How to Apply for a Marriage License in Louisiana
Marriage license applications in Louisiana are filed through the Clerk of Court in each parish, with the exception of Orleans Parish, where applications are processed through the parish Health Department. There is no statewide online application option; applicants must apply in person at the appropriate office in their parish of residence or where the marriage will take place. Applicants should bring a government-issued photo ID, a certified copy of their birth certificate, and their Social Security number.
Louisiana imposes a 72-hour waiting period between application and license issuance, though this requirement can be waived by a judge in certain circumstances. Orleans Parish operates under a shorter 24-hour waiting period, which is also subject to judicial waiver. Since marriage license fees and specific procedures vary by parish, applicants should contact their local Clerk of Court or Health Department directly to confirm current requirements, fees, and application details before visiting.
- Apply at Clerk of Court (parish); Orleans Parish via the Health Dept (parish-administered).
- Bring government photo ID; certified birth certificate; SSN.
- Pay the license fee (varies by parish (~$27-$55; Clerk of Court / New Orleans Health Dept)); this is county-set, so confirm the amount locally.
Confirm with the issuing office. Hours, appointment rules and accepted documents differ by county. Informational only — not legal advice.
Plan the paperwork around the ceremony
Time the license application to your wedding date: most states have a validity window and some have a short waiting period between issuing the license and the ceremony. Apply early enough that the license is valid on the day — and confirm the exact windows with the issuing county clerk before you lock in plans.
