Can You Get a Marriage License and Get Married the Same Day in Arizona?

Deciding you want to marry today? Whether it’s spontaneous or planned, many couples wonder: Can you get married the same day you obtain your marriage license in Arizona? The short answer is yes — in many cases, Arizona allows same-day weddings, but there are steps you’ll need to follow as your ordained minister and Arizona wedding officiant.

1. No Waiting Period for a License

Arizona does not require a waiting period between the time you apply for your marriage license and when you can use it. That means once you’ve got the license in hand, you can have the ceremony that same day — as long as everything is in order.

2. Obtain the License First

To have a same-day wedding, you and your partner must go to the county clerk’s office or court clerk and apply for the license before the ceremony. All requirements must be met at the time of application.

3. What You’ll Need: Identification, Age & More

You’ll need valid government photo IDs (like a driver’s license or passport), and you must meet age requirements under Arizona law. Both parties must be present during the application. If you’re 16-17, there are special rules; if under 16, usually not allowed.

4. No Blood Tests or Medical Exams Required

Unlike some states, Arizona does not require blood tests or medical exams to issue a marriage license. This simplifies same-day arrangements considerably.

5. Fee & Validity of the License

The marriage license fee varies by county (usually around $83-$98 depending where you apply). Once issued, the license is valid for 12 months. If conditions are met, you can marry immediately after getting it.

6. Officiant Must Be Authorized

Your ceremony must be performed by someone legally authorized in Arizona — an ordained minister, judge, justice of the peace, or other recognized officiant. They must sign the license after the ceremony.

7. Witnesses Required

For the license to be valid, you’ll need two witnesses (18+ years old) at the ceremony who will sign the license. If you’re doing a small or same-day wedding, plan ahead to have them present.

8. Timing Is Important

Clerk’s office hours and travel time can impact whether you can get the license and do the ceremony on the same day. Make sure the clerk’s office is open, you have everything in hand, and your officiant is available.

9. Same-Day Weddings Are Common in Certain Counties

Counties like Maricopa, Pinal, Yavapai, and others explicitly allow same-day license issuance and ceremonies as long as you fulfill the requirements. If you’re planning a spontaneous wedding, call ahead to your specific county clerk’s office to confirm hours and requirements.

10. How to Make It Happen with Confidence

• Check the county clerk’s hours and what forms of ID they accept
• Confirm the fee and payment methods
• Make sure your officiant is ready and available the same day
• Arrange witnesses ahead of time
• Double-check that the license is signed and returned after your ceremony (within required timeframe)

You Can Say “I Do” Today

Yes — Arizona makes it possible to get your marriage license and have your wedding on the same day. With no waiting period, minimal requirements, and an authorized officiant by your side, your dream of a spontaneous “I do” can become a beautiful, legal moment. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Scottsdale, the East Valley, or anywhere in Arizona, I’m here to help make it official — when the moment feels right.

✨ Your Love Story, Your Ceremony, Your Way.