Nevada State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Nevada, also known as The Silver State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a social security number, along with a valid photo ID, which can include a driver’s license, DMV identification card, passport, resident alien card, military identification or a certified/original birth certificate, when applying for a marriage license. Neither blood nor medical tests are required, and there is no waiting period.  If either of the intended were previously married, their former marriage must be final before they will be permitted to wed in the state of Nevada.  In addition, the month, year, city and state of the divorce must be provided.  If the former spouse is deceased, a copy of the death certificate may be requested.  

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Nevada must have at least one parent or legal guardian present when applying for a marriage license.  If that’s not possible, written consent in the form of a notarized document may be accepted providing it is written in English and confirms the name, birthdate and age of the minor requesting a marriage license.  In addition, the relationship of the individual giving consent must be noted in the document.  The notary will be required to confirm that the parent or guardian appeared in person.  Anyone under the age of 16 will require a court order, which can only be requested by a parent or guardian. 

The state of Nevada 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 one year and can be used anywhere in the state of Nevada.  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 fee starts at $35.00 and up, and it is advisable that applicants have cash on hand in the event that credit cards are not accepted. 

Same sex marriage is not permitted in the state of Nevada.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are not recognized in the state.  A wedding can be officiated by a minister or pastor of a recognized religious society or a current/retired Nevada judge. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the sagebrush, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and exciting tourist destinations that would make Nevada a wonderful 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 Nevada marriage certificate, write to: Office of Vital Records and Statistics, Capitol Complex, 505 East King St.,  Room 102, Carson City, NV 89701-4749.  

Code of Nevada

Title 11, Chapter 122 provides information on Nevada marriage laws.