How to get married in St. Louis, Missouri

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How to get married in St. Louis, Missouri | Courthouse Photographer & Officiant, Marriage license cost

January 18, 2026

couples getting married in St. Louis, Mo

THRILLED YOU’RE HERE! I’m so excited to share everything you need to know about getting married in St. Louis, Missouri!

How to get married in St. Louis, Mo?

Here’s your checklist:

  1. Complete a Marriage License Application at St. Louis Marriage License Portal.
  2. Both parties must appear in person (at the same time) at the Recorder of Deeds office.
  3. Bring valid photo ID (Driver’s License, Passport, or State ID).
  4. Ensure you have $48.00 in cash (no other payment method is accepted).
  5. Pay the $48.00 Marriage License Fee, cash only.
  6. Obtain Your Marriage Certificate and Schedule your Ceremony
  7. Attend Your Ceremony
  8. Return the Marriage License

Congrats! You’re married!

Location

St. Louis County Administration Building

41 S. Central Ave., Clayton, MO | Phone: 314-615-8029

The marriage license section is on the fourth floor.

Visit the Recorder’s Office Together

Office Hours:

• Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

couples getting married in St. Louis, Mo

Getting married in St. Louis, Missouri

You can choose between:

Courthouse Wedding:

Requirements: Marriage license, both partners, and any witnesses (if desired).

Ceremony Fee: Free (civil ceremonies performed by judges as a public service).

Officiant Wedding:

• Use a licensed officiant to marry anywhere in St. Louis.

• After the ceremony, ensure the officiant returns the signed license to the Recorder’s Office.

couples getting married in St. Louis, Mo

After the Ceremony

Return the Marriage License

• Your officiant must return the completed license to the Recorder’s Office.

Get Your Certified Copies

• Request certified copies for legal purposes like changing your last name or updating documents.

couples getting married in St. Louis, Mo

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW LONG IS A MARRIAGE LICENSE VALID IN MISSOURI?

A marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.

CAN YOU GET MARRIED THE SAME DAY YOU APPLY FOR A LICENSE IN MISSOURI?

Yes, there is no waiting period, so you can marry on the same day you pick up your license.

WHAT'S THE COST OF A MARRIAGE LICENSE IN ST. LOUIS?

The cost is $48.00, payable by cash only.

HOW CAN I CHANGE MY LAST NAME AFTER MARRIAGE?

After receiving your certified marriage certificate, you'll need to update your name with the Social Security Administration, your driver's license, bank accounts, and any other legal documents. If you're planning a wedding or elopement in St. Louis, I'd love to capture your special day! Whether you're having an intimate ceremony or a larger celebration, let's connect and create beautiful memories together. !couples getting married in St. Louis, Mo

41 S. Central Ave., Clayton, MO

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