How to Get Married in Oregon for Elopements and Intimate Weddings
Planning an elopement or intimate wedding in Oregon starts with one key step. Your marriage license.
This Oregon Marriage License Guide walks you through how to get married in Oregon without stress, confusion, or legal hiccups. If you’re dreaming of a ceremony in the forest, on the coast, or in the mountains, this is the exact process you need to follow.
You don’t need to be an Oregon resident. No blood tests are required either.
Who This Oregon Marriage License Guide Is For
This guide is for couples who want to get married anywhere in Oregon, including some of our favorites:
- Elopements in the Columbia River Gorge
- Intimate weddings on the Oregon Coast
- Forest ceremonies near Portland or Bend
- Mountain vows in the Cascades
- Elopements right in Downtown Portland
Out of state couples are welcome. Your license works anywhere in Oregon once issued.
Oregon Marriage License Basics at a Glance
Here’s what most couples need to know upfront:
- Cost: About $50 to $68 depending on the county
- Waiting period: 3 days after applying
- Validity: 60 days statewide
- Application: Both partners must appear in person
- Residency: Not required
Once the waiting period passes, you can legally get married anywhere in Oregon.
Eligibility Requirements
Most couples qualify easily.
You must:
- Be 18 or older
- Not be closely related
- Appear together in person
- Bring valid photo ID like a passport or driver’s license
If you were recently divorced, bring your divorce decree details. No medical tests are required.
How to Get Married in Oregon
Simple 4-Step Process
- Step 1. Complete the Online Application – Fill out the marriage license application on the county clerk website where your ceremony will take place.
- Step 2. Visit the County Clerk Together – Both partners must go in person with valid ID. Fees are typically paid in cash.
- Step 3. Wait Three Days – Oregon has a standard three day waiting period before the license becomes active. Some couples qualify for a waiver.
- Step 4. Get Married and File the License – Your officiant signs the license after the ceremony. It is then returned to the county for recording. Certified copies usually cost $7 to $8 each.
Can the Waiting Period Be Waived?
It absolutely can! Sometimes travel schedules, military service, or time sensitive elopement plans mean you’ll need a waiver. The waiver fee ranges from $20 – $25 depending on which county you’re applying in.
Do You Need Witnesses?
Yes. The State of Oregon requires an officiant as well as two witnesses, over the age of 18. If you’re celebrating with just the two of you, we’ll be sure to be your witnesses!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to live in Oregon?
No. Anyone can apply. The license is valid statewide.
Can we apply fully online?
No. Online forms are pre-filing only. Both partners must appear in person.
Can we get married the same day?
Only if you receive a waiting period waiver.
What documents do we need after a recent divorce?
Divorce decree details if finalized within the last 90 days.
Why Couples Work With PNW Intimate Weddings
Marriage licenses are paperwork. Your ceremony is personal.
PNW Intimate Weddings helps couples:
- Stay on timeline
- Avoid county specific mistakes
- Coordinate elopement logistics
- Focus on vows instead of forms
From license guidance to full planning support, we handle the details so you can stay present.
Ready to Get Married in Oregon?
Securing your license is the first step toward your Oregon elopement or intimate wedding. With the right guidance, it stays simple and stress-free.
If you want support beyond the paperwork, we’re here to help.
