Warren County Marriage License

Warren County marriage license records are filed with the Warren County Recorder of Deeds in Warrenton. This growing county sits just west of St. Charles County and has kept marriage records since 1833. If you need to apply for a new marriage license or search for one that is already on file, the Warren County Recorder's office in the courthouse handles it. You can also search the Missouri State Archives online for historical Warren County marriage license records. Here are all the details you need to get started.

Warren County Marriage License Office

The Warren County Recorder of Deeds issues all marriage licenses in the county from the courthouse in Warrenton. Both people must appear in person with valid photo ID and Social Security number for the marriage license application. The Warren County office is open Monday through Friday and accepts walk-ins.

Warren County has grown steadily as the St. Louis metro area has expanded westward. The county now has about 35,600 residents. Warrenton is the county seat and the hub for all county government business. The Recorder handles marriage licenses, land records, and other filings. Marriage records go back to 1833. If you need a certified copy of any Warren County marriage license, the staff can search the files and issue one for a fee. The Missouri Recorders Association lists Warren County in their statewide directory.

Call the Warren County Recorder's office before your visit to verify hours and the current marriage license fee.

Apply for a Warren County Marriage License

Under RSMo 451.040, Missouri has a three-day marriage license waiting period after you submit a marriage license application. Apply at the Warren County Recorder's office and return in three days to pick up the marriage license. A circuit judge can waive this marriage license waiting period for good cause. Missouri does not require a blood test.

Both people must be at least 18. Those between 15 and 17 need a parent or guardian present to sign per RSMo 451.090. Bring a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. The marriage license fee is around $50.

A Warren County marriage license stays valid for 30 days. The ceremony can happen anywhere in Missouri. The officiant signs the license and sends it back to the Warren County Recorder per RSMo 451.120. Under RSMo 451.100, clergy, judges, and recognized religious organizations can perform the wedding.

Note: Warren County marriage license fees may change, so confirm with the office before your visit.

Search Warren County Marriage Records

The Missouri State Archives Marriage Database includes Warren County records from 1805 to 2002. Search by name for free. This is the easiest way to find older Warren County marriage license records without going to Warrenton in person.

For newer records, contact the Warren County Recorder. The office keeps all local marriage records on file and issues certified marriage license copies. The Missouri Bureau of Vital Records in Jefferson City also offers certified statements for $15, covering marriages from July 1948 forward. The Missouri Governor's Portal has general info about marriage rules in Missouri.

Under RSMo 193.255, only those with a direct and tangible interest can get certified marriage license copies. Family members and the people named on the Warren County marriage license qualify.

Warren County Marriage License Copies

Need a certified copy of a Warren County marriage license? Visit the Warren County Recorder's office in Warrenton. Provide the names of both spouses and the date of the marriage. Staff will search the files and issue a certified copy while you wait. There is a fee for each copy. Cash and checks are typically accepted.

You can also request copies by mail. Send a letter with all the details and a check or money order to the Warren County Recorder. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return. Most mail requests are done within a couple of weeks. For a quicker option, the state Bureau of Vital Records offers certified statements by phone or through VitalChek online. Those run $15 each and cover marriages from July 1948 forward.

Warren County has been growing fast as the St. Louis metro area pushes west. That means the Warren County Recorder's office processes more marriage license applications each year. Despite the growth, the office runs on the same schedule and follows the same rules as every other county in Missouri. The staff is used to handling a mix of long-time residents and newcomers who are just settling into the area.

Marriage Law in Warren County

Missouri law considers marriage a civil contract. Common law marriages are void in this state. You need a license from the Warren County Recorder of Deeds before you can legally marry. After the wedding, the officiant returns the signed marriage license to the Warren County Recorder. If it is not returned, your marriage may not show up in the official records. Follow up with the officiant to make sure.

Warren County follows the same marriage laws as all other Missouri counties. The three-day marriage license waiting period, 30-day validity, and ID requirements are statewide. The Recorder in Warrenton administers these rules locally. If you are new to the area or not sure which county you live in, call the Warren County Recorder's office and they can confirm whether Warren County is the right place for your marriage license application.

Nearby Counties

These counties border Warren County. Each has its own Recorder handling marriage licenses.