How to Get a Marriage License in Arkansas (2025) | Conway & Cabot Wedding Venue

How to Get a Marriage License in Arkansas (2025 Guide)

Planning a wedding in Central Arkansas? Here’s exactly how to get a marriage license in arkansas—plus local tips from a Conway/Cabot wedding venue.

Quick facts (what most couples ask)

Where to apply: Any Arkansas county clerk’s office. You can use the license anywhere in the state, but you must return it to the county that issued it.
Fee: Typically $60 (cash or card; card fees may apply—varies by county).
IDs: Valid, government-issued photo ID for both applicants; some counties also ask for a birth certificate (often for ages 18–20/21) or Social Security card.
Waiting period: None for adults 18+. (Under-18 applicants have a 5-business-day wait and additional requirements.)
Validity: License is good for 60 days. Return it to the issuing county clerk for recording (used or unused).
Witnesses: Not required in Arkansas.
Blood test: Not required.

Step-by-step: getting your Arkansas marriage license

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to get a marriage license in Arkansas from start to finish:

Pick your county clerk’s office
You can apply in any Arkansas county—Faulkner (Conway), Lonoke (Cabot), Pulaski (Little Rock), etc. You’ll receive a license you can use anywhere in the state, but you’ll return it to the county that issued it after the ceremony.
Bring the right documents & payment
- Government-issued photo ID for both of you.
- In some counties: birth certificate if you’re 18–20/21; Social Security card may be requested.
- $60 license fee (cash; many counties accept cards with a small processing fee).
Apply together, in person
Both applicants must be present. Most clerks are open Mon–Fri, business hours. (Check your county for exact times and any appointment requirements.)
Get your license (same day for 18+)
There’s no waiting period for legal-age adults, so you can marry the same day if you wish. Under-18 applicants face a 5-business-day wait and additional consent rules.
Have your ceremony anywhere in Arkansas
An ordained minister (with credentials recorded in an Arkansas county) or a Justice of the Peace can officiate. Witnesses aren’t required here.
Return the license within 60 days
In Arkansas, the couple (not the officiant) is responsible for returning the completed license to the issuing county within 60 days for recording.

Central Arkansas tips (Conway • Cabot • Little Rock)

Faulkner County (Conway): $60; both present with photo ID. Some ages may be asked for a birth certificate.
Lonoke County (Cabot): $60; ID and Social Security card; ages under 21 often need a birth certificate.
Pulaski County (Little Rock): $60; valid photo ID; no waiting period for 18+.

Pro move: call ahead to confirm hours, accepted payment types, and any county-specific document quirks.

After the wedding: getting copies & changing your name

Once your license is recorded, you can order certified copies of your marriage record from the Arkansas Department of Health (handy for name change, Social Security, passport, etc.). Copies typically start around $10 plus small processing fees.

Covenant Marriage (optional)

Arkansas offers a Covenant Marriage option that involves premarital counseling and has different divorce requirements. Ask your county clerk for the form if you’re interested.

Frequently asked questions

Do we need witnesses in Arkansas?
No. Arkansas does not require witnesses.

Can we apply online?
Some counties provide pre-application forms online, but you still need to appear in person together to receive the license. Check your county clerk’s website for details.

How long is the license valid?
60 days from issuance—then return it to the issuing county.

Is there a blood test?
No blood test is required in Arkansas.

If you’re planning more than just the paperwork and want a scenic, stress-free celebration, our lakefront venue in Central Arkansas can help with timelines, vendor coordination, and everything beyond how to get a marriage license in Arkansas—schedule a tour at C&C by the Lake.