How To Have A (Stress-free) Courthouse Wedding In Columbus, Ohio

It’s quick and meaningful—the ceremony usually lasts about 10 minutes at most!
It's an ideal choice for intimate celebrations with your closest loved ones—and you can always celebrate big afterward!
Low-stress and budget-friendly, without sacrificing special moments and memories, a wedding at the courthouse really helps calm some of those stage fright jitters.

Apply Online Within 30 Days before your in-person courthouse appointment make sure to visit Franklin County Probate Court
Go to Franklin County Probate Court (373 S. High Street, 23rd Floor):
- Both applicants must be present
- Bring a valid photo ID and your Social Security number (if you have one)
- If one applicant lives elsewhere, bring proof of Franklin County residency—like a utility bill or lease dated within 30 days.
Be prepared to provide documentation if you’ve been married before (i.e., a divorce decree or death certificate)
The fee is $65, you can pay by cash, money order, or credit/debit card
No waiting period—the license is valid immediately and lasts for 60 days

You’re halfway there!

Head to the Franklin County Municipal Court 10th Floor (375 S. High St.) to book your civil ceremony (Visit franklincountymunicourt.org) There are two important buildings to know and you don't want to confuse them on the wedding day!
Ceremonies are by appointment only, Monday to Friday and the last ceremony time is 4PM
Pay a $25 processing fee at the Civil Division on the 3rd floor
Bring your marriage license, certificate, and payment receipt on ceremony day. Ohio Courthouse wedding
Up to 16 guests are welcome, and you can take photos or record—just keep it brief and be respectful of other weddings happening that day.

It’s a short and sweet ceremony—typically 10 minutes long with most judges
Fun fact: No rings or witnesses are required but you are absolutely allowed to have them!
Afterwards, your officiant must return the signed certificate to the Probate Court to make your marriage official—then you can request certified copies (called “marriage abstracts”) for your records and name change purposes especially if you need it done quicker than normal.

Book a photographer 📸 that's where I can help out! There are plenty of spots to take portraits nearby including Bicentennial Park, Schiller Park, Ohio Statehouse and more.
Plan ahead for paperwork; Make sure to create a checklist ahead of time and bring everything you may need in one trip including all your documentation and receipts.
Consider adding meaningful touches like short personal vows, bringing along a keepsake or family heirloom-- maybe a piece of jewelry or a handkerchief you have been given by someone special to you.

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