Utah State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Utah, also known as The Beehive State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a valid driver’s license, birth certificate or passport, along with their social security number, when applying for a marriage license.  In addition, both the bride and groom must provide their parents’ full names, birthplace and mother’s maiden name.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, and there is no waiting period.  If either of the intended were previously married, the date of the divorce or of their former spouse’s death must be provided. 

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Utah must have a signed parental/guardian consent form. Anyone 15 years of age must have consent from a parent/guardian and permission from a court commissioner or a juvenile judge presiding in the minor’s county of residence.  In addition, the couple may be required to attend premarital counseling.  Utah does not permit those under the age of 14 to be married. 

The state of Utah 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 30 days.  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 ranges from $45.00 to $50.00, 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 Utah.  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, the state’s governor, a justice of the peace, county clerk, current or retired judge or magistrate and other officials approved by the state. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the sego lily, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make Utah 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 Utah marriage certificate, send $9.00 to: Office of Vital Records and Statistics, Utah Department of Health, 288 North 1460 West, P.O. Box 141012, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-1012.

Code of Utah

Title 30, Chapter 1 provides information on Utah marriage laws.