Your Guide to a Stress-Free Wedding in Wisconsin

Step 1 — Set Your Wedding Date First

Before anything else, choose your ceremony date and location. Wisconsin law requires your marriage license application to include:

• The date of your wedding

• The county and city/town/village where the ceremony will take place

• The name and contact information of your officiant (Yes — even for elopements!)

  
  

That means you should already have your plan in place before you submit your license application.

Step 2 — Gather the Required Documents

When you go to apply for your marriage license, each partner will need to bring:

Identification

• Valid, unexpired photo ID (such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or similar document)

  
  

Proof of Current Address

• On your ID, or a utility bill, lease, or similar dated mail with your physical residence listed

  
  

Certified Birth Certificate

• A certified copy issued by the state or county where you were born (hospital birth certificates are not acceptable)

  
  

Social Security Number (if issued)

• You don’t need the physical card, but the number must be shared

  
  

Proof of Previous Marriages (if applicable)

• Final divorce judgment, annulment, or death certificate

• Note: If a divorce was involved, it must be final for at least 6 months before you can remarry in Wisconsin

  
  

Step 3 — Apply for Your Marriage License

Wisconsin requires a waiting period:

• You must apply for your marriage license at least 3 calendar days before your ceremony.

• The license is normally issued on the 4th day after application and is valid for 60 days afterward.

  
  

Practical tip: Many counties recommend applying at least 2–3 weeks before your wedding so you don’t have to pay for a waiting-period waiver and can be sure everything is processed in time. You can sometimes request a waiver of the 3-day wait for an extra fee.

Where to Apply

You can apply for a marriage license at the County Clerk’s Office in any Wisconsin county — not just the one where your ceremony will take place. Once issued, the license is valid statewide. Appointments are usually required and may be offered virtually (such as by Zoom in Dane County) depending on the county.

Step 4 — Have Your Ceremony With an Officiant

To be legally married in Wisconsin, your ceremony must include:

A Legal Officiant

A civil officiant (such as a judge or court commissioner), clergy, or another person ordained according to Wisconsin law can perform your ceremony. You are responsible for arranging the officiant ahead of time.

Witnesses

You must have at least two adult witnesses (18+) present at your ceremony for it to be valid under state law.

Legal Wording

During the ceremony, each person must verbally consent to the marriage (for example, by saying “I do”). This is part of state law requirements.

Step 5 — Sign the License & Return It

After your ceremony:

• You, your officiant, and the witnesses must sign the license.

• It must be returned to the Register of Deeds (or Clerk) within a few days — often around 3 business days after the wedding.

  
  

Once recorded, this becomes your official marriage certificate — your proof of marriage.

Quick Checklist

Here’s a simple timeline for your Wisconsin elopement:

• Choose your ceremony location & officiant before applying

• Collect: photo ID, proof of address, certified birth certificate, Social Security info

• Apply for your license 3–60 days before your ceremony

• Attend your appointment (in person or virtual if offered)

• Wait the required 3 days (or request a waiver if needed)

• Have your ceremony with 2 adult witnesses

• Return the signed license within a few days for your certificate

  
  

Final Tips

• Appointments fill up quickly, especially in busy months — schedule early.

• If a document isn’t in English, a notarized translation must be provided.

• If anyone doesn’t speak English, an independent interpreter must assist — couples can’t translate for each other.

  
  

Embracing Your Unique Love Story

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but remember, it’s about your love story. Embrace the journey. Each step you take brings you closer to a beautiful moment that celebrates your connection.

As you navigate through the legalities, focus on the joy of your commitment. Your wedding day is a reflection of your unique bond. It’s a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you ever feel lost in the details, take a deep breath. You’re not alone. Many couples have walked this path before you, and they’ve found their way to the altar with love and laughter.

Let’s celebrate the beauty of your relationship. You deserve a day that feels intimate, stress-free, and deeply meaningful.

For more information on how to make your wedding day special, consider exploring resources that focus on creating a personalized experience. You can find support and inspiration tailored to your needs.

Remember, your love is what truly matters. Let it shine through every detail of your wedding day.