Shelby County Marriage Records Search

Shelby County serves more than 49,000 residents in the heart of Kentucky. The county seat is Shelbyville, known for its historic downtown and equestrian heritage. The Shelby County Clerk issues marriage licenses and maintains records for all ceremonies performed in the county. The office is in the county courthouse on Washington Street. Staff members help with applications and provide certified copies of marriage records. The area is famous for its horse farms and rolling bluegrass landscapes. Couples find beauty and history throughout the county.

Shelby County Clerk Marriage Services

The Shelby County Clerk handles all marriage license applications for couples in the county. Tony Harover serves as the County Clerk. His office issues licenses and keeps copies of marriage certificates on file. You can visit the office to apply for a license. The clerk also provides certified copies for legal purposes.

The main office is located at 501 Washington Street in Shelbyville. The phone number is (502) 633-4410. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays. The courthouse location is in the center of downtown.

Visit the Shelby County Clerk website for more details. The address is shelbycountyclerk.ky.gov. You can find hours, directions, and service information online.

How to Apply for a Marriage License

Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license in Shelby County. You cannot apply by mail or online. The application process requires both individuals to visit together. This is a Kentucky state law. Both parties must be present at the same time.

Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is 17, a court order is required. The court process adds extra steps. Plan ahead if this applies to your situation. Call the clerk for guidance on special cases.

Bring valid photo identification for each person. A driver's license or state ID card works well. Passports and military IDs are also accepted. The names on your ID must match your application. You should also know your social security number.

The license fee is $60. This fee took effect on June 27, 2025. You must pay at the time of application. The clerk accepts various payment methods. Contact the office to confirm current payment options.

Marriage License Terms in Shelby County

Your marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. The countdown starts on the issue date. You must have your ceremony within this period. After 30 days, the license expires. You would need to reapply if this happens.

The license is valid anywhere in Kentucky. You can marry in any county within the state. Many couples choose to wed in Shelby County. The area offers horse farms and historic sites. Others take their license to a different county.

There is no waiting period in Kentucky. You can marry the same day you receive your license. Some couples apply and marry within hours. This offers flexibility for your wedding plans. You do not need to wait after getting the license.

Kentucky has no residency requirement for marriage licenses. You do not need to live in Shelby County to apply. Out-of-state couples can obtain licenses here. This makes Shelby County a good choice for visitors. The scenic countryside draws couples from nearby areas.

Wedding Ceremony Guidelines

Two witnesses must attend your ceremony. Kentucky law requires this for all marriages. The witnesses must be present during the vows. They watch the ceremony and sign the license. The officiant also signs after the wedding.

Any ordained minister can perform your wedding. Kentucky does not license or register clergy. Judges and justices may also officiate. County judges and executives have this authority. Retired judges may perform weddings too.

After the wedding, your officiant files the signed license. This must happen within the required time. The document returns to the Shelby County Clerk's office. Once filed, you can request certified copies. These copies prove your marriage took place.

Obtaining Shelby County Marriage Records

The Shelby County Clerk maintains all marriage records for the county. You can request certified copies at the office in Shelbyville. Provide the names of both parties when making your request. Include the date of marriage if you know it. This helps staff find the record faster.

Certified copies cost a fee per document. Call ahead for current pricing. Order multiple copies at once if you need them. You will need certified copies for name changes and other legal matters. Government offices require official copies.

The Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics also keeps marriage records. They have certificates from 1958 forward. You can order from the state office. They offer online and mail ordering options. Visit their website for details about state records.

Nearby Counties

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