Getting Married in Kentucky: Legal Requirements and Process
Getting married in Kentucky requires obtaining a marriage license from a county clerk's office, which is valid for 30 days after issuance. Both parties must appear in person with valid identification, and there is no waiting period after receiving the license before the ceremony can take place.
Kentucky law does not require blood tests or residency requirements, but does require both parties to be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if 17). Same-sex marriage is legal in Kentucky following the 2015 Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges.
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Relevant Documents
Beneficiary Designation Forms
Documents that specify who receives assets from retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other financial accounts upon your death.
Durable Power of Attorney
Authorizes someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated, ensuring your affairs can be managed without court intervention.
Healthcare Power of Attorney
Designates someone to make medical decisions for you if you're unable to do so, ensuring your healthcare preferences are respected.
Prenuptial Agreement
A contract entered into before marriage that establishes rights to property and financial support in case of divorce or death. This document can protect pre-marital assets and outline financial responsibilities during marriage.
Updated Will
A legal document that specifies how your assets should be distributed after death. Marriage typically invalidates previous wills in many jurisdictions, making it important to create a new one that includes your spouse.
Relevant Laws
Marriage License Requirements (KRS 402.080)
In Kentucky, couples must obtain a marriage license from the county clerk's office before getting married. Both parties must appear in person, present valid identification, and pay the required fee. The license is valid for 30 days after issuance.
Marriage Age Requirements (KRS 402.020)
Kentucky law requires both parties to be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Individuals who are 17 may marry with parental/guardian consent. Kentucky prohibits marriage for anyone under 17 years of age (following 2018 reforms that eliminated exceptions for minors under 17).
Waiting Period (KRS 402.080)
Kentucky does not have a mandatory waiting period between obtaining a marriage license and the ceremony. The marriage can take place immediately after receiving the license, as long as it occurs within the 30-day validity period.
Solemnization Requirements (KRS 402.050)
Kentucky marriages must be solemnized by an authorized person, including ordained ministers, priests, judges, justices, county judge/executives, retired justices or judges, or other officials authorized by religious societies. The state also recognizes marriages solemnized according to the customs of religious societies.
Marriage Certificate Filing (KRS 402.220)
After the ceremony, the person who solemnized the marriage must complete the marriage certificate and return it to the county clerk within one month. This official filing is necessary to create a legal record of the marriage.
Prohibited Marriages (KRS 402.010)
Kentucky prohibits marriages between close relatives, including marriages between siblings, parent and child, grandparent and grandchild, aunt/uncle and niece/nephew. The state also does not recognize marriages where either party has another spouse (bigamy).
Regional Variances
County-Specific Marriage License Requirements in Kentucky
Jefferson County requires both parties to appear in person at the County Clerk's office. The marriage license fee is $50, and licenses are valid for 30 days after issuance. The County Clerk's office offers extended hours on certain days to accommodate couples.
Fayette County requires appointments for marriage license applications, which can be scheduled online. The standard fee is $50, and couples must bring valid photo ID. Fayette County also offers a certified copy of the marriage license for an additional fee at the time of application.
Warren County requires both applicants to appear in person with valid ID and social security numbers. The fee is $50, and the County Clerk's office is closed on weekends, so plan accordingly for weekend weddings.
Boone County requires proof of age and residency. If either party has been divorced within the last 30 days, they must provide a certified copy of the divorce decree. The county also has specific requirements for minors seeking to marry with parental consent.
Waiting Period and Blood Test Variations
Kentucky has no mandatory waiting period between obtaining a license and performing the ceremony, unlike some neighboring states. Additionally, Kentucky no longer requires blood tests for marriage licenses, though this requirement still exists in some other states.
Officiants and Ceremony Requirements
In larger urban counties, there are more options for officiants, including judges who can perform ceremonies at the courthouse with minimal notice. These counties typically have more flexible scheduling for courthouse weddings.
In rural Kentucky counties, there may be fewer options for officiants, and courthouse weddings might only be available on specific days of the week. It's advisable to arrange for an officiant well in advance in these areas.
Suggested Compliance Checklist
Apply for a Marriage License
30 days before wedding days after startingIn Kentucky, both parties must appear in person at the county clerk's office to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to bring valid identification (driver's license, passport, or birth certificate), and pay the license fee (approximately $35-50, varies by county). Kentucky has no waiting period, and the license is valid for 30 days after issuance. If either party has been divorced within the past 30 days, you must present a certified copy of the divorce decree.
Consider a Prenuptial Agreement
60 days before wedding days after startingWhile optional, a prenuptial agreement can protect pre-marital assets and establish financial expectations. In Kentucky, prenuptial agreements must be in writing, signed by both parties, and executed before the marriage. For the agreement to be enforceable, both parties should have independent legal counsel, full financial disclosure, and adequate time to review the document before signing (ideally at least 30 days before the wedding).
Update or Create a Will
30 days after wedding days after startingMarriage automatically changes certain inheritance rights in Kentucky. After marriage, your spouse will have legal rights to a portion of your estate regardless of what your will states. Update your will to reflect your new marital status and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. In Kentucky, a valid will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by at least two people who also sign the document.
Create a Durable Power of Attorney
45 days after wedding days after startingA Durable Power of Attorney designates someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In Kentucky, this document must be signed, dated, and either notarized or witnessed by two disinterested adults. Consider naming your spouse as your agent, but also name an alternate agent in case your spouse is unable to serve.
Create a Healthcare Power of Attorney
45 days after wedding days after startingThis document appoints someone to make medical decisions for you if you're unable to do so. In Kentucky, a Healthcare Power of Attorney must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two adults or notarized. Your spouse is a common choice for this role, but you should also name an alternate agent.
Update Beneficiary Designation Forms
60 days after wedding days after startingReview and update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, etc.), and other financial accounts. In Kentucky, these designations typically override will provisions, so it's crucial they reflect your current wishes. Request the appropriate forms from each financial institution or employer.
Apply for Name Change (if applicable)
90 days after wedding days after startingIf either spouse is changing their name, you'll need to update various documents. In Kentucky, your marriage license serves as proof for name changes. First, update your Social Security card (Form SS-5), then your driver's license at the local Kentucky Transportation Cabinet office, followed by your passport and other identification documents. Notify employers, financial institutions, and update voter registration.
Establish Joint Bank Accounts (if desired)
60 days after wedding days after startingIf you plan to combine finances, visit your bank to establish joint accounts. In Kentucky, joint accounts with rights of survivorship allow both spouses access to funds and automatic transfer to the surviving spouse upon death. Both parties will need to be present with identification to open joint accounts.
Update Health Insurance Coverage
30 days after wedding days after startingMarriage is a qualifying life event that allows you to add your spouse to your health insurance outside of open enrollment periods. In Kentucky, you typically have 30-60 days after marriage to make these changes. Contact your employer's HR department or your insurance provider directly to obtain and submit the necessary forms.
Research Tax Filing Options
90 days after wedding days after startingMarriage affects your tax filing status. In Kentucky, married couples can file jointly or separately for both federal and state taxes. For most couples, filing jointly results in tax advantages, but this depends on your specific financial situation. Consult with a tax professional to determine the best approach for your circumstances.
Update Vehicle Titles and Registration
120 days after wedding days after startingIf you plan to co-own vehicles, you'll need to update titles and registration. Visit your local Kentucky County Clerk's office with your marriage certificate, current title, and identification. There's typically a fee for title transfers. You'll also need to decide whether to title vehicles jointly or keep them separate.
Review and Update Property Deeds
180 days after wedding days after startingIf either spouse owns real estate, consider whether you want to add your spouse to the deed. In Kentucky, this requires filing a new deed with the county clerk's office where the property is located. This decision has significant legal and tax implications, so consult with an attorney before making changes to property ownership.
| Task | Description | Document | Days after starting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply for a Marriage License | In Kentucky, both parties must appear in person at the county clerk's office to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to bring valid identification (driver's license, passport, or birth certificate), and pay the license fee (approximately $35-50, varies by county). Kentucky has no waiting period, and the license is valid for 30 days after issuance. If either party has been divorced within the past 30 days, you must present a certified copy of the divorce decree. | - | 30 days before wedding |
| Consider a Prenuptial Agreement | While optional, a prenuptial agreement can protect pre-marital assets and establish financial expectations. In Kentucky, prenuptial agreements must be in writing, signed by both parties, and executed before the marriage. For the agreement to be enforceable, both parties should have independent legal counsel, full financial disclosure, and adequate time to review the document before signing (ideally at least 30 days before the wedding). | Prenuptial Agreement | 60 days before wedding |
| Update or Create a Will | Marriage automatically changes certain inheritance rights in Kentucky. After marriage, your spouse will have legal rights to a portion of your estate regardless of what your will states. Update your will to reflect your new marital status and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. In Kentucky, a valid will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by at least two people who also sign the document. | Updated Will | 30 days after wedding |
| Create a Durable Power of Attorney | A Durable Power of Attorney designates someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In Kentucky, this document must be signed, dated, and either notarized or witnessed by two disinterested adults. Consider naming your spouse as your agent, but also name an alternate agent in case your spouse is unable to serve. | Durable Power of Attorney | 45 days after wedding |
| Create a Healthcare Power of Attorney | This document appoints someone to make medical decisions for you if you're unable to do so. In Kentucky, a Healthcare Power of Attorney must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two adults or notarized. Your spouse is a common choice for this role, but you should also name an alternate agent. | Healthcare Power of Attorney | 45 days after wedding |
| Update Beneficiary Designation Forms | Review and update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, etc.), and other financial accounts. In Kentucky, these designations typically override will provisions, so it's crucial they reflect your current wishes. Request the appropriate forms from each financial institution or employer. | Beneficiary Designation Forms | 60 days after wedding |
| Apply for Name Change (if applicable) | If either spouse is changing their name, you'll need to update various documents. In Kentucky, your marriage license serves as proof for name changes. First, update your Social Security card (Form SS-5), then your driver's license at the local Kentucky Transportation Cabinet office, followed by your passport and other identification documents. Notify employers, financial institutions, and update voter registration. | Name Change Application | 90 days after wedding |
| Establish Joint Bank Accounts (if desired) | If you plan to combine finances, visit your bank to establish joint accounts. In Kentucky, joint accounts with rights of survivorship allow both spouses access to funds and automatic transfer to the surviving spouse upon death. Both parties will need to be present with identification to open joint accounts. | Joint Bank Account Application | 60 days after wedding |
| Update Health Insurance Coverage | Marriage is a qualifying life event that allows you to add your spouse to your health insurance outside of open enrollment periods. In Kentucky, you typically have 30-60 days after marriage to make these changes. Contact your employer's HR department or your insurance provider directly to obtain and submit the necessary forms. | Health Insurance Coverage Change Form | 30 days after wedding |
| Research Tax Filing Options | Marriage affects your tax filing status. In Kentucky, married couples can file jointly or separately for both federal and state taxes. For most couples, filing jointly results in tax advantages, but this depends on your specific financial situation. Consult with a tax professional to determine the best approach for your circumstances. | - | 90 days after wedding |
| Update Vehicle Titles and Registration | If you plan to co-own vehicles, you'll need to update titles and registration. Visit your local Kentucky County Clerk's office with your marriage certificate, current title, and identification. There's typically a fee for title transfers. You'll also need to decide whether to title vehicles jointly or keep them separate. | - | 120 days after wedding |
| Review and Update Property Deeds | If either spouse owns real estate, consider whether you want to add your spouse to the deed. In Kentucky, this requires filing a new deed with the county clerk's office where the property is located. This decision has significant legal and tax implications, so consult with an attorney before making changes to property ownership. | - | 180 days after wedding |
Frequently Asked Questions
In Kentucky, you must be at least 18 years old to get married without parental consent. Both parties must appear in person at the county clerk's office to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to bring valid identification (driver's license, birth certificate, or passport) and pay a fee (typically $35-50, varying by county). There is no waiting period in Kentucky, so you can get married the same day you receive your license. The license is valid for 30 days after issuance.
Kentucky law changed in 2018 to protect minors. Currently, 17-year-olds can marry with parental/guardian consent AND judicial approval. The judge must determine the minor is not being coerced and that the marriage is in their best interest. No one under 17 can legally marry in Kentucky under any circumstances.
No, Kentucky no longer requires blood tests for marriage licenses. This requirement was eliminated years ago, so you won't need to undergo any medical testing to get married in the state.
In Kentucky, marriages can be solemnized by ordained ministers, priests, or clergy of any religious society, judges (current or retired), county judge/executives, justices of the peace, and fiscal court commissioners. Kentucky also allows for one-day solemnization permits for individuals to perform a specific ceremony. The officiant must complete and sign the marriage certificate and return it to the county clerk within one month of the ceremony.
No, Kentucky does not recognize self-uniting marriages or self-solemnization. Your marriage must be performed by an authorized officiant as defined by Kentucky law, such as a minister, judge, or other authorized person.
Kentucky is not a community property state; it follows equitable distribution laws. Property acquired during marriage is generally considered marital property subject to equitable division in case of divorce. Property owned before marriage typically remains separate property. However, commingling assets or using separate property for marital purposes can convert it to marital property. Consider a prenuptial agreement if you want to clearly define property rights.
Name changes after marriage are optional in Kentucky, not mandatory. If you choose to change your name, your marriage certificate serves as the legal document needed to update your name with the Social Security Administration, DMV, and other institutions. You'll need to update your Social Security card first, then your driver's license, followed by other documents and accounts.
Yes, prenuptial agreements are legally binding in Kentucky if properly executed. For validity, the agreement must be in writing, signed by both parties, entered into voluntarily, include full financial disclosure, and not be unconscionable. It's strongly recommended that each party have independent legal counsel review the agreement before signing. Kentucky courts generally uphold prenuptial agreements unless there's evidence of fraud, coercion, or unfairness.
You can obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county clerk's office where your license was issued or from the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics. For the latter, you can apply in person, by mail, or online through the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services website. You'll need to provide identifying information and pay a fee (typically $6 for the first copy and $6 for each additional copy).
If you get married in Kentucky but live in another state, your marriage will be recognized in your home state under the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution. However, specific marital rights regarding property, taxes, and other legal matters will generally be governed by the laws of the state where you reside. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with the marriage laws in your state of residence.