Montana Marriage License, Laws and Self-Solemnization
Montana Marriage License, Laws and Self-Solemnization Information
Montana Marriage Laws and Self-Solemnization in Flathead County: What You Need to Know
Updated: Feburary 10th, 2025 | By Aundrea Eaton
Eloping in Montana’s Glacier National Park is an unforgettable experience, offering couples the opportunity to exchange vows amidst some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the United States. Whether you’re planning a private ceremony at sunrise or a sunset vow exchange by a secluded lake, understanding Montana’s marriage laws is key to ensuring your special day goes off without a hitch.
Montana is one of the most flexible states when it comes to marriage laws, particularly for couples seeking a more personal and intimate ceremony. The state allows couples to choose from several options when it comes to officiants, including clergy, judges, and online-ordained ministers. But what truly sets Montana apart is its unique option for self-solemnization, a rare opportunity that allows you and your partner to marry yourselves, without the need for an officiant or witnesses. This means you can plan your elopement your way—whether that’s a quiet moment alone in nature, an adventure hike to a remote location, or a ceremony that involves just the two of you, fully focused on your commitment.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the legal requirements specific to Flathead County, which covers much of the area surrounding Glacier National Park. We’ll cover everything from how to obtain a marriage license, the documentation you’ll need, and the cost involved, to what you can expect when opting for self-solemnization. We’ll also explain how Montana’s laws ensure that your marriage is legally recognized across the United States, no matter which option you choose. With this guide, you’ll have all the information necessary to make your elopement day as seamless and meaningful as possible, giving you the freedom to focus on what really matters: celebrating your love in one of the most breathtaking natural environments on earth.
Montana Marriage License Requirements in Flathead County
To get married in Montana, you’ll need a marriage license from a county office. Here’s what you need to know if you’re obtaining your license in Flathead County.
WHERE TO APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE
You can apply for your marriage license online through the Flathead County Clerk of District Court. This convenient option allows you to start the application process from the comfort of your home.
Visit the official Flathead County marriage license application page here.
You do not need to be a resident of Flathead County or Montana to obtain a marriage license.
While you can complete the application online, both parties must still appear at the Clerk’s office to finalize and receive the license. The courthouse is located at 920 South Main Street, Kalispell, MT 59901
You can contact them at (406) 758-5870 for any questions or to confirm office hours.
What to Bring when picking up your marriage license
When picking up your marriage license after your arrival, you’ll need these documents:
Identification: Both parties must appear in person and present a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, passport).
Birth Certificate or Proof of Age: It’s recommended to bring a birth certificate or another form of identification that verifies your age.
Social Security Number: You’ll need to provide your social security number, though the physical card is not required.
Previous Marriages: If either party was previously married, you’ll need the date the marriage ended. For divorces, bring a certified copy of the divorce decree. If the previous spouse is deceased, bring a copy of the death certificate.
License Fee: The fee for a marriage license in Flathead County is $53. This fee is payable when you apply and is non-refundable.
No Waiting Period: Once you obtain your marriage license, there is no waiting period, meaning you can use it immediately. The license is valid for 180 days, giving you plenty of time to schedule your elopement.
Officiant and Witness Requirements in Flathead County
Montana is quite flexible when it comes to officiants and witnesses, making it an ideal location for personalized elopements:
Authorized Officiants:
Clergy members, judges, justices of the peace, tribal judges, and ordained ministers (including those ordained online) are all authorized to officiate weddings in Montana.
Out-of-state officiants are welcome and do not need to register with the state to perform ceremonies in Montana.
Witness Requirements:
No witnesses are required to legally validate a marriage in Montana, including in Flathead County. This is ideal for couples looking to elope privately or in a remote location. If you prefer to have witnesses as part of your ceremony for symbolic or personal reasons, you are welcome to include them, but they are not legally necessary for documentation.
Self-Solemnization in Flathead County
One of the most unique aspects of Montana’s marriage law is the option for self-solemnization, allowing couples to legally marry themselves without an officiant or witnesses. Here’s how it works specifically in Flathead County:
What Is Self-Solemnization?
Self-solemnization means that you and your partner can perform your own marriage ceremony, signing the license yourselves without needing an officiant. This is perfect for couples who want an intimate, private ceremony in a location like Glacier National Park.
How to Self-Solemnize
When applying for your marriage license at the Flathead County Clerk’s office, indicate that you will be self-solemnizing. The process remains the same as any other marriage license application—no additional forms or permissions are needed.
On the day of your ceremony, both partners sign the marriage license, confirming your marriage. No officiant or witness signatures are necessary.
Advantages of Self-Solemnization
Ultimate Flexibility: Marry anywhere in Glacier National Park without needing to coordinate schedules with an officiant.
Private and Intimate: Self-solemnization allows for a completely personal ceremony, whether it’s just the two of you or with a small gathering of loved ones.
FREQUENT QUSTIONS ABOUT SELF-SOLEMNIZATION
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Yes, a self-solemnized marriage performed in Montana is legally recognized in all other states. The Montana marriage license is valid nationwide, so even if you choose to self-solemnize, your marriage will be recognized everywhere in the United States.
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Since there is no officiant, you have complete freedom in crafting your vows and ceremony. You can say traditional vows, create personalized ones, or simply state your intent to marry. There is no specific script required, so it’s up to the couple to decide what feels meaningful for them.
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The only document you need to sign is the marriage license. You and your partner will sign it in the designated areas. There’s no need for additional signatures or documents unless witnesses are involved for symbolic reasons (though they aren’t legally required in Montana).
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Absolutely! While Montana does not require witnesses, you can include friends or family members as witnesses for symbolic purposes. Some couples choose to have loved ones sign their marriage license as a keepsake, even though it is not legally necessary.
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No, you have the freedom to self-solemnize anywhere in Montana, including public lands like Glacier National Park, provided you have the appropriate permits if required. Just make sure the location complies with local regulations and park rules if you choose a public or protected area.
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Flathead County Clerk of District Court
The county’s official website provides accurate and up-to-date information about marriage licenses, fees, requirements, and the process for applying, including self-solemnization and waiver forms.Flathead County Clerk of District Court - Marriage License
Montana Judicial Branch
This state website offers legal guidance, forms, and FAQs related to marriage licenses and requirements throughout Montana.Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS)
This department provides information on the state's premarital requirements, including blood test waivers and other health-related legal aspects of marriage.
Legal Resources
Montana Code Annotated
This is the official repository for Montana’s laws. You can access detailed legal language regarding marriage laws, requirements for officiants, and self-solemnization regulations directly from the state's legal code.Montana Code Annotated (search for Title 40, Chapter 1 regarding marriage laws)
U.S. Marriage Laws
This website offers state-by-state breakdowns of marriage laws, including Montana’s specific regulations about self-solemnization and other requirements.
National and Local Wedding Resources
The Knot
The Knot provides practical wedding advice and state-specific legal information about marriage licenses, including Montana’s marriage laws and self-solemnization.Brides.com
Brides.com offers guides and FAQs for eloping in Montana, including information on legal requirements and options like self-solemnization, in an easy-to-understand format.
Other Resources
Universal Life Church
The Universal Life Church, which provides online ordinations, also has information on officiating weddings in Montana, including the legal requirements for those choosing to self-solemnize.Universal Life Church - Montana Marriage Laws
Montana Bar Association
For a more in-depth legal perspective, the Montana Bar Association offers resources and contact information for legal professionals who specialize in family and marriage law.
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Both partners will sign the marriage license in the space designated for the officiant and the couple. Be sure to check with the county clerk when you pick up your license for any specific instructions on how to complete it during a self-solemnization ceremony.
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Yes, Montana recognizes same-sex marriages, and self-solemnization is available to all couples, regardless of gender. The process and legal requirements are the same for everyone.
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Yes, you can change your mind at any time before the ceremony. As long as you have a valid Montana marriage license, you can choose to have an officiant perform the ceremony if you prefer, without needing to update the license.
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Self-solemnization is only required for legally binding marriages. However, you can absolutely use the concept for vow renewals or symbolic ceremonies if it’s meaningful to you, though this won’t have any legal effect.
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Yes, some couples choose to have a friend or family member “officiate” for a more structured feel, even though their signature is not needed for the marriage to be legal. This person can guide the ceremony, make it more formal, or simply be a part of the moment for sentimental reasons.
Filing the Marriage License
After your ceremony, follow these steps to make your marriage official:
Return the License
Return the signed marriage license to the Flathead County Clerk of District Court office. You can either drop it off in person or mail it back. Ensure this is done within 30 days of your ceremony.
Receive Your Marriage Certificate
The Clerk’s office will process your license and send you an official marriage certificate. This document serves as your legal proof of marriage.
Important Considerations for Glacier National Park Elopements
While Montana’s laws are flexible, Glacier National Park requires a permit for wedding ceremonies. Ensure you apply for and secure your permit well in advance and confirm that your chosen location is allowed for elopements.
WHAT ABOUT THE BLOOD TEST?
In Montana, neither partner is required to undergo a blood test to obtain a marriage license, as the state abolished the premarital blood test requirement in 2007.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
No Blood Test Required:
Montana law no longer mandates blood tests for marriage licenses, a practice that was common in the past.
Legislative Change:
The Montana legislature modified the law in 2007 to eliminate the requirement for women to get a rubella blood test before obtaining a marriage license.
No Need for Waivers:
Since the test is no longer required, there is no longer a need for couples to sign waivers in place of the blood test.
Montana’s flexible marriage laws, combined with the option for self-solemnization and no witness requirement, make it an ideal location for intimate elopements. By following these guidelines and preparing in advance, you can ensure that your ceremony in Glacier National Park is legally binding and uniquely yours. Whether you choose to self-solemnize or work with an officiant, I’m here to support you every step of the way. If you need further assistance or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out!