Detroit, MI

Detroit marriage license cost and civil wedding steps

Last updated: 2026 • Official Source ↗

Quick answer

Detroit: For Detroit, the listed marriage license fee is $20. The waiting period is 3 Days, and the license is valid for 33 Days. Use the official source before applying, because local offices can change fees, appointments, and ceremony rules.

License Fee

$20

Wait Time

3 Days

Valid For

33 Days
Ranked #2 of 86 by lowest listed cost, below the $66 average

Detroit marriage license cost and wait time

Detroit's listed marriage license fee is $20. The waiting period is 3 Days, and the license has a 33 Days validity window. Compared with the US city average of $66, Detroit is $46 below average and ranks 2 of 86 for lowest listed cost.

Courthouse or city hall wedding in Detroit

If you are searching for a courthouse wedding in Detroit, start with the marriage license. Civil ceremony appointments, city hall options, officiants, and return rules are handled locally, so confirm ceremony availability with the official office before choosing a date.

Official details can change without much notice. Treat this as a planning guide and verify with the linked office before you apply.

Overview

Wayne County Clerk's Office issues marriage licenses for Detroit. Michigan has a 3-day waiting period. One of the lowest license fees in the country.

1

Requirements

2

Process

01

Visit County Clerk

Go to Wayne County Clerk's Office, 2 Woodward Ave., Detroit.

02

Complete Application

Both parties provide ID and complete the application.

03

Pay the Fee

Pay $20 (residents) or $30 (non-residents).

04

Wait 3 Days

Mandatory waiting period. License valid for 33 days.

How Detroit compares

CityLicense FeeWait Time
Detroit$203 Days
Pittsburgh, PA$273 Days
Des Moines, IA$353 Days
Baltimore, MD$3548 Hours
New Orleans, LA$2724 Hours
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a marriage license in Detroit?

The listed marriage license fee for Detroit is $20. Fees can change, so verify the amount with the official office before applying.

How long does it take to get a marriage license in Detroit?

Detroit: The waiting period is 3 Days. If you are planning a civil or courthouse wedding, build that timing into your date planning.

Can you have a courthouse wedding in Detroit?

Courthouse, city hall, or civil ceremony availability depends on the local office. The marriage license is the first step; use the official source to confirm ceremony appointments and local rules.

Can I waive the waiting period?

A judge may waive the waiting period for good cause.

Why is the fee so low?

Michigan has some of the lowest marriage license fees in the US.

Do I need witnesses?

Yes, Michigan requires two witnesses at the ceremony.