FAQs

What happens if an officiant does not return the marriage license to the county office?: The officiant is required to return the marriage license to the county Recorder's office that issued the license within 30 days after the marriage takes place. It is a misdemeanor if the officiant does not return the license in the allotted time. (Idaho Code Section 32-402). If the officiant does not return the license, the couple is still legally married, but the county recorder cannot issue a certified copy to the couple because it was never returned.

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Recorder - Marriage

1. How do I get a certified copy of a marriage license?: According to Idaho Statute Title 39, a marriage license does not become public record until 50 years after the date of marriage. However, members of the wedding party may appear in our office and receive certified copies of his or her marriage license, as long as they have identification. Requests can also be made by calling the Bureau of Vital Statistics in Boise. Vital Statistics can be reached at 208-334-5980, or you can visit their website.

2. Who can officiate a marriage ceremony?: Any person recognized as an ordained minister by a reputable church can legally perform a marriage ceremony.

3. Does my officiant need to provide the county with his or her credentials?: No. If there is any question regarding the legitimacy of your officiant, they will be personally contacted by the Bureau of Vital Statistics.

In order to change your name, you must take your identification and a certified copy of your marriage license to several places:

5. Do I need to change my name within a certain amount of time after getting married?: There is no time limit when it comes to changing your name.

6. Do I need an appointment to get a marriage license?: Marriage licenses are issued on a first come, first serve basis from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

7. After visiting the Recorder's Office and receiving our marriage license, are we married?: No. A couple is married once an officiant has performed a marriage ceremony. The couple is legally married after said ceremony.

8. Do I have to get married in Kootenai County if I applied for my marriage license there?: No. You must get married in the state where you received your marriage license, but you can get married in any county in that state.

9. Can my officiant return the license to any county after the ceremony?: No. The marriage license must be returned to the county that issued it to the couple.

10. Does my marriage license expire?: Your marriage license does not expire. It may be used any time after it is issued. However, we recommend applying within a year of your wedding date.

11. What are the requirements for a minor to get married in Idaho?: According to Idaho Code, any person applying for a marriage license who is either 16 or 17 years old must be no less than 2 years younger than his or her partner. They must also be given written, notarized consent by his or her mother, father, or guardian to marry. Furthermore, the minor applicant must submit his or her certified birth certificate as proof of age and relationship to the guardian. Any person under the age of 16 must do the same, as well as receive a court order to marry. All persons involved must appear at the county Recorder’s Office with all described documentation and social security numbers before a license can be issued. Applicants and guardians must also present government issued photo identification.

12. What happens if an officiant does not return the marriage license to the county office?: The officiant is required to return the marriage license to the county Recorder's office that issued the license within 30 days after the marriage takes place. It is a misdemeanor if the officiant does not return the license in the allotted time. (Idaho Code Section 32-402). If the officiant does not return the license, the couple is still legally married, but the county recorder cannot issue a certified copy to the couple because it was never returned.

13. What is the process for receiving a marriage license when one applicant is incarcerated?: Both members of the marriage party must submit a "letter of intent" to the Kootenai County Jail before the Recorder's Office can begin the marriage license process. Once these are received at the jail, a recording clerk will visit the jail to complete paperwork with the incarcerated party. Then the second applicant will visit the Recorder's Office to complete his or her portion of the paperwork. It is then the responsibility of the applicants to coordinate with an officiant and schedule a ceremony.

14. Where do I file for divorces and annulments?: Divorce and annulment papers are filed in the District Court building's Records department. This is located at:
324 W Garden Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814