Getting Married in Nevada: A Legal Guide
Nevada offers relatively simple marriage requirements with no waiting period and licenses valid for one year after issuance. Couples must complete an application, provide identification, pay the license fee (typically $60-$77), and can marry immediately after receiving their license.
Nevada is known for its convenient marriage laws, but couples should still ensure they meet all legal requirements before their ceremony. Marriage licenses must be obtained in person at a county clerk's office, and both parties must be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if younger).
Key Considerations
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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 (NRS 122.040)
In Nevada, couples must obtain a marriage license before getting married. Both parties must appear together at a county clerk's office with valid identification. There is no waiting period in Nevada, and licenses are valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Age Requirements (NRS 122.020)
Nevada law requires both parties to be 18 years of age or older to marry without parental consent. Individuals who are 17 may marry with the consent of at least one parent or legal guardian. Under special circumstances, those 16 years old may marry with both parental consent and judicial approval.
Marriage Ceremony Options (NRS 122.062)
Nevada offers various options for marriage ceremonies. Couples can choose between religious ceremonies, civil ceremonies performed by judges or justices of the peace, or ceremonies by commissioners of civil marriages. Las Vegas is famous for its wedding chapels that offer quick ceremonies without appointments.
Community Property Laws (NRS 123.220)
Nevada is a community property state, meaning that most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned by both spouses, regardless of whose name is on the title. Understanding these laws is important for financial planning before marriage.
Prenuptial Agreements (NRS 123A)
Nevada recognizes prenuptial agreements under the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act. These agreements allow couples to determine in advance how their assets will be divided in case of divorce, potentially overriding community property laws. To be valid, these agreements must be in writing and signed by both parties.
Regional Variances
Major Cities in Nevada
Las Vegas is known for its quick and easy marriage process. No waiting period is required, and marriage licenses are issued on the same day at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, which is open 7 days a week, including holidays, from 8am to midnight. The license is valid for one year from the date of issue. Las Vegas also offers numerous wedding chapels and venues that can perform ceremonies 24/7, including drive-through weddings.
Often called the 'Divorce Capital' historically, Reno is also popular for marriages. The Washoe County Marriage License Bureau issues licenses with no waiting period. Reno offers a more subdued alternative to Las Vegas but still provides quick ceremonies. Marriage licenses are valid for one year from issuance date.
As the state capital, Carson City has its own marriage license requirements administered through the Carson City Clerk-Recorder's office. No blood tests or waiting periods are required, and the license is valid for one year. The office has more limited hours than Las Vegas, typically operating during standard business hours on weekdays.
Rural Counties in Nevada
In Elko County, marriage licenses are issued by the County Clerk's office during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. Unlike Las Vegas, services are not available on weekends or holidays, which may require additional planning for couples. The license is still valid for one year with no waiting period.
Humboldt County issues marriage licenses through the County Clerk's office in Winnemucca. Hours are limited to weekday business hours, and it's advisable to call ahead. While Nevada's no-waiting-period policy applies here too, the rural nature of the county means fewer officiants and venue options are available compared to urban areas.
Tribal Jurisdictions
For marriages on Pyramid Lake Paiute tribal lands, couples should be aware that while Nevada state law applies broadly, tribal authorities may have additional requirements or ceremonies for marriages involving tribal members. It's advisable to contact tribal offices directly for specific guidance.
Marriages involving tribal members may incorporate traditional Native American ceremonies alongside legal requirements. While Nevada marriage licenses are still required, couples should consult with tribal authorities regarding any additional permissions or ceremonial aspects if the wedding will take place on tribal lands.
Suggested Compliance Checklist
Apply for a Marriage License
1 days after startingIn Nevada, both parties must appear together at a county clerk's office to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to bring valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.) and pay the license fee (approximately $60-$77 depending on the county). Nevada marriage licenses are valid for one year from the date of issuance. No blood tests or waiting periods are required in Nevada.
Consider a Prenuptial Agreement
30 days after startingWhile optional, a prenuptial agreement can protect both parties' assets and clarify financial responsibilities in case of divorce. In Nevada, prenups must be in writing, signed by both parties, and executed voluntarily with full financial disclosure. Consider consulting with separate attorneys to ensure the agreement is fair and legally enforceable under Nevada law.
Plan Your Wedding Ceremony
60 days after startingNevada allows marriages to be performed by various officials including judges, justices of the peace, ministers, and notary publics who have obtained a Certificate of Permission to Perform Marriages. If using a religious officiant, ensure they are authorized to perform marriages in Nevada. The marriage must be solemnized within one year of obtaining your license.
Apply for Name Change (if applicable)
90 days after startingIf either spouse wishes to change their name after marriage, you'll need to update your Social Security card first, then your driver's license, passport, and other identification documents. Nevada does not require a court petition for a marriage-related name change; your marriage certificate serves as legal proof for the name change process.
Update or Create a Will
120 days after startingMarriage significantly changes your legal status and automatically affects inheritance rights in Nevada. Create or update your will to reflect your new marital status and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. In Nevada, a valid will must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by someone in the testator's presence and at their direction), and witnessed by at least two competent witnesses.
Create Healthcare Power of Attorney
120 days after startingThis document allows your spouse (or another designated person) to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In Nevada, a healthcare power of attorney must be signed, dated, and either notarized or witnessed by two qualified adults. Nevada has specific requirements about who can serve as witnesses, so review the state guidelines carefully.
Establish Durable Power of Attorney
120 days after startingThis document authorizes your spouse (or another designated person) to handle financial and legal matters on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In Nevada, a durable power of attorney must be signed, dated, and notarized to be valid. Consider specifying exactly what powers you're granting and under what circumstances they become effective.
Update Beneficiary Designations
150 days after startingReview and update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and other financial assets. In Nevada, beneficiary designations typically override will provisions, so it's crucial to ensure these forms reflect your current wishes after marriage.
Consider Joint Property Ownership
180 days after startingNevada is a community property state, meaning most assets acquired during marriage are considered jointly owned. Consider how you want to title property, vehicles, and other assets. For real estate, options include joint tenancy with right of survivorship, community property with right of survivorship, or maintaining separate property status.
Establish Joint Financial Accounts (if desired)
180 days after startingDecide whether to maintain separate accounts, create joint accounts, or use a combination approach. Joint accounts in Nevada are typically held as joint tenants with right of survivorship, meaning the surviving spouse automatically inherits the entire account upon the other's death, regardless of will provisions.
Update Health Insurance Coverage
60 days after startingMarriage is a qualifying life event that allows you to add your spouse to your health insurance plan outside of open enrollment periods. In Nevada, you typically have 30-60 days after your marriage to make these changes. Contact your health insurance provider to understand the specific process and documentation required.
Review and Update Tax Filing Status
365 days after startingMarriage affects your tax filing status and potentially your tax liability. Research whether filing jointly or separately is more advantageous for your specific financial situation. If you marry at any point during the tax year, the IRS considers you married for the entire year for filing purposes.
| Task | Description | Document | Days after starting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply for a Marriage License | In Nevada, both parties must appear together at a county clerk's office to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to bring valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.) and pay the license fee (approximately $60-$77 depending on the county). Nevada marriage licenses are valid for one year from the date of issuance. No blood tests or waiting periods are required in Nevada. | - | 1 |
| Consider a Prenuptial Agreement | While optional, a prenuptial agreement can protect both parties' assets and clarify financial responsibilities in case of divorce. In Nevada, prenups must be in writing, signed by both parties, and executed voluntarily with full financial disclosure. Consider consulting with separate attorneys to ensure the agreement is fair and legally enforceable under Nevada law. | Prenuptial Agreement | 30 |
| Plan Your Wedding Ceremony | Nevada allows marriages to be performed by various officials including judges, justices of the peace, ministers, and notary publics who have obtained a Certificate of Permission to Perform Marriages. If using a religious officiant, ensure they are authorized to perform marriages in Nevada. The marriage must be solemnized within one year of obtaining your license. | - | 60 |
| Apply for Name Change (if applicable) | If either spouse wishes to change their name after marriage, you'll need to update your Social Security card first, then your driver's license, passport, and other identification documents. Nevada does not require a court petition for a marriage-related name change; your marriage certificate serves as legal proof for the name change process. | Name Change Application | 90 |
| Update or Create a Will | Marriage significantly changes your legal status and automatically affects inheritance rights in Nevada. Create or update your will to reflect your new marital status and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. In Nevada, a valid will must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by someone in the testator's presence and at their direction), and witnessed by at least two competent witnesses. | Updated Will | 120 |
| Create Healthcare Power of Attorney | This document allows your spouse (or another designated person) to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In Nevada, a healthcare power of attorney must be signed, dated, and either notarized or witnessed by two qualified adults. Nevada has specific requirements about who can serve as witnesses, so review the state guidelines carefully. | Healthcare Power of Attorney | 120 |
| Establish Durable Power of Attorney | This document authorizes your spouse (or another designated person) to handle financial and legal matters on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In Nevada, a durable power of attorney must be signed, dated, and notarized to be valid. Consider specifying exactly what powers you're granting and under what circumstances they become effective. | Durable Power of Attorney | 120 |
| Update Beneficiary Designations | Review and update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and other financial assets. In Nevada, beneficiary designations typically override will provisions, so it's crucial to ensure these forms reflect your current wishes after marriage. | Beneficiary Designation Forms | 150 |
| Consider Joint Property Ownership | Nevada is a community property state, meaning most assets acquired during marriage are considered jointly owned. Consider how you want to title property, vehicles, and other assets. For real estate, options include joint tenancy with right of survivorship, community property with right of survivorship, or maintaining separate property status. | - | 180 |
| Establish Joint Financial Accounts (if desired) | Decide whether to maintain separate accounts, create joint accounts, or use a combination approach. Joint accounts in Nevada are typically held as joint tenants with right of survivorship, meaning the surviving spouse automatically inherits the entire account upon the other's death, regardless of will provisions. | Joint Bank Account Application | 180 |
| Update Health Insurance Coverage | Marriage is a qualifying life event that allows you to add your spouse to your health insurance plan outside of open enrollment periods. In Nevada, you typically have 30-60 days after your marriage to make these changes. Contact your health insurance provider to understand the specific process and documentation required. | Health Insurance Coverage Change Form | 60 |
| Review and Update Tax Filing Status | Marriage affects your tax filing status and potentially your tax liability. Research whether filing jointly or separately is more advantageous for your specific financial situation. If you marry at any point during the tax year, the IRS considers you married for the entire year for filing purposes. | - | 365 |
Frequently Asked Questions
To get married in Nevada, both parties must be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if 16-17), not be closely related, and not currently married to someone else. You'll need to obtain a marriage license from any Nevada county clerk's office by appearing together with valid government-issued photo ID. No blood tests or waiting periods are required, and licenses are valid for one year from issuance. The ceremony must be performed by an authorized person such as a judge, justice of the peace, or religious minister within Nevada.
Nevada is famous for its convenient marriage process. You can get married the same day you apply for your marriage license, as there is no waiting period. Marriage license bureaus in Las Vegas are even open seven days a week, including holidays, with some open until midnight. After obtaining your license, you can immediately proceed to your ceremony, making it possible to complete the entire marriage process in just a few hours.
No, you do not need to be a Nevada resident to get married in the state. Nevada welcomes non-residents to marry there, which is one reason Las Vegas is such a popular wedding destination. Both residents and non-residents follow the same procedures and requirements for obtaining a marriage license.
When applying for a marriage license in Nevada, both parties must bring valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID. If you've been divorced within the last 90 days, you should also bring a certified copy of your divorce decree. Non-U.S. citizens can use their passport as identification. If your ID is not in English, you may need to provide a certified translation.
Marriage license fees vary slightly by county in Nevada, but generally range from $60 to $77. In Clark County (Las Vegas), the fee is $77. These fees must be paid at the time of application and are typically payable by cash, credit card, or money order, depending on the county clerk's office policies. There may be additional fees for certified copies of your marriage certificate, which you'll need for legal name changes and other official purposes.
Yes, same-sex marriage is legal in Nevada. Following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, same-sex marriage is legal throughout the United States. Same-sex couples have the same marriage rights and follow the same procedures as opposite-sex couples when getting married in Nevada.
Nevada law requires at least one witness who is 18 years or older to be present at your wedding ceremony. However, many wedding venues and chapels in Nevada can provide witnesses if needed, so this requirement shouldn't be a concern even if you're eloping or having a private ceremony.
After your ceremony, the officiant must file the marriage certificate with the county recorder's office within 10 days. About 1-2 weeks after your wedding, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county recorder's office where your license was filed. This can typically be done in person, by mail, or online through the county recorder's website. Each certified copy costs approximately $15-20, and you'll need these for official purposes like changing your name or updating legal documents.
Nevada follows standard procedures for name changes after marriage. Your marriage certificate serves as the legal document needed to change your name with the Social Security Administration, DMV, passport office, and other institutions. You're not required to change your name, but if you choose to do so, you should start with updating your Social Security card, followed by your driver's license, and then other documents and accounts. There's no deadline for changing your name after marriage.
Yes, prenuptial agreements are valid and enforceable in Nevada. Nevada follows the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act, which provides guidelines for creating legally binding prenuptial agreements. For a prenup to be valid, it must be in writing, signed by both parties, entered into voluntarily, and include full financial disclosure. It's highly recommended that each party have their own attorney review the agreement before signing. The agreement becomes effective upon marriage and can address property division, spousal support, and other financial matters in case of divorce.