State guide
Kentucky
Kentucky marriage licenses are issued by county clerks and can be used anywhere in Kentucky, but many clerk offices emphasize that they only issue the license and do not keep an in-house officiant. Kentucky has no waiting period, a 30-day validity window, and requires two ceremony witnesses in addition to the parties and solemnizing person.
Checked against official sources on October 4, 2026. Rules and links change; confirm with the office listed before you act.
- Who issues licenses
- county clerk
- Waiting period
- none
- License valid for
- 30 days
- Witnesses
- 2 required
- License fee
- $50-$60 found on current county clerk pages
Official resources in Kentucky
Official Kentucky marriage chapter covering who may solemnize, who issues licenses, and validity rules.
Official statute describing the marriage license/certificate form and required witness information.
Official statute on in-person application and proof-of-age requirements.
Large-county official FAQ covering fee, no waiting period, validity, and solemnization basics.
County clerk page explaining current fee, witness requirement, and that the office has no on-staff officiant.
Key facts for Kentucky
- County clerks issue Kentucky marriage licenses under KRS 402.100 and KRS 402.210.
- Kentucky has no waiting period or blood test requirement, according to Jefferson and Warren county clerk FAQs.
- Kentucky licenses are valid for 30 days, including the date issued.
- Kentucky requires 2 witnesses in addition to the parties and the person solemnizing the marriage.
- KRS 402.050 allows solemnization by certain officials and by a religious society with no officiating minister if either party belongs.
- Jefferson, Kenton, and Warren county clerk pages say their offices do not perform the ceremony or have no on-staff officiant.
Courthouse ceremonies in Kentucky
| County | Details |
|---|---|
| Fayette County | County clerk timeline sheet lists circuit judges, district judges, and magistrates as government officials who can perform marriages. |
What to do next
- Bring both applicants in person to any Kentucky county clerk office with acceptable government ID.
- Plan the ceremony within 30 days and make sure the completed license is returned to the issuing county clerk.
- If you want a civil ceremony, ask the clerk for published judge or officiant information before the license expires.
Helpful guides
- How to get married at the courthouse
- What to bring when you apply for a marriage license
- Marriage license waiting periods and expiration dates
- Do you need witnesses for a courthouse wedding?