Madison, WI

Madison marriage license cost and civil wedding steps

Last updated: 2026 • Official Source ↗

Quick answer

Madison: For Madison, the listed marriage license fee is $120. The waiting period is 3 Days, and the license is valid for 60 Days. Use the official source before applying, because local offices can change fees, appointments, and ceremony rules.

License Fee

$120

Wait Time

3 Days

Valid For

60 Days
Ranked #82 of 86 by lowest listed cost, above the $66 average

Madison marriage license cost and wait time

Madison's listed marriage license fee is $120. The waiting period is 3 Days, and the license has a 60 Days validity window. Compared with the US city average of $66, Madison is $54 above average and ranks 82 of 86 for lowest listed cost.

Courthouse or city hall wedding in Madison

If you are searching for a courthouse wedding in Madison, 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

Marriage Licenses are processed virtually by appointment only through the Dane County Clerk's Office. A 3-day waiting period applies, but a waiver is available for an additional fee. The license is valid for 60 days after issuance and can be used anywhere in Wisconsin.

1

Requirements

2

Process

01

Schedule Appointment

Schedule a virtual appointment through the Dane County Clerk's Office scheduling system.

02

Gather Documents

Collect all required documents in electronic format (PDF or JPEG).

03

Attend Virtual Meeting

Join the Zoom meeting at the scheduled time with both applicants present (separate locations are permitted).

04

Pay Fee

Pay the $120 license fee at the time of application via credit or debit card.

How Madison compares

CityLicense FeeWait Time
Madison$1203 Days
Jacksonville, FL$933 Days
Miami, FL$933 Days
Philadelphia, PA$903 Days
San Francisco, CA$124no waiting period
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a marriage license in Madison?

The listed marriage license fee for Madison is $120. Fees can change, so verify the amount with the official office before applying.

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

Madison: 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 Madison?

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.

Is there a waiting period?

Yes, there is a 3-day waiting period from the date of application. A waiver is available for an additional $25 fee.

Can I apply if I live outside of Wisconsin?

Yes, applicants living outside of Wisconsin may apply in any county within the state.

Where can I get married after obtaining the license?

You can get married in any county in Wisconsin within 60 days of the license issuance.