How to Obtain a Marriage License in Colorado
Before you say “I do,” at any Colorado wedding venue, there’s one important legal step couples must take —obtaining a marriage license. This article will tell you how to obtain a marriage license in Colorado and provide helpful links.
Before your grand celebration at Bella Sera Event Center, you must secure getting your marriage license to make your marriage official in Colorado. The process is simple but requires attention to a few key details. We will help you with everything you need to know to get your marriage license stress-free and on time in this blog article.
To get marriage license in Colorado, both partners must apply in person at any County Clear and Recorder’s office. Each party must bring valid identification (like a driver’s license or passport), pay $30 – $60 (amount varies by county with cash or credit card payment. There is no waiting period or blood test required, and you can get married the same day.
To get married in Brighton, CO, where our Brighton Wedding Venue “Bella Sera Event Center” is located, you must obtain a Colorado marriage license from the Adams County Clerk
Key Tips to Obtain a Marriage License in Adams County, CO
- No Waiting Period: You can get married the same day you get your license.
- No Officiant Needed: In Colorado, you can legally self-solemnize (perform your own ceremony).
- Location: The Adams County Clerk and Recorder office is located at 4430 S. Adams County Pkwy, Brighton, CO 80601
- Previous Marriages: If you have been divorced or widowed, know the exact date, county, and state of the dissolution
Steps to Obtain a Marriage License in Brighton, CO
1. Complete Application Online: Before visiting, complete the application online to receive a transaction number. Link to online application
2. Make an Appointment: Make an appointment at the Adams County Clerk and Recorder Office, located at 4430 S. Adams County Pkwy, Brighton, CO.
3. Appear in Person: Both parties must go to the office to sign the application.
4. Bring these required items:
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- Valid identification (driver’s license, military ID, or passport). Bring valid identification that includes your date of birth.
- Social Security Number.
- If divorced, you must know the exact date and location of the divorce.
5. Bring payment for the Fee: The marriage license fee varies by county, typically ranging from $30 to $60 depending on the county. Adams County fee is $30
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- Payment Methods Accepted: Accepted payment methods vary; some counties accept cash, credit/debit cards, or money orders. It’s advisable to check with the specific county office for accepted forms of payment.
Once obtained, the Marriage License Must be used within 35 Days:
The license must be used within 35 days of issuance. So, we recommend you add this to your wedding planning checklist to do 30 days in advance of your wedding date.
Return the License to county office:
The signed marriage license must be returned to the county clerk’s office within 63 days of the wedding.
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. If either applicant is 16 or 17, Colorado requires this requires a judicial order, and those under 16 are prohibited to marry in Colorado per per Colorado General Assembly HB19-1316 and Colorado Judicial Branch (.gov).
- Relationship: Applicants cannot be closely related by blood, including first cousins.
- Marital Status: Both individuals must be unmarried at the time of application.
Key Facts:
- Resident Status: You do not need to be a Colorado resident.
- Sign under oath – applicants are required to swear and sign under oath that all information on the application is true and correct to the best of their knowledge
Absent Party Requirements for Marriage Licenses
If one party cannot appear in person to obtain the marriage license, they must fill out an Absentee and have it notarized. The party who does appear in person must bring the completed affidavit and either the absent parties ID or a copy of their ID
Previous Marriage or Civil Union Requirements.
If either person was previously married or in a civil union, they must provide the date, city, and state where it ended. If you don’t know this information, you can call the Adams County Courts at 303.629.1161 for that information.
If the divorce or dissolution took place in another county or out of state, you will need to contact that court to get the date.
If the party to the previous marriage was widowed, the applicate must provide the date, city, and state where the decendent passed.
If either applicant was previously in a civil union, the name of the previous spouse/partner is required.
Getting your marriage license is the legal foundation for your union. By understanding the requirements and planning ahead, you’ll avoid last-minute stress. At Bella Sera Event Center, we’re here to help guide you through every step of the planning process, so you can focus on what matters most: celebrating your love and beginning your forever together.
Links to obtain marriage licenses in other Colorado counties:
Boulder County – marriage license information
Weld County – marriage license information
Denver County– marriage license information
Arapahoe County – marriage license information
Looking for all-inclusive Wedding Venues in Colorado? The Bella Sera Event Center is an award-winning, Italian-inspired wedding venue located at 45 Strong Street, Brighton, CO 80601. We proudly serve couples throughout Brighton, Denver, Thornton, Westminster, Aurora, and Commerce City. Our all-inclusive venue features a breathtaking grand staircase, romantic balconies, and two elegant ballrooms designed for an stress-free, fairytale experience. If you’re ready to start your journey, we’d love to host you for a private tour.
“Tour spots fill up fast on weekends to check availability.” Call or text us at 720-937-6337 or visit us online to learn more about our all-inclusive wedding venue or use our easy system below to schedule a tour now!
“See why engaged couples looking for a locally owned wedding venue north of Denver choose Bella Sera Event Center” Tour Request at Bella Sera Event Center
Conveniently located 20 minutes north of Denver in Brighton, CO
720-937-6337
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Locally owned wedding venues

We have been a locally owned Colorado wedding venue since 2004, offering the most caring and creative service for all of our couples over the past 2 decades. Our all-inclusive venue is located just 20 minutes north of Denver in Brighton, CO. We sincerely hope to encourage engaged couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it is time to book your wedding venue and vendors. Locally owned venues will offer a high level of hospitality, attentive communication & a desire to ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support other locally owned wedding venue owners from around the country with a shout out in our blog!

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