How to Legally Get married in Colorado

Getting married in Colorado is simple, flexible, and ideal for couples seeking either a traditional ceremony, or an intimate elopement. Whether you live in Colorado or are visiting from out-of-state, knowing how to legally get married in Colorado is the first step to ensuring your marriage is recognized by law.

This guide covers everything from obtaining a marriage license, age and legal requirements, self-solemnization, and returning the signed license.

Step 1: Obtain a Marriage License in Colorado

Before your marriage can be legal, you must obtain a marriage license from a County Clerk & Recorder office. Colorado does not require you to be a resident, making it a popular destination for elopements and destination weddings.

Requirements for a Marriage License

• Fee: Typically $30, though it may vary slightly by county. (Denver Clerk & Recorder)
• Identification: Both partners must provide valid ID such as a driver’s license, passport, state ID, or military ID. (US Marriage Laws)
• Previous Marriages: If either person has been married or in a civil union before, you must supply details of the previous marriage or civil union (date, place, and court/civil-union information).
• Application Process: Many counties allow walk-in applications, while others require appointments. Some counties permit absentee affidavits if one partner cannot appear in person.
• County Choice: You can apply in any county in Colorado, regardless of your residence.

Pro tip: Check your chosen county’s website for exact procedures, accepted forms of payment, and any other specific requirements.

Step 2: Age and Other Legal Requirements

Colorado has straightforward requirements for marriage:

• Minimum Age: 18 or older.
• Blood Test: No longer required.
• Residency: Not required; anyone can apply.

Step 3: Colorado has No Waiting Period

One of Colorado’s biggest perks is that there is no waiting period. You can marry as soon as you obtain your license. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for couples who need to apply for the marriage license the day-of, although I don’t recommend waiting until the last second – it’s better to go in a few days in advance! The license needs to be used with 35 days of receiving, otherwise you will have to reapply.

Step 4: self-solemnize or have an officiant

Colorado does not require you to have an officiant or witnesses making it one of the easiest states to get married in. If you are someone who has a hard time wrangling their emotions or staying on track I recommend an officiant. solemnization is a great option for couples who want to keep things simple and private.

Officiated Ceremony

• Conducted by a judge, magistrate, authorized official, tribal official, or clergy member. Not required in Colorado but can be a nice addition to your ceremony.

Self-Solemnization (Self-Uniting)

• Couples can legally marry themselves without an officiant.
• Witnesses are not required.

Step 5: Return the Signed License for Official Recording

After your ceremony, your marriage license must be returned to the issuing County Clerk & Recorder to be legally recorded.

• Deadline: Typically within 63 days after the ceremony.
• Late Fees: Vary by county; some assess $20–$50 if submitted late.
• Certified Copies: Once recorded, you can request official certified copies for name changes, insurance updates, or personal records.

Why Couples Love Colorado for Weddings and Elopements

Colorado’s marriage laws make it a top destination for couples seeking freedom, flexibility, and simplicity.

Benefits

• Affordable: License fees are low, typically around $30.
• Accessible: No residency requirement for applicants.
• Flexible Timing: No waiting period; use the license immediately.
• Privacy: Self-solemnization allows private ceremonies, with no officiant or witnesses necessary.
• Variety of Locations: From courthouses to mountaintops, riversides, and national parks, the options are endless for where you can say “I do” in Colorado.

Planning Your Colorado Wedding or Elopement

If you’re eloping or planning a destination wedding in Colorado, here are a few tips to make the process smooth:

• Choose your county wisely: Some counties have more convenient hours or simpler procedures.
• Check requirements in advance: Ensure you have all ID and documents ready to avoid delays. Make sure you now if you need an appointment or not.
• Plan around the license validity: Schedule your ceremony within the 35-day window.
• Consider self-solemnization: Perfect for remote locations or private ceremonies.

Tip for couples: Combining your legal paperwork with an elopement adventure ensures you have both a legally binding ceremony and an unforgettable memory.

Final Thoughts

Colorado makes it easy for couples to legally get married with flexibility, affordability, and options to match any style of ceremony — from courthouse weddings to private elopements in the mountains. By following these steps, you can confidently complete all legal requirements and focus on creating a meaningful, unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re planning a small intimate ceremony, a luxury elopement, or an adventurous wedding, knowing the legal steps ensures your marriage is recognized while keeping your experience stress-free and enjoyable.