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Order Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

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Vital Records Online is not affiliated with any government agency. We provide a secure online service to help customers file applications for certified vital records to the appropriate state or county office. Free application forms are available directly from the Wisconsin Vital Records Office.

Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

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Wisconsin Marriage Certificate Overview

Learn how to order Wisconsin marriage certificate from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services - Vital Records Office (Wisconsin DHS-VRO). Your required documents must be submitted; the current processing time is 1 to 2 weeks. The state fee for certified copies is $20.00; additional copies cost $3.00 each when ordered simultaneously.

Wisconsin marriage certificate: where to get records guide

Where to Get a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

In Wisconsin, certified copies of marriage certificate can be obtained from two sources: the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), Vital Records Office and the register of deeds in the county where the marriage license was issued.

Wisconsin DHS Vital Records — The state office maintains marriage records from 1836 to the present — one of the longest-running state registries in the country. You can request copies by mail, in person in Madison, or through an authorized online provider. The fee is $20 for a certified copy. Visit the WI Vital Records website for details.

County Register of Deeds — The register of deeds in the county where the marriage was recorded also maintains copies. Wisconsin has 72 counties, each with its own office. In-person requests at the county level are often processed more quickly.

For the fastest and most convenient option, you can order your Wisconsin marriage certificate online through our guided application service.

Wisconsin marriage certificate: state versus county records guide

Is a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate Issued by the State or County?

Wisconsin marriage certificate originate at the county level. Couples obtain their marriage license from the county clerk's office. After the ceremony, the officiant returns the signed certificate to the register of deeds in the county where the license was issued.

The register of deeds then forwards the record to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, which maintains the statewide vital records registry. Both the county and the state can issue certified copies.

Wisconsin's vital records system dates back to 1836, making it one of the oldest in the nation. Both the state and county offices can provide certified copies for any marriage in the registry.

Wisconsin marriage certificate: waiting period guide

Wisconsin Marriage Waiting Period and Marital Property Laws

Wisconsin has a six-day waiting period between applying for a marriage license and when the license is issued — one of the longer waiting periods in the country. Once issued, the license is valid for 30 days. A court order can waive the waiting period in certain circumstances.

Wisconsin is one of only nine community property states in the U.S. (referred to as "marital property" in Wisconsin law). Under the Wisconsin Marital Property Act, most assets and income acquired during the marriage are considered equally owned by both spouses, which has significant implications for divorce and estate planning.

Wisconsin does not recognize common-law marriages formed within the state. All marriages require a formal license and a ceremony performed by an authorized officiant, including judges, clergy, and certain other officials designated by law.

There is no residency requirement to marry in Wisconsin. Both parties must be at least 18 years old, or 16 with parental and court consent. The marriage license fee varies by county but typically ranges from $75 to $120.

How to Order State of Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

You can now order Wisconsin marriage certificate through VRO’s online filing service. VRO offers a secure and simple way to order marriage certificate. We handle the entire application process, ensuring accuracy and ease. Your application is securely delivered to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS – Vital Records Office) for processing, allowing them to issue and mail your marriage certificate to you. You can place the order yourself in person or by mail through the Wisconsin DHS-VR office by following the specific steps and meeting certain requirements. Be sure to confirm and review the costs, eligibility, requirements, and current processing times before ordering to ensure a smooth application process.

Online and Phone Ordering

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services offers online ordering through authorized service providers.

You can request a Wisconsin marriage certificate online or by phone using the authorized online service. Phone orders can be placed by calling 877-885-2981.

Online and phone orders are typically processed faster than mail requests. Expedited processing options may also be available through the authorized online service for an additional fee


Person ordering a marriage certificate with a phone using VRO

Ordering with VRO

Requesting a Wisconsin marriage certificate through our online filing service is quick and easy.

  1. Complete the online application and upload your documents.
  2. Process your order.

Starting from

$29+ state fees

Benefits of Ordering Online with VRO

  • 5 minutes process
  • No waiting in lines
  • No handling paperwork or mail
  • Simplified application process
  • 24 hour service
  • Online assistance by specialists
  • Verification and error-checking
  • Order tracking
  • Online notary
  • Pay online by credit card
  • Remote processing time

Get Started Online

required documents

What Documents Are Required to Order a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate?

To obtain a certified copy of a Wisconsin marriage certificate, applicants must verify their identity by submitting an accepted form of identification. Valid photo IDs include a driver's license, passport, or military ID. If you do not have a government-issued ID, you can provide two secondary forms of identification instead, such as a bank statement and a lease.

The table below outlines the documents and information needed to order a certified copy of a Wisconsin marriage certificate.


Primary ID Requirements Options

Secondary ID Requirements Options

State-issued driver’s license or ID card
US Government-issued photo ID
US or Foreign passport
Tribal or Military ID card

Bank/Earnings statement
Current, dated, signed lease
Health insurance card
Utility bill or traffic ticket
Vehicle registration/title


Cost & fees

What Are the Costs and Fees Associated with Replacing a Marriage Certificate in Wisconsin?

The cost for obtaining a certified marriage record varies based on the fees defined by the Wisconsin DHS-VR office and your preferred application method. The Wisconsin DHS-VR office charges a $20.00 fee for a marriage certificate and $3.00 for each additional copy when ordered simultaneously. When using VRO's online filing service, the fee starts at $29.00, plus state fees. VRO provides a secure online solution for ordering marriage certificate.


State Fee

$20.00


Rush Processing

Not Available


Additional Copy

1 x $3.00

Processing time

How Long Does It Take to Process and Receive a Marriage Certificate in Wisconsin?

The time required to receive a Wisconsin marriage certificate depends on how you submit your request. Mail requests: Approximately 10 business days for processing, not including mailing time. Processing begins once the Wisconsin Department of Health Services receives and reviews your complete application. Delays may occur if required documents or information are missing.

Processing time does not include delivery time. You should allow additional time for your certificate to arrive by mail.

Mail requests

Approximately 10 business days for processing, not including mailing time.

Rush Processing Time

Not Available


Authorization

Who is Authorized to Order a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate?

In Wisconsin, individuals listed on a marriage certificate can request a copy by submitting proof of identity with the application. If you wish to request a certified copy on someone else's behalf, you must have the necessary authorization from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records (DHS-VR) office. Below is a list of authorized individuals authorized to order a marriage certificate.



Authorized People


Certified Wisconsin marriage certificate is available to individuals with a direct and tangible interest in the record.

The persons named on the marriage certificate (both spouses) are the primary authorized requesters.

Other authorized individuals may include parents, children, siblings, grandparents, legal guardians, authorized agents, and legal representatives acting on behalf of the persons on record.

All applicants must provide valid identification and documentation proving their relationship or legal interest when required.

Do I Need to Notarize My Application for a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate?

The Wisconsin DHS does not require applicants to provide notarized statements when requesting certified copies of marriage certificate, regardless of the request method.

Tracking

How to Track the Status of Your Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

When you place an order with VRO, you can track the status of your application online as we handle it. VRO verifies your documents before sending them to the Wisconsin DHS-Vital Records Office for processing. You can also request mail tracking through VRO to monitor your application's progress to the DHS – Vital Records Office.

When manually mailing your marriage certificate request to the DHS – Vital Records Office, you must include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your application. Mail tracking is recommended to guarantee your certificate's timely handling and secure delivery. Once records leave the state office, they are not responsible for lost or misdirected certificates.

frequently asked questions

Other FAQs


  • How Much Does a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate Cost?

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    The fee for a certified copy of a Wisconsin marriage certificate varies by county and ordering method. When ordering through VitalRecordsOnline.com, processing fees apply in addition to the state or county fee. Contact your local vital records office or county clerk for the exact current fee schedule. Expedited processing and shipping options are available for an additional charge.

  • Can I Order a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate Online?

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    Yes, you can order a Wisconsin marriage certificate online through VitalRecordsOnline.com. The online process allows you to submit your application, provide required information, and pay securely. Online orders are typically processed faster than mail-in requests. You will need to provide identifying information about both spouses and the date and location of the marriage.

  • Can Someone Else Request My Wisconsin Marriage Certificate?

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    In Wisconsin, the individuals named on the marriage certificate, their immediate family members, legal representatives, and those with a direct and tangible interest may request a certified copy. Third-party requestors typically need to provide a notarized authorization letter from one of the parties named on the certificate, along with valid identification and a statement explaining the purpose of the request.

  • Are Wisconsin Marriage Records Public?

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    Wisconsin marriage records are generally considered public records. However, access to certified copies may be limited to authorized individuals such as the parties named on the certificate, their family members, or those with a legitimate legal need. Informational or non-certified copies may be available for genealogical research and other purposes. Contact the Wisconsin vital records office for specific access policies.

  • What Is the Difference Between a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate and a Marriage License?

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    A marriage license is the document you obtain before your wedding that legally authorizes you to marry in Wisconsin. A marriage certificate is the official record proving your marriage took place. After your ceremony, the officiant signs the license and returns it to the appropriate office for filing. Once recorded, it becomes the official marriage certificate. You need the certificate for legal purposes like name changes, insurance benefits, tax filing, and immigration applications.

  • Where Can I Get a Copy of a Marriage Certificate in Wisconsin?

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    You can obtain a certified copy of a Wisconsin marriage certificate from the state vital records office, the county clerk or recorder where the marriage was filed, or online through VitalRecordsOnline.com. For older records, you may need to contact the county directly or the state archives. Processing times vary by method, with online and in-person requests typically being the fastest options.

  • How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

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    If you lose your marriage certificate:

    1. Submit an application for a certified replacement copy in person, by mail, or online through VRO. You will need to complete the application, gather the required identification and documents, and pay the fees determined by the DOH-Vital Records Office.
      1. For in-person applications: Present the completed application and required documents to a county health department.
      2. For applying by mail: Send your application, documents, and a check or money order for the replacement fee to the DOH-Vital Records Office at:
        Records OfficeWisconsin Department of Health Services,
        Vital Records Office,
        PO Box 309,
        Madison, WI 53701
        Records Office
      3. For online submissions: Complete the application and upload your documents through the VRO website (payable by credit card online).
    2. DOH-Vital Records Office will mail the certified copy(s) after processing.


  • How to Correct or Amend a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

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    If the marriage occurred over a year ago, you will need a court order to make any corrections. To initiate this process, mail a certified copy of the record to the Wisconsin DHS-VR office, along with a note that outlines what information is incorrect and what the correct details should be. The Wisconsin DHS-VR office will then review the record and provide you with the necessary court order form and instructions if required.

    In cases where you do not have a certified copy of the record, you can apply for one through the standard application process. Make sure to explain in your application what information is incorrect and what the accurate details should be. If needed, the Wisconsin DHS-VR office will assess your application and send you the appropriate court order form and instructions.


  • How to Obtain an Apostille for a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate

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    Marriage Record Availability and Search Periods

    Wisconsin marriage records are available from October 1907 to the present through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

    For older records, search fees may vary depending on the date range requested. Records from October 1907 through 1972 are indexed in single-year increments, while records from 1973 to present are indexed across multiple years.

    If you are requesting a historical record and are unsure of the exact date, additional search time may be required.

  • What Does a Wisconsin Marriage Certificate Look Like?

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    Marriage Record Availability and Search Periods

    Wisconsin marriage records are available from October 1907 to the present through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

    For older records, search fees may vary depending on the date range requested. Records from October 1907 through 1972 are indexed in single-year increments, while records from 1973 to present are indexed across multiple years.

    If you are requesting a historical record and are unsure of the exact date, additional search time may be required.