New Mexico Marriage License Guide (2026)
New Mexico marriage licenses are issued by the County Clerk for $40 statewide, set by NMSA 1978 Section 40-1-11 (raised from $25 to $40 by 2024's HB 242). There is no waiting period and no residency requirement, and the license does not expire once issued. Both parties must appear in person with government-issued photo ID and provide Social Security numbers, and the officiant must return the completed license within 90 days of the ceremony.
The one thing to knowThe fee rose from $25 to $40 in 2024 (HB 242) - older sources may still list $25.
The process
- Both parties appear in person
Both parties must appear at the County Clerk with government-issued photo ID and provide Social Security numbers. There is no pre-download application.
- Pay the $40 fee
The fee is $40 statewide under NMSA 1978 Section 40-1-11, amended from $25 to $40 by 2024's HB 242.
- Marry and return the license
The license does not expire and is usable anywhere in New Mexico. The officiant must return the completed license to the issuing county clerk within 90 days of the ceremony.
Marriage license fees by county — all 33 New Mexico counties
What to bring
- Government-issued photo ID for both parties
- Social Security numbers for both parties
- Both parties in person
- Payment of $40
Frequently asked questions
How much is a New Mexico marriage license?
$40 statewide, set by NMSA 1978 Section 40-1-11. It rose from $25 to $40 via HB 242 in 2024.
Does the license expire?
No. Once issued it is valid indefinitely.
Is there a waiting period?
No. There is no waiting period and no residency requirement.
When must the license be returned?
The officiant must return it to the issuing county clerk within 90 days of the ceremony.