Kansas State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Kansas, also known as The Sunflower State, must be at least 18 years of age.  Both the bride and groom do not have to be present when applying for a marriage license, but the one present must have all necessary documentation and other information about their spouse in order to complete the application.  A driver’s license, or other valid photo ID, and social security card is required of both parties.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, but there is a three-day waiting period.  If either of the intended were previously married, the date of divorce or death or their former spouse must be provided.  Before remarrying, individuals must wait for 30 days after their divorce is final. 

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Kansas must have either parental/guardian approval or judicial consent, permission from both parents or legal guardian(s) or permission from a judge if both parents are deceased and there is no legal guardian.  Anyone age 15 or younger will not be permitted to marry in the state of Kansas unless a District Court judge approves of the marriage because he/she believes that it is in the minor’s best interest.   

The state of Kansas does not have any residential requirements, which means you can exchange vows even if you are not a resident of the state.  Vacationers, former residents and all others are free to tie the knot here.  Once granted, a marriage license is valid for six months.  Application and/or marriage license fees may vary by county, which means you must check with the local courthouse regarding the actual cost and acceptable payment methods.  The average fee is $75.00, which covers the $50.00 cost for the marriage license plus a $25.00 surcharge, and it is advisable that applicants have cash on hand to cover the costs as most counties require this form of payment. 

Same sex marriage is not permitted in the state of Kansas.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are recognized in the state.  A wedding can be officiated by an ordained minister or judge.  In addition, Kansas law allows “the two parties themselves, by mutual declarations that they take each other as husband and wife, in accordance with the customs, rules and regulations of any religious society, denomination or sect to which either of the parties belong, may be married without an authorized officiating person.”   

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the wild native sunflower, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make Kansas an ideal choice for an upcoming wedding. 

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice.  Marriage laws and requirements can change, which means that you should check with your county courthouse regarding the application process for a marriage license, laws, fees and other requirements.   

To obtain a copy of a Kansas marriage certificate, send $12.00 to: Office of Vital Statistics

Curtis State Office Building, 1000 SW Jackson St., Suite 120, Topeka, KS 66612-2221. 

Kansas Family Code

Chapter 23, Articl 1 provides information on Kansas'' marriage laws.