Find Marriage Records in Jefferson County
Jefferson County is home to over 783,000 residents and includes the city of Louisville. The Jefferson County Clerk issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for ceremonies performed within the county. You can apply for a license in person at the main office or any of seven branch locations throughout Louisville. Marriage records are public documents available through the County Clerk's office.
Jefferson County Marriage License Facts
Jefferson County Clerk Marriage Records
The Jefferson County Clerk maintains all marriage records for ceremonies performed in Jefferson County. David Yates serves as the County Clerk. His office issues marriage licenses and keeps copies of marriage certificates on file. You can visit the main office in downtown Louisville or any branch location to apply for a license. The clerk also provides certified copies of marriage records for legal purposes.
The main office is located at 527 West Jefferson Street, Room 100A, in Louisville. You can reach the office by phone at (502) 574-5884. Staff members can answer questions about license requirements. They can also help you obtain copies of existing marriage records.
The Jefferson County Clerk website provides additional information about marriage license applications. Visit jeffersoncountyclerk.org to learn more about hours, locations, and requirements.
| Office | Jefferson County Clerk |
|---|---|
| County Clerk | David Yates |
| Address |
527 W. Jefferson St., Room 100A Louisville, KY 40202 |
| Phone | (502) 574-5884 |
| Website | jeffersoncountyclerk.org |
How to Apply for a Marriage License
Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license in Jefferson County. You cannot apply by mail or online. The application process requires both individuals to visit a clerk office together. Bring valid identification for each person. Accepted forms include a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID.
The fee for a marriage license in Jefferson County is $50. This fee applies to all couples regardless of residency. Starting June 27, 2025, the fee will increase to $60. The clerk accepts cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Personal checks must include your address and phone number.
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.
Jefferson County Branch Locations
Jefferson County offers seven branch locations for marriage license applications. You can visit any location that works best for you. Each branch has extended evening hours on select weekdays. This makes it easier for working couples to apply without taking time off.
The Dixie Branch is at 4919-F Dixie Highway. It has extended hours on Monday until 6:30 PM. The East Branch is at 12312-A Shelbyville Road in Middletown. It also stays open until 6:30 PM on Mondays. The Fairdale Branch at 10616 Manslick Road offers extended hours on Tuesday until 6:30 PM.
The Highview Branch is at 7813 Beulah Church Road. It is open late on Mondays until 6:30 PM. The Jeffersontown Branch at 10420 Watterson Trail stays open until 6:30 PM on Thursdays. The West Branch at 228 Amy Avenue has extended hours on Tuesdays until 6:30 PM. The Westport Plaza Branch at 9455 Westport Road offers evening hours on Wednesdays until 6:30 PM.
Wedding Ceremonies in Jefferson 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.
Jefferson District Court offers wedding ceremonies at the Hall of Justice. The location is Room 3192 at 600 West Jefferson Street in Louisville. The fee is $40 and must be paid in cash only. Ceremonies take place Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Afternoon ceremonies occur Monday through Thursday from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. No ceremonies are held on Friday afternoons.
You must bring two witnesses to the ceremony. Both witnesses must be over 18 years of age. The court does not provide witnesses. You should bring your own friends or family members to fulfill this requirement.
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.
Obtaining Marriage Records in Jefferson County
Marriage records in Jefferson County are public documents. You can request copies from the County Clerk's office. Certified copies cost $5 each. These copies are necessary for legal purposes such as changing your name or updating insurance records.
To request a copy, contact the Jefferson 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.
Nearby Counties
These counties neighbor Jefferson County. If you live in one of these areas, you may also apply for a marriage license there.