How to Get Your Chattanooga Marriage License in Preparation for Your Elopement

How to Get Your Chattanooga Marriage License in Preparation for Your Elopement
​

Photo Credit : Lux Amore Photography

If you're planning to elope in Chattanooga, one of the most important steps is securing your marriage license. The process is simple, but knowing what to expect will help ensure everything goes smoothly on your special day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining your Chattanooga marriage license.
​

Where to Get Your Marriage LicenseYou can obtain your marriage license at the Hamilton County Clerk’s Office, located at:


📍 Hamilton County Clerk’s Office
625 Georgia Ave, Room 201
Chattanooga, TN 37402
☎️ (423) 209-6500
⏰ Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM


Marriage License RequirementsTo apply for a Tennessee marriage license, both partners must:
✔️ Appear in person together at the Clerk’s Office
✔️ Provide a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID)
✔️ Know your Social Security numbers (you don’t need to bring the actual card)
✔️ Be at least 18 years old (minors require additional paperwork and parental consent)


Marriage License Fees & Discounts💲 Standard Fee: Approximately $102
💲 Discounted Fee: If you complete a state-approved premarital counseling course, you can receive a $60 discount, bringing the total to $42. You’ll need to provide a notarized certificate of completion from your counselor.


How Long is the Marriage License Valid?Your marriage license is valid immediately upon issuance and remains valid for 30 days. Make sure you plan your elopement within this time frame!


Do You Need Witnesses or an Officiant?👰 Witnesses: Tennessee does not require witnesses for a marriage to be legal.
💍 Officiant: A licensed officiant must perform your ceremony. This can be an ordained minister, judge, or certain other authorized officials.


What to Do After Your CeremonyAfter your elopement, your officiant must sign and return the completed marriage license to the Clerk’s Office. Once processed, you can request certified copies for name changes and legal documentation.


Final Tips for a Stress-Free Elopement✔️ Apply for your license early – You can walk in, but giving yourself a few days of buffer is a good idea.
✔️ Double-check the office hours – Avoid last-minute stress by confirming the Clerk’s Office schedule.
✔️ Bring the right documents – A valid ID is required, and if you’re using the counseling discount, don’t forget the notarized form.


Ready to Elope?Now that you know how to get your Chattanooga marriage license, you’re one step closer to saying “I do”! If you’re still planning your elopement, check our availability here and let Elope Chattanooga make your special day effortless and unforgettable.

We Do, 

Shaun