Hardin County Marriage Records Search

Hardin County is home to over 111,000 residents and includes the city of Elizabethtown. The Hardin County Clerk maintains marriage records for ceremonies performed within the county. Couples can apply for marriage licenses in person at the clerk's office. Marriage records are public documents available through official channels.

Hardin County Clerk Marriage Records

The Hardin County Clerk maintains all marriage records for ceremonies performed in Hardin County. Brian D. Smith serves as the County Clerk. His office issues marriage licenses and keeps copies of marriage certificates on file. You can visit the office in Elizabethtown to apply for a license. The clerk also provides certified copies of marriage records for legal purposes.

The office is located at 150 North Provident Way, Suite 103, in Elizabethtown. You can reach the office by phone at (270) 765-2171. Staff members can answer questions about license requirements. They can also help you obtain copies of existing marriage records.

The Hardin County Clerk website provides additional information about marriage license applications. Visit hardincountyky.gov to learn more about hours, locations, and requirements.

How to Apply for a Marriage License

Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license in Hardin County. You cannot apply by mail or online. The application process requires both individuals to visit the clerk office together. Bring valid identification for each person. Accepted forms include a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID.

Kentucky does not have a residency requirement. You can apply in any county regardless of where you live. The license will be valid throughout the state. This rule makes it easy for out-of-state couples to marry here.

You do not need to bring your birth certificate unless you are under 18 years of age. You also do not need to bring a divorce decree if you were previously married. The clerk does not require proof of divorce to issue a new license. However, you must truthfully state your marital status on the application.

The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This includes the day the clerk gives you the license. You must have your ceremony within this period. After 30 days, the license expires and you must apply again.

Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. Those aged 17 may marry with a court order. The age requirement is set in state law. No waiting period applies in Kentucky. You can get married the same day you receive the license. Blood tests are not required. This requirement was repealed in 1982.

Obtaining Hardin County Marriage Records

Marriage records in Hardin County are public documents. You can request copies from the County Clerk's office. Certified copies are necessary for legal purposes such as changing your name or updating insurance records.

To request a copy, contact the Hardin County Clerk. Provide the full names of both parties and the approximate date of marriage. Staff can search their records and provide certified copies. You can visit in person or call for information about mail requests.

The Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics also maintains marriage records. They hold certificates for marriages recorded since June 1958. You can order copies through their office for $6 each. Visit their website or call for more information about state-level records.

Wedding Ceremonies in Hardin County

After you obtain your license, you can have your ceremony anywhere in Kentucky. The license is only valid within the state. Any ordained minister or authorized officiant can perform your wedding. There are no licensing requirements for ministers who wish to perform marriages in Kentucky.

Two witnesses must be present at the ceremony. Both witnesses must be over 18 years of age. The officiant and both witnesses sign the license after the wedding. The signed document must be returned to the county clerk for recording.

After the ceremony, your officiant must return the signed license to the County Clerk. This must happen within 30 days of the ceremony. Once recorded, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate.

Nearby Counties

These counties neighbor Hardin County. If you live in one of these areas, you may also apply for a marriage license there.