Marriage-Friendly States / Best States to Get Married In 2025

Idaho

Idaho can usually be found at the top of many lists when it comes to lax marriage rules. Obtaining a marriage license in Idaho is much easier, and has no waiting period. Most states require a minimum of a 24-hour waiting period after obtaining the license to officially have a ceremony and sign documents to be officially considered in matrimony with one another. Marriage licenses in this state also have no expiration date, whereas most other states declare that you must get married within a certain amount of time after obtaining the license, usually up to 90 days. This means that couples can plan their wedding years while already having a marriage license.

One of the biggest advantages that Idaho has over the other states is that a witness is not necessary. This means that if you and your loved one are planning to elope, you only need to decide this together, without the burden of having to bring someone to observe your ceremony if you so choose. Finally, marriage in Idaho is possible for everyone in the United States, meaning you do not have to be a resident of the state to get a marriage license.

Georgia

Georgia is a very relaxed state in terms of rules for obtaining a marriage license, but slightly more stringent on these regulations than Idaho. There are no waiting periods for the marriage license, and there are no expiration dates - but there is a stipulation. After you have performed your ceremony, religious or otherwise, the signed permit must be sent into the registry within 30 days. Much like in Idaho, there is no need to be a resident of Georgia to get married to one another, but it does bring advantages if you are considered a resident of this state.

For example, if one person resides permanently in Georgia, they can receive a permit from any county within the state. Only one person is required to be Georgian for this to be held. If both parties are not from Georgia, they must obtain the license in the county of their wedding venue beforehand.

Nevada

Of course, there is no list for quick marriages that do not include Nevada, and more specifically, Las Vegas. Vegas is an extremely popular place for elopement, which has been further glamorized by Hollywood and populated culture. Although it may come as a shock that it is not always ranked very highly on the list. Vegas may have many things, including impersonators and amazing venues. Marriage licenses have no waiting periods, but the application does have an expiry date of 12 months. You must also apply for the permit within 90 days of having the ceremony. The application, however, is quick and easy - and you have much more access to information.

The waiting period and insistence on the date of filing don’t make Nevada the quickest state to get married in, but it does make it the most accessible within Las Vegas.