Marriage License 101: How to Make Your Las Vegas Elopement Legal
If you’ve decided to elope in Las Vegas — first of all, congratulations! 🎉
Whether you’re exchanging vows on the Strip, in the middle of the desert, or in a charming little chapel, there’s one thing you absolutely can’t skip: making it legal.
In Episode 5 of Your Vegas Elopement, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about getting your marriage license in Las Vegas so you can focus on the fun parts (like picking your outfits and celebrating afterward) without stressing about paperwork.
Why the Marriage License Matters
In the movies, people just show up at a Vegas chapel, say “I do,” and drive off in a pink Cadillac — but in real life, you can’t legally get married here without a marriage license from the Clark County Marriage License Bureau.
It’s the golden ticket to making your vows official, and the best part is — Las Vegas makes it incredibly easy.
Step 1: Start with the Pre-Application
You can save a lot of time by filling out your marriage license pre-application online. It’s available on the official Clark County website and takes just a few minutes. Once you’ve submitted it, you’ll get a confirmation number to bring with you.
Step 2: Bring the Right Documents
When you head to the Marriage License Bureau, make sure you bring:
A valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
Your confirmation number from the pre-application
Payment for the license fee (currently $102, payable by cash or credit card)
That’s it — no blood tests, no waiting period, no mountains of paperwork.
Step 3: Pick It Up in Person
The Marriage License Bureau is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to midnight — yes, even on holidays! Once you’re there, it usually takes less than 30 minutes to get your license.
Step 4: Understand the Rules
A few things to know before you go:
Both of you must appear in person.
You must be at least 18 years old (or have court-approved consent if younger).
Your license is valid for one year from the date you receive it — so you don’t have to get married the same day.
Step 5: Get Married and File Your License
Once you have your license, your officiant will handle the paperwork after the ceremony. They’ll file it with the county so you can get your official marriage certificate.
Why I Love This Process
Las Vegas is one of the easiest places in the world to get married — and that’s why couples from all over the globe choose to elope here. With the right prep, you can go from “let’s do this” to “we’re married!” in a matter of hours.
Listen to the Full Episode
In Episode 5 of Your Vegas Elopement, I walk you through the marriage license process step-by-step, share insider tips, and answer common questions couples have before they get here.
🎧 Listen now to Episode 5 – Marriage License 101: How to Make Your Vegas Elopement Legal
💌 Free Gift for Couples
Planning your Vegas elopement? Grab my Free Vegas Elopement Guide — it’s packed with checklists, location ideas, and insider tips to make your big day stress-free.
