Mercer County Marriage Records Search

Mercer County serves over 23,000 residents in the heart of the Bluegrass Region. The county seat is Harrodsburg. It is the oldest permanent settlement in Kentucky. The Mercer County Clerk issues marriage licenses and keeps records for all marriages in the county. Chris Horn serves as County Clerk. He is committed to serving the people with care and skill.

Mercer County Clerk Marriage Services

The Mercer County Clerk maintains all marriage records for the county. The office issues licenses to couples who plan to wed. They also file the certificates after the wedding takes place. You can get copies of your marriage record at the clerk's office. The staff works hard to help all who visit.

Chris Horn serves as the Mercer County Clerk. He works to give the best service to all who come to his office. He stays true to his duty to keep public records safe. The clerk's office is a place you can trust. They will treat you with respect and care.

The office is at 207 West Lexington Street in Harrodsburg. The mailing address is PO Box 426. The zip code is 40330. You can call the office at (859) 734-6310. Staff can help you with hours and what to bring.

Visit the Mercer County Clerk website for more facts. The site is at mercercountyclerk.ky.gov. You can find forms and more details online.

How to Apply for a Marriage License

Both parties must come to the clerk's office to apply. This is a state law in Kentucky. You cannot send one person to apply for both. Both must be there in person. No exceptions are made to this rule.

Bring valid photo ID when you come to apply. A driver's license works best. A state ID card or passport also works. The name on your ID must match what you put on the form. Staff will check this when you arrive.

You do not need to live in Mercer County to apply. Kentucky has no rule about where you must live. You can apply in any county in the state. Out of state couples can apply here too. This makes it easy for all to marry in Kentucky.

The license fee must be paid when you apply. Contact the clerk's office to learn what forms of pay they take. Some offices take cash and checks. Others may take cards as well.

Marriage License Terms

Your license will be good for 30 days from the date of issue. The clock starts when the clerk hands you the document. You must have your wedding within this time. After 30 days, the license is no longer good. You would need to apply and pay again.

The license is only valid in the state of Kentucky. You cannot use it in other states. You must marry within the state lines. Many couples pick pretty spots in the Bluegrass for their big day.

There is no waiting period in Kentucky. You can get married right away if you wish. Some couples get the license and marry the same day. This gives you much freedom in your plans.

Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without consent. Those who are 17 may marry with court approval. The court must give written consent first. Ask the clerk about this if it applies to you.

Wedding Ceremony Guidelines

Two witnesses must be at your ceremony. This is required by Kentucky law. They must be over 18 years old. They must watch the full ceremony. Then they must sign the license. The bride and groom cannot be their own witnesses.

Any ordained minister can perform your wedding. Kentucky does not require clergy to register. Judges can also perform ceremonies. You have many choices for who can wed you. Pick someone who fits your faith and style.

After the wedding, the officiant must return the signed license. This must be done within 30 days. The document goes back to the Mercer County Clerk. Once filed, you can get certified copies of your marriage certificate.

Obtaining Marriage Records

The Mercer County Clerk keeps all marriage records on file. You can ask for certified copies at the office. Give the full names of both parties when you ask. Include the date of marriage if you know it.

Certified copies cost a fee for each one. Call the office to learn the current price. Most couples order two or three copies. You will need them for name changes and other tasks.

The Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics also keeps marriage records. They have certificates from 1958 to now. You can order from the state office if you need to. They offer ways to order by mail and online.

Nearby Counties

These Central Kentucky counties are near Mercer County. You may also apply in these locations if you live near the line.