Marriage License Application Process

WHERE TO APPLY

You can apply for a marriage license at the County Clerk's Office in the Lafayette County Courthouse.  It is highly recommended that you make an appointment by calling 608-776-4850.  Regular office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursdays and 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., on Fridays.  The Courthouse is closed Saturdays, Sundays, and Legal Holidays.

WHEN TO APPLY

Application should be made  7  to 10 days before the ceremony.   The License is good for 60 days from date of issuance.

PERSONS WHO MAY NOT APPLY 

• Blood relatives who are nearer of kin than second cousins - except when the female is 55 years of age or older. 
• A person under the age of 16. 
• Persons who have not been divorced for six months, whether the divorce was granted in Wisconsin or elsewhere.

AGE

Every person who has attained the age of 18 years is of age to marry. If a person is between the age of 16 and 18 years, a license may be issued with the written consent of the person's parent(s), guardian, or custodian.  If the minor applicant has two parents, guardians or legal custodians, both persons must sign the consent form.  This form must be executed at time of application before the County Clerk or certified in writing and verified before a Notary Public.

WAITING PERIOD

Three days after application is made, the license is issued and is good for 60 days from this date. 

Special Dispensation: The three day waiting period is required by law but may be waived at the County Clerk’s discretion.  The waiver is issued through the County Clerk.  An additional $25.00 fee is charged.

FEE  

The cost of a marriage license is $75.00.  Cash or check. 

REQUIREMENTS

Both applicants must file at time of application documentary proof of identification and residency.  They must have a certified birth certificate.  If previously married, the copy of death certificate, court annulment papers or signed judgment of divorce is required. 

application PROCEDURE

• Both applicants must be present to make application.
• Three days after application is made, the license will be issued and is good for 60 days from issuance date.
• Residents of the State may apply before the County Clerk of any county in the state.   
• Residents may be married in any county of the state.  Non-residents may apply in any county in Wisconsin and be married in any county in the State.
• Witnesses to a marriage who sign the certificate must be 18 years of age.
• Applicants will need the complete name, mailing address, & phone number of the person who is going to perform the ceremony and the County and Municipality (City, Village or Township) in which the ceremony will be performed.