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1. Who can solemnize our marriage/certify our civil union?

A marriage may be solemnized or Civil Union may be certified by judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials and clergy, or by the couple themselves. We do not provide officiants but you are welcome to invite one to your appointment. A friend or relative may not solemnize the marriage or certify the union unless they are a judge or clergy (ordained with a religious title).   

If you wish for your ceremony to be officiated by a court judge, please call for more information:  

• 18th Judicial District Court in Centennial: 303-645-6666  
• Arapahoe County Court in Littleton: 720-568-4835 

2. What do we need to bring to apply for a license?

See this printer-friendly PDF in English or Spanish with all you’ll need to bring.  

3. Do my partner and I both need to come to the appointment?

Both applicants should appear in person to apply for and sign the marriage application. If one party cannot appear because they are ill, out-of-state or incarcerated, they must complete the Marriage Absentee Application Form or Civil Union Absentee Application Form and have it notarized in advance. The party applying must bring the absentee application and valid identification for the absent party. If the absent party does not have a social security number, they must fill out the Social Security Affidavit and have it notarized.  

4. When will we receive our license?

Your Marriage license /Civil Union license is valid as soon as you complete the application in our office.  

5. Can we use our license outside Colorado?

No. You must complete your license application in Colorado. Once your license is recorded, all other states will recognize your marriage/union. 

6. What is a Civil Union?

A “Civil Union” is a relationship established by two eligible parties, pursuant to CRS 14-15-104, that entitles them to receive the benefits and protections (and be subject to the responsibilities of) spouses.