Getting a Tennessee marriage license: the simple version.
A practical overview for couples planning a ceremony in Tennessee. Use this to understand the process, then confirm the details with the Tennessee county clerk issuing your license.
1. Get a Tennessee marriage license before the ceremony
Tennessee marriages are licensed through county clerks. For a ceremony performed in Tennessee, obtain a valid Tennessee marriage license before the officiant solemnizes the marriage.
2. Check the issuing county clerk’s current requirements
County clerks handle the application process. Office locations, hours, identification requirements, online pre-applications, accepted payment methods and local procedures can change. Check the clerk’s official information before you travel.
3. Ask about fees and premarital-course rules
Tennessee collects state and local marriage-license taxes and fees. The state describes an additional fee that may be waived for qualifying out-of-state applicants or couples who complete an approved premarital course and provide the required certificate. Your issuing county clerk can tell you the current total for your situation.
4. Bring the license to the ceremony
The officiant needs the marriage-license paperwork so it can be completed correctly after the ceremony.
5. Follow the clerk’s return instructions
After the ceremony, the completed license must be returned/processed according to the issuing county clerk’s instructions. Keep any certified copies you later obtain in a safe place.
Planning an East Tennessee destination ceremony?
If you are traveling to Knoxville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Maryville or another East Tennessee destination, decide which Tennessee county will issue your license and verify its process before your trip. Do not assume your venue or officiant issues the license.