Free Guide
How to Get Married in Wisconsin
To get married in Wisconsin, both partners apply at any county clerk's office for a marriage license ($90-$120), wait 3-5 days (waivable for $25), and have a ceremony performed by an authorized officiant with two witnesses. This guide from Schwa Potter at Acting Officiant covers everything.
Last updated: February 2026
What Are the Basics of Getting Married in Wisconsin?
- 1 Both partners must apply together at any Wisconsin county clerk's office. You can do this in person or via Zoom through Dane County.
- 2 You can apply in any county and get married in any county. They do not have to be the same county.
- 3 The license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued.
- 4 There is a 3-5 day waiting period after applying. Most counties will waive the waiting period for an additional $25 fee.
- 5 You must be 18 or older to marry without parental consent in Wisconsin.
What Documents Do You Need for a Wisconsin Marriage License?
Both partners need the following documents when applying for a marriage license:
Valid Photo ID
Driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID
Certified Birth Certificate
Government-issued, not the hospital keepsake version
Social Security Number
Just the number. You do not need the physical card.
Proof of Residency
From any state or country. Utility bill, lease, bank statement, etc.
Previously Married?
Bring a certified copy of your divorce decree or your former spouse's death certificate.
International Partners
Bring a certified birth certificate with a notarized English translation. Proof of residency can be from any country.
Officiant Information for Your Application
The county clerk will ask for your officiant's information. Here is what to provide:
- Name: Schwa Potter
- Title: Ordained Minister
- Phone: (414) 375-9838
- Email: schwa@actingofficiant.com
- Address: 777 N Jefferson St, Suite 408 PMB 1116, Milwaukee WI 53202
Which County Should You Get Your Marriage License From?
Dane County: 100% Virtual via Zoom
Apply from your couch. No driving to a courthouse.
Fee
$120
Credit and debit accepted
Waiting Period
4 days
Waivable for $25
Schedule your appointment online, upload your documents ahead of time, and meet via Zoom from anywhere. You can apply in any county and get married in any county, so Dane County's convenience is hard to beat even if your ceremony is in Milwaukee.
How Much Does a Wisconsin Marriage License Cost by County?
Here are the most common counties couples use. Remember, you can apply in any county and get married in any county.
| County | Fee | Waiting Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dane | $120 | 4 days | 100% virtual via Zoom. Recommended. |
| Milwaukee | $110 ($114.50 card) | 4 days | No courthouse ceremonies performed. |
| Waukesha | $110 | 3 days | Appointments required. |
| Racine | $110 | 5 days | Cash only. |
| Kenosha | $110 ($114.50 card) | 4 days | Must apply 5-63 days before ceremony. |
| Jefferson | $110 | 3 days | Offers courthouse ceremonies. |
| Sheboygan | $90 | 3 days | Cheapest option. |
What Happens After the Wedding Ceremony?
Officiant Files the License
After your ceremony, you, your two witnesses, and your officiant all sign the marriage license. Schwa returns the signed license to the county clerk within 3 days. This is included in both ceremony packages at no extra charge.
Order Your Marriage Certificate
About a week after the license is filed, you can order certified copies of your marriage certificate. Order through VitalChek online, by phone, by mail, or in person at any county clerk's office.
Order 3-5 certified copies
$20 for the first copy, $3 for each additional copy. You will need them for:
- Name changes and ID updates
- Bank, insurance, and benefit changes
- Future loans or legal documents
What Are Common Myths About Getting Married in Wisconsin?
"We can get married at Milwaukee courthouse!"
Nope. Milwaukee County issues marriage licenses but does not perform ceremonies. Neither do Washington or Kenosha counties. That is exactly why Schwa's Quickie Ceremony exists. For $300, you get a short, legal ceremony at any location you choose.
"Online-ordained officiants are not legal in Wisconsin"
Completely false. Wisconsin law allows any ordained minister to perform marriages. Online ordination is 100% legal statewide. Schwa has been ordained since 2012 through the Universal Life Church and has performed over 300 legal ceremonies.
"Name changes must be done within two years"
Also false. There is no time limit in Wisconsin. You can change your name any time after marriage. Take your time and do it when you are ready.
"It is too complicated if my partner was born abroad"
Not true. Same process, same requirements. The only difference is that you need a certified birth certificate with a notarized English translation. Proof of residency can be from any country.
What Do You Need on Your Wedding Day in Wisconsin?
Must-Haves
- ✓ Valid marriage license (check the expiration date)
- ✓ Officiant who is legally authorized to perform marriages in Wisconsin
- ✓ Two witnesses who are over 18 years old
Nice-to-Haves
- ☆ Rings (optional but a lovely tradition)
- ☆ Something to wear that makes you feel amazing
- ☆ Tissues for happy tears
- ☆ A camera or someone to take photos
- ☆ A pen (Schwa always brings one, but just in case)
What Is the Fastest Way to Get Married in Wisconsin?
Get your marriage license
Apply at any county clerk. There is a 3-5 day waiting period, but most counties waive it for $25. Dane County offers virtual Zoom appointments.
Book Schwa for a Quickie Ceremony
$300 for a 5-7 minute legal ceremony at any location you choose. Same-day ceremonies available if you already have your license.
Get married
All you need is your license, two witnesses over 18, and Schwa. Your home, a park, an Airbnb, anywhere in Wisconsin.
Ready to Get Married?
Schwa Potter has performed over 300 ceremonies in Wisconsin and beyond. Whether you want something simple or something extraordinary, there is a ceremony for you.
Quickie Ceremony
$300
5-7 minutes. Simple, legal, beautiful. Perfect for elopements and courthouse alternatives.
Learn MoreSignature Ceremony
$800
15-25 minutes. Fully personalized around your love story. Unlimited edits until it is perfect.
Learn More