriage license is ready before your wedding date. The license is valid for six months.
Getting Married at the Kansas City Courthouse
If you’re planning a courthouse wedding:
- Contact the Wyandotte County District Court to confirm judge availability. Judges are not required to perform ceremonies but may choose to do so for a fee.
- The courthouse address is:
- Wyandotte County District Court
- 710 N 7th St, Kansas City, KS 66101
Remember to bring your marriage license on the day of your ceremony.
Using an Officiant in Kansas City
Kansas law allows the following individuals to officiate your marriage:
- Clergy members of any religious denomination.
- Judges or retired judges.
- Self-officiation: You and your partner can marry each other by declaring your vows without an officiant, as long as it meets state requirements.
Once the ceremony is complete, the officiant (or you, if self-officiating) must return the signed marriage license to the issuing court within 10 days.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get married the same day I apply for my license?
No, Kansas requires a two-week processing period before your marriage license is issued. Plan ahead to avoid delays.
How long is the marriage license valid?
Your Kansas marriage license is valid for six months from the date it’s issued.
How do I get a certified copy of my marriage certificate?
You can request a certified copy two weeks after the ceremony through the Kansas Office of Vital Statistics.
What if I don’t have an officiant?
You can self-officiate your marriage in Kansas, as long as the requirements for self-solemnization are met.
Hire a Kansas City Elopement Photographer
Your wedding day deserves to be captured beautifully, no matter how intimate or grand. As a Kansas City elopement photographer, I specialize in creating timeless, heartfelt photos that tell your unique story. Whether you’re exchanging vows at the courthouse or at a scenic outdoor venue, I’ll ensure every moment is preserved for you to cherish forever.
Kansas City Marriage Resources
• Marriage License Application: Kansas Marriage License Application Form
• Wyandotte County District Court: District Court Website