Colorado Wedding Laws

What to expect when officiating a wedding.

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Requirements for the Couple

  • Minimum Age: 18 years (16+ with guardian consent)
  • Residency: Not Required
  • Minimum Kin Distance: First Cousins
  • Marriage Equality: Yes

Couples must be 18+ to marry or 16+ with guardian consent. Residency is not required, and first cousins may marry. Same-sex marriages are legally recognized.

Marriage License Requirements

  • License Pickup: By Couple, In Person
  • Validity: Any County in Colorado
  • Cost: $30
  • Accepted ID: Photo ID or Birth Certificate
  • Proof of Divorce: Not Required
  • Blood Test: Not Required

Only one member of the couple must apply in person at the Clerk and Recorder’s office with valid ID. Licenses are valid statewide, and the fee is $30. Divorce proof and blood tests are not required.

Marriage License Facts

  • Ceremony Type: Religious
  • Waiting Period: None
  • License Validity: 35 Days
  • Submission Deadline: Within 65 Days

Couples should obtain a “religious” license for Ministries of Love ceremonies. There is no waiting period, and licenses can be used immediately. They are valid for 35 days and must be submitted within 65 days of the ceremony.

Requirements for the Minister

  • Minimum Age: 18 years
  • Residency: Not Required
  • Documents Required: None
  • Online Ordination Recognized: Yes
  • Registration Office: Clerk and Recorder’s Office
  • Submission Deadline: After Ceremony

Ministers must be 18+ and can be ordained through Ministries of Love. No residency or pre-registration is required. County Clerks may request documentation after the ceremony. Keeping credentials on hand is recommended.

Wedding Ceremony Requirements

  • Marriage By Proxy: Allowed (Military Only)
  • Minister Presence: Required
  • Number of Witnesses: None
  • Witness Age: Not Applicable
  • Consent Required: Yes
  • Pronouncement Required: Yes

Proxy marriages are allowed only for active military members under specific conditions. No witnesses are required. The ceremony must include the couple’s consent (“I do”) and the minister’s pronouncement.

Final Steps

  • Officiant Title: Minister
  • Ordaining Body: Ministries of Love
  • Address: Minister’s Home Address

Ensure the marriage license is completed accurately and signed by all parties. Submit it to the Clerk and Recorder’s office within 65 days. Ministers should maintain records of ceremonies performed, especially if compensated.

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