Marriage Records in Perry County

Perry County lies in the rugged mountains of eastern Kentucky. The county seat is Hazard, the heart of the Appalachian region. Perry County is home to over 27,000 residents. The Perry County Clerk issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for all ceremonies performed within the county. Wayne Napier serves as the County Clerk. His office provides full marriage license services to residents and visitors alike.

Perry County Clerk Services

The Perry County Clerk handles all marriage license applications for the county. The office also keeps records of all marriages performed within Perry County boundaries. You can apply for a license during regular business hours. The clerk also provides certified copies of marriage certificates for legal purposes.

The office is on Main Street in downtown Hazard. The address is 481 Main Street, Suite 101. The phone number is (606) 436-4614. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Eastern Time. Staff members can answer questions about license requirements. They can also help you obtain copies of existing marriage records.

You can learn more at the Perry County Clerk website. Visit perry.countyclerk.us for more details. The site has information about all services and requirements.

How to Apply for a Marriage License

Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license. This rule applies to all marriage licenses in Perry County. You cannot send one person alone to apply. Both individuals must bring valid photo ID. A driver's license or state ID card works best.

Both parties must be 18 years old or older. There is no waiting period in Kentucky. You do not need a blood test or physical exam. The license fee is $50 in Perry County. This amount covers both the license and filing fees. Payment is due at the time of application.

The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This includes the day you receive it. You can use it the same day you apply if you wish. Many couples get married right after receiving their license. After 30 days, the license expires and becomes invalid.

You must use the license within Kentucky state boundaries. It is not valid in other states. Choose any location within the Commonwealth for your ceremony. The venue can be a church, courthouse, park, or private home.

Wedding Ceremony Requirements

Kentucky law requires two witnesses at your wedding ceremony. They must be present during the entire service from start to finish. Both witnesses must be over 18 years old. The officiant must also be present throughout the ceremony. After the ceremony is complete, all parties sign the marriage license.

Any ordained minister can officiate your wedding. Kentucky does not license or register clergy members. Judges and justices of the peace may also perform ceremonies. You have flexibility in choosing your wedding officiant.

After your wedding, the officiant returns the signed license. This must occur within 30 days of the ceremony. The document goes to the Perry County Clerk's office. Once recorded, your marriage becomes official. You can then request certified copies of your certificate.

Marriage Records and Certified Copies

The Perry County Clerk maintains all marriage records for the county. You can request certified copies in person at the office. Visit 481 Main Street during regular business hours. Provide the names of both parties and the marriage date. Staff will search their records and prepare your copies.

Certified copies cost a small fee per document. Contact the clerk for current rates. Most couples order several copies at once. You will need them for name changes and other legal purposes. Banks and government offices require certified copies.

The Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics also maintains marriage records. They hold certificates from 1958 to the present. You can order from the state office if Perry County records are unavailable. The state office offers mail and online ordering options.

Nearby Counties

These counties neighbor Perry County in eastern Kentucky. Residents near the county line may also apply in these locations.