Do You Need Witnesses to Get Married in Arizona?

When planning a wedding in Arizona, many couples ask: Do we need witnesses to make it legal? The answer is yes — and understanding this requirement is an important step in preparing for your big day. Whether you’re eloping in Phoenix, hosting a resort wedding in Scottsdale, or planning a simple ceremony in Mesa, here’s everything you need to know about Arizona’s witness requirements.

1. The Simple Answer

Yes. Arizona law requires two witnesses to be present at your wedding ceremony. Both must be at least 18 years old and must sign the marriage license along with the officiant and the couple.

2. Why Witnesses Are Required

Witnesses serve as neutral parties who confirm that the ceremony took place legally. This step helps prevent disputes about the marriage’s validity and ensures everything complies with Arizona law.

3. Who Can Be a Witness?

Witnesses can be friends, family, or even strangers — as long as they are 18 years or older and capable of signing their names on the marriage license.

4. What They Sign

After the ceremony, the witnesses sign the Arizona marriage license alongside the officiant and both spouses. This makes the marriage legally binding.

5. Do Witnesses Have to Be U.S. Citizens?

No. The only requirement is age (18+). Visitors, relatives from abroad, or anyone legally present at your ceremony can serve as a witness.

6. What If You Don’t Have Witnesses?

If you’re planning a small elopement or same-day wedding, you must still arrange two witnesses. Some venues and officiants (including Arizona wedding officiants like us) can help provide witnesses if needed.

7. How Witnesses Add Meaning

Many couples choose close friends or relatives to serve as witnesses, adding sentimental value to their signatures. For some, it’s a way to honor parents, siblings, or lifelong friends.

8. Do Courthouse Weddings Require Witnesses?

Yes. Even if you marry at the courthouse in Maricopa County, you’ll still need two witnesses present. The Clerk’s office will not waive this requirement. (Maricopa County Clerk of Superior Court)

9. Tips for Choosing Witnesses

• Pick people you trust to be present and on time.
• Make sure they’re comfortable signing legal documents.
• Consider honoring someone special in your life.

10. Finalizing Your Marriage

Once the witnesses have signed, your officiant will return the marriage license to the county clerk within 10 days. From there, you can request a certified copy for your records. For more details, see our Maricopa County marriage license guide.

Witnesses Make Your Wedding Legally Complete

While vows, rings, and emotions make a wedding unforgettable, witnesses make it official in the eyes of Arizona law. By choosing two people you trust to stand by your side, you not only meet the legal requirement but also add meaningful signatures to your marriage story. With the guidance of an Arizona wedding officiant, your ceremony will be both heartfelt and legally binding.

✨ Your Love Story, Your Ceremony, Your Way.