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Milwaukee County processes marriage licenses through the County Clerk’s office at the Milwaukee County Courthouse, by appointment only.
| License fee | $120, due at filing and non-refundable. Paid by cash or credit/debit card (a 3% card convenience fee applies); personal checks are not accepted. |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | 3 days after the application is filed (Wisconsin statewide rule) — apply at least 4 days before your wedding date to account for it. |
| Documents / ID required | Both applicants need their Social Security cards. If either was previously married, a certified divorce judgment, dissolution/annulment record, or death certificate ending the prior marriage is required. |
| License validity | 60 days from issuance (Wisconsin statewide rule). |
| Where & how to apply | Book an appointment through the County Clerk’s online booking calendar (available up to 30 days ahead) — walk-ins are not accepted. Both applicants must appear together at the appointment. |
| Office hours | Milwaukee County Courthouse, Room 105, 901 N. 9th St., Milwaukee, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. |
Special notes
The Register of Deeds — a separate office from the County Clerk — issues certified copies of a recorded marriage certificate for $20; this is separate from the $120 license fee paid to the Clerk.
Frequently asked questions
Do we need an appointment to get a marriage license in Milwaukee County?
Yes. Milwaukee County only issues marriage licenses by appointment, booked online up to 30 days in advance — walk-ins are not accepted, and both applicants must appear together.
How long do we have to wait after applying in Wisconsin?
State law requires a 3-day waiting period after the application is filed before the license can be issued, so apply at least 4 days before your wedding date.
Official source: Milwaukee County Clerk — https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/County-Clerk/Marriage-License
Last verified: September 2026
Last verified: September 2026
Read our general step-by-step guide →
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