Eloping in The San Juan Mountains of Colorado: The Entire Marriage License Process

Let's get you two hitched!

As an elopement photographer working in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, one of the most common questions couples ask me is how to get a marriage license for their elopement. The good news is that Colorado makes the entire process incredibly easy, allowing you to focus on the adventure, the scenery, and the meaning behind your day. Whether you’re imagining a sunrise ceremony in the mountains, an intimate lakeside vow exchange, or a private moment tucked into an alpine forest, the Colorado marriage license process is simple, fast, and perfect for couples planning an elopement.

The Process
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Another Fun Thing About Your Colorado Marriage License
After You've Said I Do
A Few Other Things to Consider
When It's All Said and Done
Some Helpful Links

GET IN TOUCH TO PLAN YOUR ELOPEMENT

THE PROCESS

STEP 1: LET'S GET TO IT!

To begin the process in Colorado:

Both partners must appear in person at any county clerk and recorder’s office or begin the process online
You’ll need valid identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. If either partner has been married before, you’ll also need the exact date that previous marriage legally ended. No documentation is required—just accurate information.
Some counties offer walk-ins, while others require appointments during peak elopement seasons, so checking ahead is always smart.
One of the biggest advantages—especially for couples traveling from out of state—is that the marriage license is valid everywhere in the state. That means you can pick it up in Denver and get married anywhere else in the state.
The Colorado marriage license fee is typically around $30.00.

Step 2: Elopement Day!!

After you get your marriage license, there is no waiting period, so get out there and say I do!!
Or wait until the next day, either way the license is valid for 35 days so you can say "I do" day ONE!
But if weather or travel delays get in your way it's no worries as long as you don't wait past 35 days to return the license.

Step 3: do the right thing

You must return the signed license to the same County Clerk's office that you picked it up in.
This is a requirement.
Some offices allow you to mail it in while others require you to bring it back in person. Best to check when you pick up the license so you fulfill this requirement and don't get stuck with technicalities putting a damper on your day.

A newly married couple embracing on steps of the courthouse in Ouray with white columns and arched doorway on a sunny day.

HAVE A QUESTION, SAY HI!

Another fun thing about your Colorado Marriage license:

Colorado makes getting married so easy. In Colorado it is totally possible for you to self-solemnize, you don’t need an officiant or witnesses. That means you can get married just the two of you, private, intimate and without pretense or feeling like you have to put on a show for someone. This also means that your dog can legally “sign” your marriage license with a paw print, which is not only allowed but has become one of the most beloved parts of the Colorado elopement experience. It’s personal, intimate, and makes for an unforgettable moment (and adorable photos).

A bride and groom in wedding attire pose with golden retriever dog outdoors near lake, helping pet sign marriage certificate.

After you've said "I Do"

After your ceremony:

Sign your marriage license (or your dog has added their paw print)
Return the license to the same county clerk's office. It must go back to the same county clerk's office you picked it up from.
Most counties require it to be returned within sixty-three days of signing. You can mail it back or drop it off in person, whichever is required by the office you picked it up in.
Once it’s recorded, you can request certified copies to use for name changes, legal updates, and personal records. I always recommend couples order a couple of extra copies right away to make everything easier once they get home.

And that's it. The license process. It's actually pretty simple right!!?

A few other things to consider:

Some of the best places to elope in the San Juan Moutains have high elevation.
Elevation sickness is a real thing and is no joke. The malaise, fatigue and headaches can really put a damper on an otherwise epic day.
I recommend being in the state at least 2 days prior to your elopement to acclimatize and acclimate. This allows you to go get that license without feeling like you are on a crushed timeline.
Most county clerk's offices are only open Monday-Thursday
you will want to arrive in Colorado early to mid-week in order to get your license when the office is open.
Being in the state mid-week has other benefits as well.
Eloping mid-week which gives you a far better chance of having that sweet location all to yourself without another soul in sight.
This is especially true if you are planning a San Juan Mountains elopement in the peak wildflower season or during peak fall colors. These are highly coveted times of year to elope in Colorado.
Mid-week also allows you first choice on restaurant reservations, and lodging availability. It's a win win!

A bride and groom walking hand in hand on rocky terrain with their white dog, in a mountain forest backdrop near Ouray.

A bride holds her veil out of her face and looks back at her dog who stands near as her groom says vows to her near a mountain lake.

When it's all said and done...

The beauty of a San Juan Mountains elopement in Colorado goes far beyond the views; it’s in the freedom and ease of the entire process. No residency requirements, no officiant or witnesses, no waiting period, and endless landscapes to explore. The marriage license fits seamlessly into the flow of your week, allowing you to focus on the connection, the adventure, and the moment you choose to say your vows. Whether you’re hiking to a high alpine overlook, exploring a meadow of wildflowers, or exchanging vows with your dog at your side, Colorado gives you the space to begin your marriage in the most authentic way possible.