The Marriage License Department, a part of the County Records Department, is responsible for issuing and recording all marriages. To obtain a marriage license, both applicants must be present and apply together. No appointment is necessary.
Applying for a Marriage License
The fee for a marriage license is $60 payable by cash or credit card. Applicants 18 or older must complete an application and present a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or military ID) showing their correct name and date of birth. If an applicant’s name has changed through a divorce and his/her photo ID does not reflect this change, he/she will need a certified copy of his/her divorce decree. The decree must state that his/her name has been restored to his/her original name.
Conducting Marriage Ceremony By Authorized Individual
Ministers performing marriages in the State of Arkansas must have their credentials recorded with a County Clerk’s Office in the State of Arkansas prior to performing a wedding ceremony. A few of the Pulaski County Justice of the Peace members officiate marriage ceremonies for a fee.
Returning Completed License
After the ceremony, the original marriage license must be returned to our office for recordation, whether used or unused, within sixty (60) days of issuance. Certified copies of marriage licenses bearing the county clerk’s seal are also available for $5.00 and can be picked up in person from our department or mailed through the US Postal Service. They cannot be emailed.
There are two options to pay:
Online Payment
Mail checks or money orders with the names of the parties to:
Pulaski Circuit and County Clerk
Marriage License
401 West Markham St. Ste 103
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Clerk’s Office issue marriage licenses?
Marriage licenses are issued Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary. All applicants must be present and together when the marriage license is issued. A Power of Attorney is unacceptable for issuing a marriage license.
How much does a marriage license cost?
The fee for a marriage license is $60.00, cash or credit card (no checks). No refunds will be issued. For credit card transactions, our credit card processing vendor will charge an additional transaction fee per marriage license.
How old do I have to be to get a marriage license?
In Arkansas, applicants must reach the age of 18 years to contract for a marriage license without parental consent.
What documents do I need to bring with me to get a marriage license?
Applicants 18 or older must present a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or military ID) showing their correct name and date of birth. If an applicant’s name has changed through a divorce and their photo ID does not reflect this change, they will need a certified copy of the divorce decree. The decree must state the applicant’s name was restored to their original name.
How much time do I have to bring back my marriage license?
The marriage license must be returned to our office for recordation, whether used or unused, within sixty (60) days of issuance.
Is a blood test required?
No.
Is there a waiting period before I can get married after applying for a marriage license?
There is no waiting period for applications where all applicants are 18 or older. There is a five-business-day waiting period for all underage (under 18 years of age) applications for marriage licenses.
Do I have to be a resident of Arkansas to get a marriage license in Pulaski County?
No.
I’m a minister. Do I have to do anything with the Clerk’s Office before performing a wedding?
The minister’s credentials must be recorded with a County Clerk’s Office in the State of Arkansas before the wedding ceremony is performed.
Does the Clerk’s Office officiate marriage ceremonies?
No, our office does not officiate marriage ceremonies. Please see the link for a list of the Justices of the Peace who will perform the ceremony for a fee.
Resources
- Authorization to Record Minister’s Credentials (signed by minister)
- Authorization to Record Minister’s Credentials (signed by designee)
- Covenant Marriage Form
