Scott County Marriage License Search

Scott County marriage license records are on file with the Scott County Recorder of Deeds in Benton. Located in southeast Missouri, Scott County has kept marriage records since it was first organized in 1822. Whether you are looking to get married and need a license or want to track down an older marriage record, the Scott County Recorder's office in Benton handles it all. You can also search for Scott County marriage license records through the Missouri State Archives online. This marriage license page covers the full process from start to finish.

Scott County Marriage License Office

The Scott County Recorder of Deeds issues all marriage licenses in Scott County. The Scott County office is located in the courthouse in Benton. Both Scott County marriage license applicants must appear in person. Bring a valid photo ID for your marriage license and your Social Security card. Walk-ins are accepted during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

Scott County sits in the Missouri Bootheel region and has a population of about 38,000. Sikeston is the largest city in Scott County, though the county seat is Benton. The Recorder handles marriage licenses alongside land records and other county documents. Scott County marriage records date back to 1822 when the county was organized. The office keeps all those records and can provide certified marriage license copies when you need them. Check the Missouri Recorders Association for the Scott County Recorder's phone number and address.

The marriage license fee for a new marriage license is around $50. Call the Scott County office to get the exact amount and make sure you have the right documents before your visit.

Apply for a Scott County Marriage License

Missouri law sets a three-day marriage license waiting period between applying and picking up a marriage license. This comes from RSMo 451.040. You file the marriage license application at the Scott County Recorder's office in Benton, then return after three days. A circuit judge can waive the wait if there is a good reason. No blood test is required in Missouri.

Applicants must be 18 or older to apply without parental help. Those aged 15 to 17 can apply with a parent or guardian present to sign consent per RSMo 451.090. Both people need a government photo ID and Social Security number.

Once issued, a Scott County marriage license lasts 30 days. The wedding ceremony can be held anywhere in the state of Missouri. After the marriage ceremony, the officiant must sign the license and return it to the Scott County Recorder under RSMo 451.120. Clergy in good standing, judges, and recognized religious groups can perform ceremonies per RSMo 451.100.

Search Scott County Marriage Records

The Missouri State Archives Marriage Database has Scott County records from 1805 to 2002. This free tool lets you search by name across all counties in the state. It is a great starting point for finding older Scott County marriage license records and doing genealogy work.

For more recent records, contact the Scott County Recorder directly. The Scott County office has all local marriage records and issues certified marriage license copies for a fee. The Missouri Bureau of Vital Records in Jefferson City also provides certified statements of marriage for $15 each. These cover marriages from July 1948 to the present and show the names, date, and county.

Under RSMo 193.255, only people with a direct and tangible interest can get certified copies of vital records. Family members and those named on the license qualify. The Missouri Governor's Portal provides more details on how marriage and divorce records work across the state.

Note: Scott County marriage records from before July 1948 are only available through the county office or the State Archives.

Scott County Marriage License Copies

Getting a certified copy of a Scott County marriage license is straightforward. Go to the Scott County Recorder's office in Benton with the names and date. Staff will find the record and print a certified copy for you. There is a fee for each copy. Cash and checks are usually accepted.

If you cannot visit Benton, you can request a copy by mail. Send a letter to the Scott County Recorder of Deeds with both names, the marriage date, a check or money order, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Most requests take about two weeks. The state Bureau of Vital Records offers certified statements for $15 through VitalChek or by mail. These cover marriages from July 1948 forward.

Sikeston is the largest city in Scott County and many couples who live there file for their marriage license in Benton. Even though Sikeston is bigger, the county seat is Benton, and that is where all county government business takes place. The drive is not far, and the Scott County office runs smoothly.

Marriage Law in Scott County

Missouri law considers marriage a civil contract. Common law marriages are void. You need a license from the Scott County Recorder of Deeds before you can marry. After the marriage ceremony, the officiant returns the signed marriage license to the Scott County Recorder. If the license does not come back, the marriage may not be on the official record. Always follow up to make sure this step is done.

Scott County has been part of Missouri since 1822. The county follows the same marriage laws as the rest of the state. The three-day marriage license waiting period, ID requirements, and 30-day license validity are all statewide rules. The Recorder in Benton handles the local side of things and can answer any questions you have about the process.

Nearby Counties

These counties border Scott County. Each has its own Recorder handling marriage license applications.