Las Vegas is known for its glitz, glam, and quick weddings elvis wedding vegas. While tying the knot in Sin City is often portrayed as spontaneous and hassle-free, there are still legal steps that every couple must follow to make their marriage official. If you’re planning to get married in Las Vegas, here are the key legal tips to keep in mind to ensure everything goes smoothly.
1. Both Parties Must Be Eligible to Marry
Before you even step into a wedding chapel, make sure you meet the basic legal requirements:
- Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If you’re 16 or 17, you’ll need parental consent and a court order.
- Marital Status: You cannot be currently married to someone else. Divorcees should bring a copy of their final divorce decree just in case.
- Identification: Both parties must present valid, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID.
2. Obtain a Marriage License
You can’t legally get married without a marriage license. In Las Vegas, this process is surprisingly fast and straightforward:
- Where to Go: Visit the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, located in downtown Las Vegas. It’s open every day, including holidays, typically from 8 a.m. to midnight.
- Application: You can speed things up by completing the marriage license pre-application online via the Clark County website.
- Fee: The license costs $102 (as of 2025) and must be paid in person. Debit/credit cards are accepted.
- No Waiting Period: You can get married immediately after receiving your license. No blood test or waiting period is required.
3. Use a Licensed Officiant
Not just anyone can perform your wedding. Make sure your ceremony is officiated by someone who is:
- Licensed in the state of Nevada.
- Registered with the Clark County Clerk’s Office.
Most chapels and wedding venues provide licensed officiants, but double-check if you’re planning something more private.
4. Marriage Certificate – Don’t Forget It
The marriage license allows you to get married, but the marriage certificate is your legal proof that you’re married.
- After your ceremony, the officiant will file your marriage paperwork with Clark County.
- You can order an official copy of your marriage certificate online or by mail for an additional fee.
- This document is essential for changing your name, updating tax information, and applying for spousal benefits.
5. International Couples – Special Considerations
If you’re not a U.S. citizen, your Las Vegas wedding is still legal, but you’ll need to:
- Get a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
- In some countries, you’ll also need an Apostille to validate your marriage certificate for international use. You can request this through the Nevada Secretary of State.
6. Plan Ahead if You Want Extras
While Las Vegas makes it easy to get legally married, extras like professional photography, themed ceremonies (Elvis, anyone?), and luxury venues may require advance planning and reservations—especially on popular dates like Valentine’s Day or New Year’s Eve.
Final Thoughts
Getting married in Las Vegas can be fast, fun, and legally binding—as long as you follow the correct procedures. With just a little planning and a stop at the Marriage License Bureau, you’ll be well on your way to saying “I do” under the bright lights of the Vegas Strip.