How to Get Your Marriage License in Colorado for Your Elopement

Eloping in Colorado is one of the easiest—and most beautiful—ways to say “I do.” From the dramatic red rocks of Garden of the Gods to the sweeping mountain peaks near Twin Lakes and Breckenridge, couples come from all over the country to exchange vows surrounded by nature.

When Lauren and Tyler decided to elope at Garden of the Gods, they wanted their day to feel completely true to who they are—intimate, stylish, and free of stress. As their photographer, I loved helping them plan all the small details, including one that every couple needs to know before eloping in Colorado: how to get your marriage license.

Whether you’re a Colorado local or planning your elopement from out of state, here’s a complete guide to getting your marriage license for your Colorado elopement.

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Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Marriage License in Colorado

1. Apply in Person or Online

You can apply for your marriage license at any County Clerk and Recorder’s office in Colorado. You don’t have to apply in the same county where you’ll be eloping.

For example, if you’re eloping at Garden of the Gods, you can get your license from the El Paso County Clerk in Colorado Springs.

Many counties now offer online applications that you can start ahead of time, but both partners must appear in person to sign and show identification when picking up the license.

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2. Bring the Required Documents

Make sure you bring:

• A valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)

• Your Social Security number (if applicable)

• Proof of divorce or widowhood (if you’ve been married before)

The license fee is typically around $30 and can be paid by cash, check, or card, depending on the county.

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3. No Waiting Period

Colorado has no waiting period, which makes it one of the most flexible states for elopements. You can apply for your marriage license and get married on the same day.

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4. Your License Never Expires (Sort Of)

Once issued, your marriage license is valid immediately and must be used within 35 days. After the ceremony, it must be returned to the same county office within 63 days for official recording.

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Self-Solemnization: Why Colorado Is Perfect for Elopements

One of the most unique things about getting married in Colorado is that you can self-solemnize—meaning you don’t need an officiant or witnesses.

This makes Colorado ideal for couples who want a truly private and intimate ceremony. Many couples choose to exchange vows in nature, just the two of them, often accompanied only by their photographer and their dog (just like Lauren and Tyler did).

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Where to Get Your Marriage License in Colorado

You can apply at any County Clerk and Recorder’s Office across the state. Here are a few examples:

• El Paso County Clerk & Recorder – Colorado Springs

• Chaffee County Clerk – Salida

• Lake County Clerk – Leadville (near Twin Lakes)

• Pitkin County Clerk – Aspen

• Jefferson County Clerk – Golden

You can find up-to-date details, hours, and requirements on the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment website.

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Tips for Out-of-State Couples

If you’re traveling to Colorado to elope, keep these in mind:

• You don’t need to be a Colorado resident to apply.

• Apply for your marriage license in any county you arrive in first—it’s valid statewide.

• Make a few copies of your signed license before mailing it back to the Clerk’s office.

• Bring a decorative copy or vow book for photos—you’ll want to capture the moment!

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Final Thoughts

Lauren and Tyler’s elopement at Garden of the Gods was a perfect example of how beautiful and stress-free a Colorado elopement can be. With their all-black outfits, bold style, and genuine laughter, they created a celebration that was uniquely theirs—and legally recognized with just a quick stop at the county office.

If you’re dreaming of your own elopement in Colorado, make sure your marriage license is one thing you can cross off the list early. And if you’d like help planning and capturing your day, I’d be honored to be part of it.

📩 Inquire about your elopement here.