How do I get a marriage license?

Clerk of the Superior Court (county level - each of Arizona's 15 counties)

Step by Step

How to do it

Both parties visit the Clerk of the Superior Court in any Arizona county (license valid statewide regardless of which county issues it)
Both parties must appear in person and present valid government-issued photo ID
Provide Social Security numbers for both parties
Complete the marriage license application
Pay the fee - receive your license immediately (no waiting period)
Get married within 12 months - license valid for one year from issuance
Officiant and two witnesses (18+) sign the license after the ceremony
Officiant returns the signed license to the issuing county clerk within 10-30 days of the ceremony for recording

Details

What you need to know

Required Docs

Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties (driver's license, passport, military ID)
Social Security numbers for both parties
If previously married: date(s) the prior marriage(s) ended; must be legally divorced before applying
If 16-17 years old: parental/guardian consent and prospective spouse must be no more than 3 years older; emancipation order is alternative
No one under 16 may marry in Arizona

Fee

$83-$98 (varies by county - verify with your specific county clerk before visiting); cash, money order, or card accepted depending on county; some counties do not accept personal checks

Waiting Period

None - license issued immediately upon approval; can marry same day LICENSE VALIDITY: 12 months from date of issuance

Online Option

No - both parties must appear in person at county clerk's office

Where to Go

Clerk of the Superior Court in any Arizona county; license valid statewide

County-specific variations apply

Fee varies by county ($83-$98). Payment methods accepted vary by county - some accept cash only, others accept cards. Verify fee and payment methods with your specific county clerk before visiting. Maricopa County offers online scheduling. Return deadline for signed license varies by county (10-30 days).

Arizona Notes

Important state-specific details

Arizona has no waiting period - you can marry the same day you receive the license.
No blood test required.
No residency requirement - non-residents may obtain an Arizona marriage license valid statewide.
Arizona is a community property state - assets acquired during marriage are jointly owned.
Covenant marriage option: couples may choose a covenant marriage (stronger legal commitment; limited grounds for divorce) for an additional $30 fee.
Two witnesses age 18+ required at the ceremony.
Arizona recognizes marriages performed by judges, justices of the peace, magistrates, ordained ministers, priests, and other authorized clergy.

Official Source

State office contact

State Office

Arizona Secretary of State (for general marriage law info) - azsos.gov; Arizona Superior Court system - azcourts.gov