Kentucky Marriage License Guide (2026)
A Kentucky marriage license is issued by the County Clerk. State law sets at least $41.00: $26.50 for the license, indexing, recording and certificate (KRS 64.012(1)(n)), a $10.00 records-storage reimbursement (KRS 64.012(3)(a)) and the $4.50 state marriage-license tax (KRS 142.010(1)(a)). Both parties must appear in person to apply. Counties may charge more - Henderson County, for example, charges $60.00.
The one thing to knowBoth parties must appear in person - there is no pre-download application form.
The process
- Both parties appear in person
There is no pre-download form; you and your partner must apply together at the County Clerk's office.
- Pay the fee
State law sets at least $41.00 — $26.50 for the license, indexing, recording and certificate (KRS 64.012(1)(n)), a $10.00 records-storage reimbursement (KRS 64.012(3)(a)) and the $4.50 state marriage-license tax (KRS 142.010(1)(a)). Confirm your county's total with the clerk.
- Receive the license
The clerk issues the marriage license once your application is complete.
Marriage license fees by county — all 120 Kentucky counties
Kentucky-specific details
State law sets at least $41.00: $26.50 for the license, indexing, recording and certificate (KRS 64.012(1)(n)), a $10.00 records-storage reimbursement (KRS 64.012(3)(a)) and the $4.50 state marriage-license tax (KRS 142.010(1)(a)). The $26.50 alone is one line of that, not the whole fee. Counties may charge more - Henderson County charges $60.00. Always verify the exact amount with your local clerk.
What to bring
- Both parties, present in person
- The fee: at least $41.00 under state law; confirm your county’s total
- Valid photo identification
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Kentucky marriage license?
At least $41.00 under state law: $26.50 for the license, indexing, recording and certificate (KRS 64.012(1)(n)), a $10.00 records-storage reimbursement (KRS 64.012(3)(a)) and the $4.50 state marriage-license tax (KRS 142.010(1)(a)). Counties may charge more.
Who issues the license?
The County Clerk issues Kentucky marriage licenses.
Do both of us have to come in person?
Yes. Both parties must appear in person, and there is no pre-download form.
Can the fee be higher than $41.00?
Yes. $41.00 is the minimum state law sets; counties may charge more. Henderson County, for instance, charges $60.00.
What does the fee cover?
$26.50 covers indexing, recording and the certificate (KRS 64.012(1)(n)); the $10.00 storage reimbursement and the $4.50 state tax are added to it.