How to Get Married in Phoenix AZ: License and Venue Guide

Getting married in Phoenix, Arizona, is a dream for countless couples seeking sun-drenched ceremonies, vibrant desert landscapes, and a streamlined legal process. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement at South Mountain Park, a grand reception at a historic hotel downtown, or a casual garden wedding in Scottsdale, understanding the legal and logistical steps is essential to ensuring your big day unfolds without stress. This comprehensive guide walks you through every phase of marrying in Phoenix — from securing your marriage license to selecting the perfect venue — with clear, actionable advice backed by current Arizona state law and local regulations. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to plan a legally valid, beautifully executed wedding in one of the most popular wedding destinations in the Southwest.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Determine Eligibility to Marry in Arizona

Before beginning the application process, both parties must meet Arizona’s legal requirements for marriage. You must both be at least 18 years old. If either party is 16 or 17, written consent from a parent or legal guardian is required, along with a court order from a judge. Individuals under 16 cannot marry under any circumstances. Neither party can be currently married to someone else — bigamy is illegal and voids any subsequent marriage. You must also be mentally competent to consent to marriage. There is no requirement for residency; out-of-state and international couples are welcome to marry in Phoenix. Blood tests are not required, and there is no waiting period after obtaining your license.

Step 2: Choose Your Marriage License Office

In Phoenix, marriage licenses are issued by the Maricopa County Clerk’s Office. While there are multiple locations across the county, the main office for couples in Phoenix is located at:

Maricopa County Clerk’s Office – Downtown Phoenix

401 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85003

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on weekends and county holidays)

Alternative locations include the Northwest Regional Office (10101 N 24th St, Phoenix) and the Southeast Regional Office (8050 S Rural Rd, Tempe). All locations issue the same license and follow identical procedures. Choose the location most convenient for your schedule. Online appointments are recommended to avoid long wait times and are available through the Maricopa County Clerk’s official website.

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

Each applicant must present valid, government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms include:

• Driver’s license or state ID card
• Passport
• U.S. military ID
• Permanent resident card (Green Card)

If either party has been previously married, you must provide documentation of the termination of the prior marriage. This includes a certified copy of a divorce decree, annulment decree, or death certificate of the former spouse. If documents are in a language other than English, a certified translation must accompany them.

For non-U.S. citizens, a valid passport is sufficient. A Social Security number is not required but may be requested for statistical purposes. If you’re using a name change after marriage, you’ll need to provide your current legal name as it appears on your ID.

Step 4: Complete the Marriage License Application

Both parties must appear together in person to complete the application. No proxies or third parties are allowed. The application form asks for full legal names, dates of birth, places of birth, current addresses, parents’ full names (including mothers’ maiden names), and the intended marriage date. You’ll also be asked to indicate whether you intend to change your surname after marriage. The clerk will review your documents, verify your identity, and collect the fee.

Step 5: Pay the Marriage License Fee

As of 2024, the fee for a marriage license in Maricopa County is $83. Payment is accepted in cash, credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover), or money order. Personal checks are not accepted. The fee is non-refundable, even if the ceremony is canceled or postponed. The license is valid for one year from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere in Arizona. It cannot be transferred to another state.

Step 6: Schedule Your Ceremony

Once you have your license, you can schedule your wedding ceremony. You have two options: officiated by a licensed religious or civil authority, or a self-uniting ceremony (not recognized in Arizona). Arizona law requires that a qualified officiant solemnize the marriage. Qualified officiants include:

• Ordained ministers, priests, rabbis, or other religious leaders
• Arizona judges, justices of the peace, or municipal court judges
• Notaries public who have completed a one-time registration with the county clerk

You can hire a professional wedding officiant, ask a friend or family member to become ordained online (through organizations like the Universal Life Church or American Marriage Ministries), or request a judge to perform the ceremony. Many courthouses offer short civil ceremonies for a small additional fee. Check with the Maricopa County Clerk’s Office for availability and scheduling.

Step 7: Conduct the Ceremony

The ceremony must occur within the one-year validity period of your license and within the state of Arizona. There is no minimum duration required by law — a brief exchange of vows is sufficient. Both parties and the officiant must sign the license in the presence of at least one witness who is 18 or older. The witness does not need to be related to either party and can be a friend, family member, or even a hired professional. The officiant is responsible for returning the signed license to the County Clerk’s Office within 30 days of the ceremony. Failure to do so may delay your official marriage record.

Step 8: Obtain Your Certified Marriage Certificate

After the signed license is filed, it typically takes 4–6 weeks for the Maricopa County Clerk’s Office to process and issue your official certified marriage certificate. You can request copies in person, by mail, or online through the county’s official portal. The first certified copy costs $26, and additional copies are $5 each. This document is required for name changes, updating Social Security records, applying for spousal benefits, and other legal purposes. Keep it in a safe place — you’ll need it for years to come.

Step 9: Update Legal Documents and Accounts

Once you receive your certified marriage certificate, begin updating your personal records. Key items to update include:

• Social Security Administration (SSA) for name change
• Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for driver’s license and vehicle registration
• Bank accounts and credit cards
• Employer HR department for payroll and benefits
• Insurance policies (health, auto, life)
• Passport and other government-issued IDs
• Utility bills and subscriptions
• Online accounts (email, social media, streaming services)

Keep a copy of your marriage certificate with each update request. Some institutions may require the original, while others accept certified copies. Always confirm the required documentation beforehand to avoid delays.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead — Especially During Peak Seasons

Phoenix is a year-round wedding destination, but spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the busiest times due to ideal weather. During these months, popular venues book up six to twelve months in advance. If you’re aiming for a weekend ceremony, start planning at least 8–10 months ahead. Weekday weddings (Tuesday–Thursday) are not only less expensive but also offer greater availability and flexibility with officiants and vendors.

Book Your Officiant Early

Professional wedding officiants in Phoenix are in high demand. Many have waiting lists of several months. If you want a personalized ceremony — with custom vows, cultural elements, or thematic elements — book your officiant as soon as you secure your license. Don’t assume a friend can officiate unless they’ve completed the required registration. The process to become a registered notary officiant in Arizona is straightforward but takes 2–3 weeks to process.

Understand Venue Restrictions

Public parks, historic sites, and nature reserves in Phoenix often require permits for weddings. For example, South Mountain Park and Preserve requires a special events permit from the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. The fee ranges from $100–$500 depending on group size and amenities used. Similarly, botanical gardens like the Desert Botanical Garden require you to use their in-house catering and event coordination. Always confirm permit requirements, noise ordinances, and cleanup rules before booking. Violations can result in fines or cancellation.

Prepare for Arizona’s Climate

Phoenix experiences extreme heat from May through September, with temperatures often exceeding 105°F. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, schedule it for early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 5 PM). Provide shaded areas, fans, water stations, and sunscreen for guests. Consider having a backup indoor location. Many couples opt for “two-part” weddings — a sunrise desert ceremony followed by an evening reception in an air-conditioned venue.

Confirm License Validity and Location

Your Maricopa County marriage license is valid statewide, but it must be used in Arizona. If you plan to have your ceremony in another county — say, Sedona or Flagstaff — your license is still valid. However, the officiant must return the signed license to the Maricopa County Clerk’s Office, not the local county clerk. If you’re unsure, ask your officiant to confirm the return process. Missing this step means your marriage won’t be legally recorded.

Use a Wedding Planner or Coordinator

Even for small weddings, a day-of coordinator can save hours of stress. In Phoenix, many venues require you to hire a coordinator if you’re not using their in-house team. A coordinator ensures timelines are met, vendors arrive on time, and the license is properly handled. Their fee typically ranges from $500–$1,500, depending on services. For couples on a budget, consider hiring a coordinator for just the day of the ceremony.

Document Everything

Take photos of your signed marriage license before handing it to the officiant. Keep a digital and printed copy. Save all receipts, permits, and correspondence with vendors and government offices. These records may be needed for future legal matters, immigration applications, or estate planning. Consider creating a wedding binder or digital folder to organize all documents.

Consider Cultural and Religious Requirements

Phoenix is home to a diverse population. If your wedding includes cultural or religious traditions — such as a Hindu ceremony, Jewish chuppah, or Indigenous blessing — ensure your officiant is familiar with or willing to incorporate them. Many local officiants specialize in multicultural weddings. Communicate your needs clearly during the booking process. Some venues may have restrictions on certain rituals (e.g., fire ceremonies, sand pouring), so verify in advance.

Tools and Resources

Official Government Resources

• Maricopa County Clerk’s Office – Marriage License Portal: https://www.maricopa.gov/1499/Marriage-License — The official source for application forms, fees, office hours, and appointment scheduling.
• Arizona Supreme Court – Officiant Registration: https://www.azcourts.gov/Portals/0/Forms/SupremeCourt/NotaryOfficiantApplication.pdf — Download the form to become a registered notary officiant.
• Arizona Department of Health Services – Vital Records: https://www.azdhs.gov/prevention/vital-records/index.php — For ordering certified copies of your marriage certificate after filing.

Wedding Planning Tools

• WeddingWire and The Knot — Search Phoenix-specific vendors, read reviews, compare pricing, and book venues and photographers. Both platforms offer budget calculators and checklists.
• Google Maps — Use to scout venues, check traffic patterns, and identify nearby parking or public transit options for guests.
• Canva — Design your own invitations, seating charts, or signage with free templates tailored to desert-themed weddings.
• Dropbox or Google Drive — Create a shared folder for all wedding documents: licenses, permits, contracts, vendor contacts, and timelines.
• TimeandDate.com — Check sunrise/sunset times for your chosen date to plan outdoor ceremonies effectively.

Local Phoenix Wedding Vendors and Venues

• Desert Botanical Garden — A top-rated venue with native desert flora, indoor and outdoor options, and full-service coordination.
• Phoenix Art Museum — Offers modern, art-filled spaces ideal for chic, urban weddings.
• Arizona Biltmore — Iconic resort with multiple ceremony sites, luxury accommodations, and extensive catering.
• South Mountain Park and Preserve — Free public space for elopements; requires permit for groups over 10.
• Old Town Scottsdale — Historic district with rooftop terraces, courtyards, and boutique venues.
• Phoenix Civic Plaza — Offers free civil ceremonies by appointment with a judge (limited availability).

Recommended Officiant Services

• Arizona Wedding Officiants — A network of experienced, licensed officiants specializing in secular, interfaith, and multicultural ceremonies.
• Love & Light Ceremonies — Based in Phoenix, known for personalized, heartfelt vows and quick booking.
• Universal Life Church (ULC) Ordination — Free online ordination; register with Maricopa County as a notary officiant to legally perform ceremonies.

Legal and Administrative Resources

• SSA Name Change Form — https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf — Required to update your Social Security record after marriage.
• Arizona DMV Name Change Guide — https://azdot.gov/motor-vehicles/driver-license/name-change — Step-by-step instructions for updating your driver’s license.
• USCIS Marriage-Based Immigration — For international couples: https://www.uscis.gov/family/family-us-citizens/spouse

Real Examples

Example 1: The Desert Elopement — Sarah and Jamal

Sarah and Jamal, a couple from Chicago, wanted a simple, intimate wedding in Arizona. They applied for their marriage license on a Monday morning at the Downtown Phoenix Clerk’s Office, bringing their passports and divorce decrees. They paid the $83 fee and scheduled a civil ceremony for the next day at 7:30 AM at South Mountain Park. They hired a local officiant through Arizona Wedding Officiants for $250, who met them at the trailhead with a witness. They exchanged vows as the sun rose over the mountains, with only two friends present. The officiant returned the signed license within a week. They received their certified certificate in five weeks and used it to change their names on all accounts. Their total cost: under $1,200, including flights and a small reception at a café.

Example 2: The Grand Resort Wedding — Elena and Marcus

Elena and Marcus planned a 120-guest wedding at the Arizona Biltmore for October. They booked the venue 14 months in advance, securing their preferred date and package. They obtained their license two weeks before the wedding. They hired a professional officiant who incorporated elements from their Mexican and Irish heritage. The venue provided catering, florals, and a coordinator. They paid $22,000 total, including accommodations for out-of-town guests. Their license was returned by the officiant on the day after the wedding, and their certificate arrived in four weeks. They hosted a second celebration in New York for family who couldn’t travel — using the certified certificate to validate their marriage.

Example 3: The DIY Wedding — Priya and David

Priya and David, both from Phoenix, wanted a low-cost, meaningful ceremony. David became ordained through the Universal Life Church. Priya registered him as a notary officiant with Maricopa County — a process that took 18 days. They applied for their license, paid the $83 fee, and held their ceremony in their backyard on a Saturday afternoon. They invited 15 guests and asked a neighbor to serve as witness. They purchased a $150 wedding cake and made their own invitations. The officiant mailed the license back the same week. They received their certificate in six weeks and used it to add each other to their health insurance. Total cost: $450.

Example 4: The International Couple — Amara and Luca

Amara, a citizen of India, and Luca, an Italian national, met while studying in Arizona. They applied for their license using their passports and student visas. They had a ceremony at the Desert Botanical Garden with a Hindu priest officiating. The venue required them to use their catering and audiovisual services. They paid $1,800 for the ceremony package and $83 for the license. The officiant returned the license promptly. After receiving their certified certificate, Amara applied for a marriage-based green card through USCIS. Her application was approved in 11 months. Their marriage certificate was the cornerstone of their immigration documentation.

FAQs

Can I get married in Phoenix if I don’t live in Arizona?

Yes. Arizona does not require residency. Couples from any state or country can obtain a marriage license in Maricopa County and get married anywhere in Arizona.

Do I need a witness to get married in Phoenix?

Yes. Arizona law requires at least one witness who is 18 years or older to be present during the ceremony and sign the marriage license. The witness does not need to be related to either party.

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

If you have all required documents, the process takes 15–30 minutes. Appointments reduce wait times significantly. Same-day issuance is standard.

Can I get married on a weekend in Phoenix?

Yes. The Maricopa County Clerk’s Office is closed on weekends, but you can obtain your license Monday–Friday and schedule your ceremony for any day, including weekends. Many officiants and venues operate on weekends.

What if I lose my marriage license?

If the license is lost before the ceremony, you must return to the Clerk’s Office to request a duplicate. A fee of $10 applies. If lost after the ceremony, you’ll need to request a certified copy of your marriage certificate after it’s filed.

Can I change my name on my marriage license?

You can indicate your desired name change on the application form, but the license itself won’t reflect the new name. Your certified marriage certificate is the legal document used to change your name on other records.

Is same-sex marriage legal in Phoenix?

Yes. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Arizona since October 2014, following federal court rulings. All marriage laws apply equally regardless of gender.

Can I use a marriage license from another county in Phoenix?

No. Marriage licenses are issued by county and are only valid in the state of Arizona. If you obtained your license in another Arizona county (e.g., Pima or Yavapai), it’s still valid in Phoenix. But a license from another state is not valid in Arizona.

What if I’m not a U.S. citizen?

Non-citizens can marry in Phoenix using a valid passport. A visa or green card is not required to obtain a license. However, marriage does not automatically grant immigration status — additional legal steps are required through USCIS.

Are there any restrictions on wedding themes or decorations?

Public venues may restrict open flames, glitter, or large structures. Private venues set their own rules. Always confirm with your venue before ordering decorations. For example, sand or flower petals may be prohibited in desert parks to protect native flora.

Can I get married at the courthouse in Phoenix?

Yes. The Phoenix Municipal Court and Maricopa County Superior Court offer civil ceremonies by appointment. Fees range from $25–$100. These are brief, 10–15 minute ceremonies with a judge. No guests are typically allowed, but you can request exceptions.

How do I know if my officiant is legally registered?

Ask for their registration number from the Arizona Supreme Court. You can verify their status by calling the Clerk’s Office or checking the online registry. Unregistered officiants cannot legally solemnize marriages.

Conclusion

Getting married in Phoenix is more than just a legal formality — it’s the beginning of a new chapter in one of the most vibrant, scenic, and welcoming cities in the Southwest. By following the steps outlined in this guide — from securing your license to choosing a venue that reflects your personality — you ensure your wedding is not only beautiful but also legally sound. Whether you’re planning a quiet sunrise elopement amid the saguaros or a grand celebration under chandeliers in Old Town, the key to success lies in preparation, attention to detail, and using the right resources. Remember: your marriage license is your foundation. Treat it with care. Your certified certificate is your proof of union — keep it safe. And most importantly, enjoy every moment. Phoenix offers the perfect backdrop for love stories of all kinds. With this guide as your roadmap, your Arizona wedding will be as seamless as it is unforgettable.