Shelby County Marriage License Records

Shelby County marriage license records are kept by the Shelby County Recorder of Deeds in Shelbyville. This northeast Missouri county has had a Recorder's office since 1835, and marriage records stretch back that far. If you want to apply for a new marriage license or find an old one, the courthouse in Shelbyville is the right place to go. You can also search the Missouri State Archives online database for historical Shelby County marriage license records at no charge. Below are all the steps, fees, and resources you need.

Shelby County Marriage License Office

The Shelby County Recorder of Deeds issues marriage licenses from the courthouse in Shelbyville. Both people must appear in person. Bring a valid photo ID for your marriage license and Social Security card. The staff will walk you through the application. Shelby County walk-ins are welcome for marriage license applications during regular hours.

Shelby County is a quiet, rural county with about 5,900 residents. The Recorder handles marriage licenses, land records, and other county filings. Marriage records in Shelby County go back to 1835 when the county was created. If you need a certified copy of a Shelby County marriage license, the office can pull it from their files. The Missouri Recorders Association lists Shelby County in their statewide directory with contact info and links.

Office hours may be limited in smaller counties. Give them a call before you head to Shelbyville to make sure someone will be there when you arrive.

How to Apply for a Shelby County Marriage License

Missouri requires a three-day marriage license waiting period after filing a marriage license application. This is set by RSMo 451.040. You fill out the application at the Shelby County Recorder's office, then come back in three days to pick up the marriage license. A circuit judge can waive the wait if there is good cause shown. No blood test is needed in Missouri.

Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. Minors between 15 and 17 can apply if a parent or guardian appears and signs per RSMo 451.090. Bring government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. The marriage license fee is about $50.

A Shelby County marriage license lasts 30 days. The wedding can happen anywhere in Missouri. After the marriage ceremony, the officiant signs the license and sends it to the Shelby County Recorder per RSMo 451.120. Under RSMo 451.100, clergy, judges, and certain religious organizations may perform the ceremony.

Search Shelby County Marriage Records

The Missouri State Archives Marriage Database has Shelby County marriage license records from 1805 to 2002. You can search by name at no cost. This free tool is the best way to find older Shelby County marriage records online without visiting the courthouse.

For records after 2002, contact the Shelby County Recorder in Shelbyville. The Shelby County office keeps all local records and issues certified marriage license copies. The Missouri Bureau of Vital Records in Jefferson City also provides certified statements of marriage for $15. These cover marriages from July 1948 forward.

The Missouri Governor's Portal has a good summary of marriage rules across the state. Under RSMo 193.255, only those with a direct and tangible interest can get certified copies of vital records. Family members and the people named on the Shelby County marriage license qualify.

Note: Shelby County marriage license records from before 1948 are only available from Shelby County or the State Archives.

Shelby County Marriage License Copies

Need a certified copy of a Shelby County marriage license? Go to the Shelby County Recorder's office in Shelbyville. Give them the names and approximate date, and they will pull the record. Certified marriage license copies cost a small fee. Call to ask about the current amount and accepted payment methods.

Mail requests work too. Send a letter to the Shelby County Recorder with both names, the marriage date, and a check or money order for the fee. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Most requests are handled within a couple of weeks. The state Bureau of Vital Records also issues certified statements by mail, phone, or VitalChek for $15. These cover marriages from July 1948 forward. VitalChek orders are faster, usually taking five to seven business days.

Shelby County has kept marriage records since 1835. That is a long time. If you are doing family research and need a record from the 1800s, the county may still have it. The State Archives has microfilm copies of many older marriage license records and their online database goes from 1805 to 2002. Both are free to use.

Marriage Law in Shelby County

Missouri treats marriage as a civil contract. Common law marriages are not recognized. You must get a license from the Shelby County Recorder before the ceremony. After the wedding, the officiant signs the license and returns it to the Shelby County Recorder. If this does not happen, your marriage may not be in the official records. Follow up with the person who performed the ceremony to make sure the license was sent back.

Shelby County follows all the same marriage laws as the rest of Missouri. The three-day marriage license waiting period, the age requirements, and the 30-day window to use the license are all set by state law. The Recorder in Shelbyville handles the local paperwork. If you have any questions about the steps, the staff can explain everything when you call or visit.

Nearby Counties

These counties border Shelby County. Each has its own Recorder of Deeds that issues marriage licenses.