Your Guide to Getting Wichita Marriage License
Planning a wedding in Wichita or anywhere in Sedgwick County comes with plenty of exciting decisions: the dress, the venue, the flowers, the guest list. But before the big day, there’s one piece of paperwork you can’t skip; your marriage license! The process is simple once you know the steps, and with a little planning, you’ll have it checked off your to-do list in no time. Here’s everything you need to know to get your marriage license in Sedgwick County.
What Court Handles It
All marriage licenses in Sedwick County are handled by the 18th Judicial District Court Clerk, located at:
Sedwick County Courthouse
525 N Main St
Wichita, KS 67203
Before You Apply
To make the process go smoothly, gather the essentials ahead of time:
- Valid government ID- for both parties (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Basic information about each person: name, date of birth, place of birth, addresses
- Payment (as of 9/17/2025 $85.50 plus any applicable fees)
Application Process
- Fill out the application online through the Kansas Judicial Branch Website https://kscourts.gov/Public/Apply-for-Marriage-License
- Submit the details and pay the fee
- Wait 3 business days
- There is a mandatory 3-day waiting period before the license can be issued. Be sure to plan ahead so you’re not rushing right before your ceremony
Once the License is Issued
After the signed license is filed, you’ll want a certified copy for name changes, Social Security, insurance, or other legal matters. Certified copies are issued by the KDHE Office of Vital Statistics, NOT the courthouse.
- Have your officiate fill it out with their information and sign it
- Print your witnesses names on the license (they no longer need to sign)
- $20 per certified copy, plus expedited fees if applicable
- Order online, by mail or in person through KDHE
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until the week of the wedding to apply (remember the 3-day waiting period!)
- Forgetting to bring ID when picking up your license
- Assuming the courthouse issues certified copies
- Not reminding your officiant or yourself to return the license on time
- Changing your name when planning to travel soon- it takes time to get a new passport and drivers license avoid changing your name too soon.
FAQs:
Can I use my Sedwick County marriage license outside the county?
Yes! A marriage license issued in Sedwick County is valid anywhere in Kansas. So whether you’re saying “I do” in Wichita, on a family farm, or at a courthouse in another county, your license will be legally recognized state wide
Can we apply if we don’t live in Kansas?
Yes! Residency is not required. You may apply for a marriage license in any county even if you live out of state, and you can get married anywhere in Kansas.
Who can officiate our wedding?
Judges, ordained ministers, priests, rabbis, and other religious or judicial officials are authorized to officiate weddings in Kansas.
With these steps checked off, you’ll have everything in place to make your marriage official so you can focus on celebrating your big day!
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