How to Get a Marriage License in Colorado Springs for Your Elopement

If you’re planning an elopement in Colorado Springs, one of the first practical questions you’ll run into is how to get a marriage license in Colorado Springs and what that process actually looks like in El Paso County.

Lauren and Tyler’s elopement at Garden of the Gods is a perfect example of how simple and stress-free this can be when you know what to expect. They wanted an intimate, stylish day focused on each other, not paperwork. With a quick stop at the county clerk, they were legally married and free to enjoy their celebration.

This guide breaks down exactly how marriage licenses work specifically in El Paso County, so you can check this off your list with confidence.

How Marriage Licenses Work in El Paso County, Colorado Springs

If you’re eloping in Colorado Springs or anywhere nearby, you’ll apply for your license through the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder.

You do not need to apply in the same county where you live. You only need to apply in the county where it’s most convenient for you while you’re here.

Many couples eloping at Garden of the Gods stop by the clerk’s office either the day before or the morning of their elopement.

Step 1: Apply Online or In Person

El Paso County allows couples to start their marriage license application online to save time.

Both partners must still appear together in person to finalize and sign the license. Appointments are recommended, especially during busy seasons.

Step 2: What to Bring With You

When you go to the El Paso County Clerk’s office, bring:

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

• Your Social Security number if applicable

• The date your previous marriage ended, if either of you has been married before

You do not need divorce paperwork.

The marriage license fee in El Paso County is $30.

Step 3: No Waiting Period in Colorado Springs

One of the biggest reasons couples choose to elope here is flexibility.

Colorado has no waiting period, which means you can get your license and get married the same day. This makes Colorado Springs perfect for destination elopements and short trips.

Self-Solemnizing in Colorado Springs

Colorado allows self-solemnization, meaning you can legally marry yourselves without an officiant or witnesses.

This is incredibly popular for couples eloping in nature. Lauren and Tyler chose this option so they could exchange vows privately with just the two of them, their photographer, and their dog.

If you prefer, I’m also ordained and can step in to officiate while keeping things relaxed and personal.

Signing and Returning Your El Paso County Marriage License

After your ceremony:

• If you self-solemnize, you’ll both sign the license yourselves

• If you have an officiant, they’ll complete their portion

The completed license must be returned to the El Paso County Clerk within 63 days. You can mail it back or return it in person.

Once processed, you can order certified copies for name changes and legal records.

Tips for Out-of-State Couples Eloping in Colorado Springs

If you’re traveling in for your elopement, here’s what to know:

• You do not need to be a Colorado resident

• Your license is valid statewide, even if you marry outside El Paso County

• Build in time for the clerk’s office, especially around holidays

• Bring a keepsake vow book or decorative copy for photos

If you’re still choosing a location, my guide to Best Places to Elope in Colorado includes several easy-access spots around Colorado Springs.

A Real Colorado Springs Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Lauren and Tyler’s Garden of the Gods elopement showed how smooth the process can be. After picking up their license in El Paso County, they focused entirely on what mattered: sharing vows, laughing together, and soaking in the red rock scenery.

No stress. No rush. Just a meaningful day that felt completely theirs.

Planning a Colorado Elopement Outside Colorado Springs?

If you’re still deciding where in Colorado you want to elope, or you’re planning your day outside of Colorado Springs, I’ve put together a statewide breakdown that walks through how marriage licenses work everywhere in Colorado.

You can read the full guide here: Colorado Marriage License Guide for Elopements Anywhere in Colorado

That guide explains the statewide rules, self-solemnization, county differences, and how the process fits into real elopement days across Colorado.

Ready to Plan Your Colorado Springs Elopement?

If you’re planning an elopement in Colorado Springs and want help with locations, timelines, permits, and the flow of the day, I’d love to help.

📩 Reach out here and tell me what you’re dreaming up.

For a broader overview of statewide rules, you can also read my Colorado Elopement Guide.