Marriage Certificates

We are open by appointment ONLY.

Please Book Here

Marriage License Application Information

The marriage license application needs to be filled out online. The application does not need to be printed by the applicants, we will print it out for you when you come in to the Government Center. Signatures and social security numbers will be collected at the time of completion and the fees will be needed at that same time. To apply for a marriage license both parties must appear in person to complete the eMarriage Application. The license is valid for a period of 6 months. You will be provided one certified copy at no charge. Applicant's must provide proof that they are at least 18 years of age. 

Issuance

Both applicants shall appear at the Sherburne County Government Center in Elk River to take an oath and pay the fee within 14 days of filling your application. Licenses applied for at the Government Center will be issued immediately to the applicants and the marriage may occur on the same day.

Reduced Fees

You can qualify for a reduced marriage fee if both parties have completed at least 12 hours of premarital education.

In order to qualify for the reduced license fee:

1. Attend 12 hours of premarital education.
2. Obtain a signed and dated Educator’s Statement (PDF) printed on the educator’s letterhead certifying that both parties have attended premarital education.
3. Ensure that the Educator’s Statement is either notarized or under the church seal
4. Submit the statement when applying for a marriage license.

Authorization

The premarital education must be provided by a licensed or ordained minister or the minister’s designee, a person authorized to solemnize marriages under section 517.18, or a person authorized to practice marriage and family therapy under section 148B.33. The education must include the use of premarital inventory and the teaching of communication and conflict management skills.

Download the Reduced Marriage Fee Educator’s Statement (PDF).