If you’re planning an elopement in Utah, one of the first questions that usually comes up is how to actually make it legal. The good news is that Utah is one of the easiest states in the country to get married in, especially for couples traveling in from out of state.
Whether you’re dreaming of a Moab elopement under red rock arches, a quiet ceremony in the mountains, or a desert adventure followed by sunset vows, this guide walks you through exactly how to legally get married in Utah. No guesswork. No confusing steps. Just the information you actually need.
As a Utah elopement photographer who helps couples plan their days from start to finish, I’ve walked many couples through this process. Here’s everything you need to know.
Can You Legally Get Married in Utah if You’re From Out of State?
Yes. You do not need to be a Utah resident to get married in Utah.
Utah marriage licenses are valid statewide, and couples from any state or country can legally marry here. There is also no waiting period, which makes Utah especially popular for elopements and destination weddings.
You can apply for your marriage license and get married the same day.
Where to Get a Marriage License in Utah
Marriage licenses are issued by county clerk offices. You can apply at any county clerk office in Utah, and the license will be valid anywhere in the state.
If you’re planning a Moab elopement, most couples apply through:
If you’re eloping elsewhere in Utah, you can apply through the county closest to your ceremony location.
Many Utah counties allow you to start the application online, which can save time, but you will still need to appear in person to receive the license.
What You Need to Bring to Get Your Utah Marriage License
When you go to the county clerk’s office, you’ll need:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
Driver’s license or passport both work - Your partner present with you
- Payment for the license fee
The marriage license fee in Utah is typically around $50, though it can vary slightly by county. Most offices accept credit cards, but it’s always smart to double-check ahead of time.
You do not need:
- A blood test
- A residency requirement
- A waiting period
How Long Is a Utah Marriage License Valid?
Once issued, a Utah marriage license is valid for 32 days.
This means you must have your ceremony and sign the license within that window. For elopements, most couples apply one or two days before their ceremony just to keep things simple.
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Utah?
Utah has flexible officiant rules, which is another reason it’s so popular for elopements.
Your ceremony can be officiated by:
- A religious officiant
- A judge or magistrate
- A county clerk
- A temporary officiant
Temporary Officiants in Utah
Utah allows someone to become a temporary officiant for a specific wedding. This means a friend or family member can legally marry you if they apply and are approved ahead of time.
Each county handles temporary officiant approval slightly differently, so if this is important to you, check with the county clerk where you’re applying for your license.
Do You Need Witnesses to Get Married in Utah?
Yes. Utah requires two witnesses to sign your marriage license.
Your witnesses must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be present at the ceremony
If you’re eloping just the two of you, this is something to plan for. Many couples ask their photographer, officiant, or friendly strangers on the trail to sign as witnesses. It’s more common than you think.
Can You Self-Solemnize in Utah?
No. Utah does not allow self-solemnization.
This means you need an officiant and two witnesses present for the marriage to be legally recognized.
If self-solemnization is important to you, Pennsylvania is one of the few states that allows it. But for Utah, an officiant is required.
How the Marriage License Gets Filed
After your ceremony, the officiant is responsible for returning the signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office.
Once the clerk processes it, your marriage becomes officially recorded. You can then request certified copies of your marriage certificate, which you may need for name changes or legal records.
Some counties allow you to request copies online, while others require mail-in requests.
Getting Married in Moab: What’s Different?
Legally speaking, getting married in Moab follows the exact same rules as anywhere else in Utah.
The main differences are logistical, not legal.
Moab is a popular destination, especially in spring and fall, so:
- County clerk offices can get busy
- Officiants may book up quickly
- Popular locations may require permits
If you’re planning a Moab elopement, I recommend:
- Applying for your marriage license early in the day
- Confirming office hours in advance
- Building buffer time into your timeline
Permits vs Marriage Licenses in Utah
This is an important distinction.
A marriage license makes your wedding legal.
A permit allows you to hold a ceremony in certain locations.
Many outdoor locations in Utah, including national parks and state parks, require a separate special use permit for wedding ceremonies. This is completely separate from your marriage license and is handled by the park or land management agency.
For example:
- Arches National Park requires a special use permit
- Canyonlands National Park requires a permit
- Dead Horse Point State Park requires a permit
The marriage license alone does not grant permission to get married in these locations.
Common Questions About Getting Married in Utah
Can we get married the same day we apply?
Yes. There is no waiting period in Utah.
Do we need to live in Utah?
No. Anyone can get married in Utah.
Can we have a small elopement with just a few people?
Yes. Utah is very elopement-friendly.
Can our dog be part of the ceremony?
That depends on the location, not Utah law. Some parks allow pets, others do not.
Why Utah Is So Popular for Elopements
Utah makes getting married simple, which allows couples to focus on the experience instead of paperwork.
Couples love Utah because:
- The legal process is straightforward
- There’s no waiting period
- The landscapes are unreal
- It’s ideal for destination elopements
- You can build a day around adventure
From Moab’s red rock deserts to mountain views and wide open spaces, Utah offers freedom and flexibility that many other states do not.
Planning a Utah Elopement?
If you’re dreaming about getting married in Utah and want help planning a day that feels relaxed, meaningful, and true to you, I’d love to help.
I assist couples with:
- Location ideas
- Timeline planning
- Permit guidance
- Vendor recommendations
- Documenting the day in a natural, story-driven way
You can explore more resources here:
Or you can reach out directly to start planning your day.
Getting legally married in Utah is simple. Creating a day that feels like you is where the real magic happens.
