When and where should I apply for an Ohio marriage license?

Obtaining a marriage license has become a simple process. You don't need to worry about a blood test, this is no longer a requirement. Since requirements can vary from county to county - some counties have a waiting period - it is wise to give them a call before applying for a license.

The following are specific requirements to obtain your marriage license.

• Both parties must go together to the County Courthouse where at least one applicant resides.
• It's best to go about 30 days before the ceremony. The license will be valid for 60 days anywhere in the state of Ohio.
• Bring cash. Most courthouses will not accept checks or credit cards.
• All applicants must provide a Social Security Card and proof of age and identity with a valid driver's license, Passport or Birth Certificate.
• If either party is remarrying, be sure to bring the certificate of divorce or death certificate for the spouse in the prior marriage.
• Both applicants must provide name, age, address, place and date of birth, occupation, social security number, father's name and mother's maiden name.
• If either party is under age 16, call the courthouse to see if further procedures are necessary.

Here is a listing of courthouses in and around the Cleveland area.

Ashtabula County Probate Court
440-576-3453
25 W. Jefferson Street
Jefferson, OH
M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
$45 - cash only

Cuyahoga County Probate Court
216-443-8922
1 Lakeside Avenue, Room 146
Cleveland, OH
M-F 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
$40 - cash only

Geauga County Probate Court
440-285-2222
100 Short Court
Chardon, OH
M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.
$40 - cash only

Lake County Probate Court
440-350-2784
25 N. Park Place
Painesville, OH
M-F 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
$42 - cash only

Lorain County Probate Court
440-329-5176
226 Middle Avenue
Elyria, OH
M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
$44.50 - cash only

Medina County Probate Court
330-725-9703
93 Public Square
Medina, OH
M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
$42 - cash only

Portage County Probate Court
330-297-3870
203 W. Main Street
Ravenna, OH
M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
$45.50 - cash only

Summit County Probate Court
330-643-2345
209 S. High Street
Akron, OH
M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
$40 - cash only

The entire process should only take about a half hour. Good luck, and make sure the best man remembers to bring the license to the ceremony for the presiding official to sign.

Rules and requirements are subject to change. Please contact the appropriate court for further information.