How to Apply for a Tennessee Marriage License:
A Step-by-Step Guide from Your Favorite Officiant

If you’re planning a wedding or elopement here in Tennessee one of the most important things to check off your to-do list is getting your Tennessee marriage license. As a local officiant, I’ve helped hundreds of couples navigate this part of the journey. I promise It's easier than you think! Let’s break it down together.

📝 First Things First: Why You Need a Marriage License

A marriage license is what makes your wedding legal. Without it, your ceremony is just for show. Whether you’re tying the knot in a mountaintop cabin, beside a waterfall, or at one of our gorgeous local venues, you must have a valid Tennessee marriage license to make it official.

👰‍♀️🤵‍♂️ What You’ll Need to Bring

Here’s what you and your fiancé need when you head to the County Clerk’s office:

1. The two of you, in person
2. A government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport)
3. Your Social Security Cards

The license fees vary by county, but average $100, check the county clerk's website for the actual fee and how they accept payment. If you are using a credit card they may charge a processing fee. If you’ve taken a premarital prep course, the fee is discounted by $60 (more on that in a second). No blood tests, no waiting period, no stress. 🙌

📍 Where to Go

You can apply at any County Clerk’s office in Tennessee, no matter where your wedding is taking place. Here in the Smokies, most couples go to:

• Sevier County Clerk (for Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville)
• Blount County Clerk (for Cades Cove, Townsend, and GSMNP weddings)

✨ Pro Tip: Most county offices let you pre-apply online, then finish it in person. That saves time and gets you out of the clerk's office faster!

👉 Start your TN marriage license application online Sevier Blount & here is Knox just for fun.

⏰ When to Apply

Your Tennessee marriage license is good for 30 days, and it's valid the moment you get it, no waiting period. I usually recommend pre-applying online a month prior to your wedding, just in case the office is busy or you run into travel delays. But yes, you can apply and get married the same day if needed!

💰 Want to Save $60? Take a Premarital Course

If you're looking to save a little cash (with the added bonus of strengthening your relationship), Tennessee offers a discounted license fee if you complete a min 4-hour premarital course.

Here’s how it works:

1. Take a qualifying course (online or in person)
2. Get your certificate notarized
3. Bring it with you when you apply
4. Get $60 off the in-state license fee

Need a course recommendation? Check out the online course I offer.

💒 After the Ceremony

Once you’ve said your vows (we laughed, we cried), I’ll take care of filing the paperwork for you. I’ll sign and return your license to the issuing County Clerk’s office, and then you can order certified copies to use for name changes, insurance, and more.

💬 Common Questions I Get from Couples

Do we have to live in Tennessee to get married here?

Nope! Tennessee welcomes couples from all over the country, and the world.

Can we bring a marriage license from our state?

Nope! All states require you to apply for the license in the state where the ceremony is taking place. US marriage licenses are automatically honored in each state.

Can we get the license in one county and marry in another?

Yes! The license is valid in every county in the state.

Can we apply on the weekend?

Most County Clerk offices are open Monday–Friday, but we do have Saturday mornings available in Sevier County. Check the website and always check the hours before you go.

Let’s Make It Official

If you’re planning to elope or get married in the Smoky Mountains, I’d love to be part of your day! Not just as your officiant, but as someone who helps take the stress out of the process. 💛

Got questions? I’m just a text or email away.

📞 865-446-0425 📧 revjilldillner@gmail.com