Guide for Getting Married in Olmsted County, Rochester, MN: Courthouse Wedding at the Government Center

If some administrative procedures seem complicated, don’t worry; getting married is quite easy.

You will find in this article all you need to know to officially get married in Rochester, MN: how to apply and how to get a marriage licence, how and where to get married.

You will see it’s quite simple and straightforward; all you need are your vital records to apply for a marriage license online and to schedule an appointment.

We will help you with a step-by-step guide. At the end, we will address all the most common questions. For more information, you can also print our guide to getting married in Rochester, MN.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney or legal advisor for specific legal guidance.

Let’s begin.

What is a courthouse wedding?

As its name suggests, a courthouse wedding designates a couple getting married in a courthouse (as opposed to couples getting married at a church or other wedding venues). This courthouse is often held in the city hall and is frequently called a city hall wedding.

To clarify: In Rochester, MN, judges do not solemnize civil unions except in exceptional cases. A court administrator performs this task. Therefore, in Rochester, MN, it would be more accurate to say a “Government Center wedding.”

Common Reasons Couples Choose Courthouse Weddings

A courthouse wedding can be advantageous in several circumstances.

• For the stress-free planning aspect, filing a form and signing a license is significantly less stressful than planning a large wedding.
• For the budget-friendly aspect.
• The couple doesn’t identify with classic wedding traditions.
• For various legal reasons, such as insurance, immigration status, military deployment, or job benefits.
• For time efficiency, you may need to get married promptly for any reason.
• To avoid family drama (e.g., Romeo and Juliet scenarios).
• For flexibility in future celebrations, you may wish to get married outside the USA without cumbersome paperwork.
• For privacy and intimacy, you may desire a wedding reception, but prefer not to be the center of attention with hundreds of guests.

How to get legally married at the Courthouse or Government Center in 7 Steps

Follow this step-by-step guide to get married.

Step One: Gather Your Vital Records

To get married, you will need documents that prove your identity. These could include your driver’s license, state ID, or passport. A birth certificate is not required.

If you have been previously married, you must provide information regarding the termination of your most recent marriage, including the date, location, and, if applicable, the name of the court where the marriage was dissolved. If your previous spouse is deceased, the date and place of death will suffice, though you may bring the death certificate if you have it.

Finally, you will also need your Social Security Number (SSN).

Step Two: Premarital Education Statement

This seminar is optional (not mandatory). It requires a commitment of time (12 hours of education), but it can save you $75. It encourages couples to discuss essential topics such as communication, conflict resolution, and financial planning prior to marriage.

The education must be provided by a licensed or ordained minister or the minister’s designee, a person authorized to solemnize marriages under this section, or a person authorized to practice marriage and family therapy under section 148B.33.
In other words, it typically occurs at a church, a counselor’s office, or a therapist’s office.

If you are in a rush and wish to save time, consider skipping it. 

Step three: Apply for a marriage license online

You will need a marriage license, whether you decide to get married at a church, a large venue, or in a backyard.

The Minnesota Official Marriage System (MOMS) website allows you to apply for a marriage license in approximately 5 minutes.
You will be asked simple questions, such as your date of birth, current address, and whether you are blood-related.

Step four: go to the Government Center to get your marriage license

Once your marriage license is ready, you must sign and pay for it.

Both parties must physically go to sign the marriage license at the Government Center.
The address is:
Olmsted County Government Center
Vital Records and Licensing
151 4th Street South East, Rochester, MN 55904

Finally, regarding payment, the fees are $115 or $40 if you complete a Premarital Education Statement.

At this point, you are nearly married. To finalize the procedure, you need an authorized officiant and two witnesses to sign the certificate, which must then be returned to the county.
Therefore, you can do it at the Government Center or, like most people, during a ceremony at a different location (e.g., a wedding venue, a church, or your backyard).

Step Five: Schedule your appointment with a court administrator for your civil ceremony

As mentioned earlier, in Rochester, MN, it’s typically the court administrator who will solemnize and sign your marriage certificate. Call the government center directly to schedule an appointment +1(507)-722-7264

Administrators have many other responsibilities besides solemnizing weddings, and they have busy schedules. You will need to schedule an appointment with them.
Keep in Mind that your Marriage Licence is valid for “only 6 months”. It’s best to schedule your appointment as soon as possible, and two to four weeks in advance is a reasonable time frame.

As of the time of writing (2025), Hans Holland is the court administrator in Rochester.

Step Six: Get Your Witnesses

To get married, you need two witnesses who are over 16 years old and can present a valid ID or passport.

Step Seven: Get Married

It’s the big day; come to the Olmsted Government Center.
On-site parking is available at a cost of $1.40 per hour.

Arrive a bit earlier and follow the signs. Say “I do” and get married!

Once the ceremony is complete, they will handle the paperwork, so you do not have to send it to the county.

And voilà. Now, let’s address most of the questions and highlight important points.

Do you need a photographer documenting your courthouse wedding?

Whether it’s an intimate ceremony with only the two of you and your witnesses, or a bigger courthouse ceremony, I believe it’s worth having a photographer documenting it. Indeed, from the first second you wake up on that day, you will probably have butterflies in your stomach.
Let’s be honest, it’s often more than just a formality, just some paperwork. It’s binding you together (even if it’s not the most romantic way).
And when emotion is present, then you probably want a photographer to capture all the little moments to be able to remember them forever.

What I really like about courthouse weddings is when there are many friends and family members. Kids are especially fun to photograph. A lot of funny, unexpected situations could happen that are worth being photographed.

Where to go for your family photos after your courthouse wedding at the Rochester Government Center?

If, like most people, you want a few group photos with your friends and family members, you will have to find a place to take nice shots.
But where should you go?
You don’t need to look very far away. Rochester Downtown has plenty of options. Here is a short list, depending on your project for the rest of the day:

• The Rochester Art Center South Plaza, just across the bridge. It’s less than 5 minutes walking and has a modern architecture.
• The Mayo Park: If you need a bit of trees and area in the shade, the Mayo Park, located just behind the Rochester Art Center and Civic Center, is the place to go.
• The Rochester Civic Center: This is the ideal covered location in case of rain. It’s mostly bright and, most of all, it’s covered and protected from bad weather. Perfect in winter.
• The River Walk (next to the Our Paladar Restaurant), alongside the South Branch of the Zumbro River. You can even use the train rails for a few married couple photos.
• One of Rochester’s Parking Rooftops, for a more “big city” vibe. I suggest the 2nd Street Parking Ramp or the Civic Center Parking Ramp.
• One of the numerous little back brick streets in Downtown Rochester.

Should you do Bride and Groom / Partners Photos on your courthouse Day? If so, where?

For some people, getting legally married is just paperwork. For others (like me), it’s an important event, and you want to keep good photos of it. If you’re looking for city vibes for bride and groom or partner photos, the Downtown area of Rochester, MN, is a great choice.
Consider locations like the Plummer Building, Peace Plaza, Civic Center South Plaza, or one of the streets lined with red brick buildings.

For a more natural setting, you might want to explore :

• The Historic Plummer House Backyard (ensure that no other events are taking place)
• Silver Lake
• Quarry Hill
• Chester Woods.
• Oxbow Park

For more options, I invite you to check out the entire list of locations for bride and groom photos in Rochester, MN.

Example of an Afternoon Timeline for your Marriage at the Olmsted County Government Center.

For couples planning a portrait session, aiming for golden hour (the magical hour or two before sunset, typically 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM, depending on the season) is ideal for stunning photos. Here’s how your afternoon could unfold:

• 2:30 PM: Arrive at the Courthouse (allow extra time for parking and check-in).
• 3:00 PM: Ceremony begins (ceremonies are often brief, around 15-20 minutes).
• 3:45 PM: Exit the Courthouse and enjoy your first moments as a married couple!
• 4:00 PM: Take your family and group pictures.
• 4:30 PM: Travel to your pre-selected portrait locations.
• 4:45 PM: Your portrait session begins, capturing beautiful memories during the best light.
• 5:45 PM: Approximate time to conclude your portrait session.
• 6:00 PM: If you’re planning a celebratory dinner

How to Announce Your Courthouse Elopement to your non-invited friends and family members

Even if your ceremony is intimate, you’ll likely want to share your joyous news! Consider these options:

• Photo Announcement: Share a favorite photo from your wedding day on social media or with an email to friends and family.
• Personalized Postcards/Announcements: Send out custom cards with a photo and a brief message announcing your marriage. This adds a lovely personal touch.
• Intimate Gathering: Host a small reception or dinner at a later date to celebrate with loved ones who weren’t present.

What to Wear for Your Courthouse Wedding

It’s a special day, you have the opportunity (not the obligation) to dress in a more sophisticated way than usual. The beauty of a courthouse wedding is its flexibility. From casual chic to full wedding attire, you can choose outfits that reflect your personal style and make you feel comfortable and authentic.

Of course, if you can go with the classical white wedding dress for her, and the suit for him. You can make them dramatic if you want (even if the long train is usually more associated with the church). You can decide to go in different style:

There is no strict rule.
Physical Comfort and psychological comfort are key: you’ll be standing, walking, and posing for photos, so ensure your clothing and shoes allow for ease of movement. You want to feel at your best, and most of all, avoid feeling ridiculous (which can happen when we wear a dress and we are not used to it).

Before deciding, imagine yourselves exchanging vows. What do you want to remember wearing in those cherished memories? This helps narrow down your choices and ensures you’re happy with your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Wedding at the Olmsted County Courthouse in Rochester, MN

Are wedding photographers allowed in the ceremony room?

Yes, assuming your wedding photographer is considered a guest, they are welcome to take pictures at the Government Center during the ceremony. No permit is required.

Do photographers typically cover courthouse weddings?

Yes, many couples like to have this moment documented.
You can opt to have an engagement session prior to your wedding day to familiarize yourself with your photographer, request coverage of the ceremony only, or include the ceremony, family photos, a short couple’s session in the city, and your reception, if applicable.

Can you livestream or record the courthouse ceremony for loved ones who cannot attend?

Wi-Fi is available throughout the Government Center.

Do we need a marriage license before scheduling the ceremony?

Yes. Go to Step Three.

How long is a marriage license valid?

It is valid for six months from the date of issuance. If you are unable to use it due to illness and need to renew it, you can do so for free.

Can a marriage license from another state be used?

No. If you reside in another state and wish to get married in Minnesota, you must apply for a license in Minnesota.

Can one marry the same day they apply for the marriage license?

No, Minnesota marriage laws include a five-day waiting period. Couples are required to wait five calendar days from the date the license application is submitted and accepted before the marriage ceremony can be held. The day the application is submitted does not count.

Under special circumstances, such as medical issues, military deployment, or other emergencies, a waiver of the waiting period can be requested from a district court judge.

Once a marriage license is ready, how long do applicants have to pick it up at the Government Center?

Applicants have 90 days to come to the office (both parties) to sign the license application.

How far in advance should we book our courthouse wedding?

The court administrator is quite flexible and performs this duty after other responsibilities. If they are available, a meeting can be scheduled at the last minute.

Booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance is recommended.

What does a courthouse ceremony entail?

It is typically quick, lasting approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The Court Administrator (or Judge in other counties) verifies the civil status of each individual getting married to ensure accuracy. Then, they ask each individual if they wish to get married.
They will then ask the two witnesses to sign. And voilà!
Note that you will be asked to arrive earlier.

Is there a fee for a courthouse ceremony at the Government Center?

Yes, there is a $200 fee to have your wedding ceremony at the courthouse in Rochester, MN.
If you are looking for a less expensive option, keep in mind that anyone (such as your best friend) can obtain an ordination certificate and solemnize your marriage.

Where does the ceremony take place?

At the Rochester Government Center, the ceremony can take place at two different locations:

• Inside the Rotunda
• Outside, behind the building, on the shore of the Zumbro River

At the Rochester Government Center, the ceremony can take place at two different locations:

• Inside the Rotunda
• Outside, behind the building, on the shore of the Zumbro River

How many people are allowed in the room?

For logistical considerations, the Court Administrator recommends no more than 20 guests.

Is a civil ceremony LGBTQ+-friendly?

Yes! A civil ceremony in Minnesota is LGBTQ+-friendly because same-sex marriage has been legal in the state since 2013 and nationwide since 2015. Many LGBTQ+ couples marry at the Government Center; some choose a location with a deeper meaning.

Can you exchange wedding rings during the ceremony?

Exchanging rings is not an obligation, but you are welcome to do so if you wish.

Do you say vow, and can you personalize your vows during a courthouse wedding?

Typically, courthouse ceremonies use standard vows, but many judges or officiants allow couples to exchange personal vows afterward. Confirm with your courthouse beforehand.

Can you or a guest read a short text during the ceremony?

Yes.

Can you have flowers, flower girls, and ring bearers?

Yes, they are welcome.

How to dress for a civil wedding at the courthouse?

There are no strict rules. It’s entirely up to you, as long as legal requirements are met. You can wear a white wedding dress if you wish, or simply a nice outfit.

Exit: Can you throw confetti?

Confetti and rice are not typically permitted at the Government Center, which strives to keep the premises as clean as possible.

Bubbles could be a great alternative.
If you wish to throw confetti and promise to clean it up afterward, the Government Center might authorize you to do so.

Can you choose the officiant for a courthouse wedding?

No, there is only one Court Administrator officiating weddings in Rochester, MN: Hans Holland.

Will the Court Administrator ask if anyone objects to the wedding?

No. While you may see the phrase “Does anyone object?” in movies, it’s not a legal requirement in Minnesota.

Once the marriage license is signed, how long do you have to send it to Olmsted County?

If you get married at the Government Center, they will handle it. If you get married outside the center, then you have 5 days to return it to the Olmsted County office.

Will a marriage certificate be received immediately?

No. After your ceremony, the Court Administrator will transfer your paperwork to the Vital Records department, which will then process it.
You will typically receive a marriage certificate shortly after your ceremony or by mail within one to two weeks.

Can a marriage certificate be received faster?

Yes, on the working day after the ceremony, you can come to the Government Center and request expedited delivery of your certificate. There are associated fees (typically $10–$20) to expedite the process.

Can one get married in another county within the state?

Yes, in any county within the state of Minnesota. So, if you obtain your marriage license in Rochester and wish to get married in Duluth or Austin, that is perfectly acceptable.

Can you get married in another State?

In Minnesota, if you applied for a marriage license in Minnesota, you should get married in Minnesota and not another state.
That being said, you can completely apply in another state to get married in another State. It’s called a Destination Wedding.
Keep in mind that each state has its own specific requirements for obtaining a marriage license (e.g., waiting periods, residency requirements for one or both parties, specific identification needed, fees, validity period of the license). You’ll need to research the laws of the specific state where you plan to marry.Once you are legally married in one state, that marriage is generally recognized as valid in all other U.S. states due to the principle of “full faith and credit”.

Can one get married in a foreign country?

If you are planning a destination wedding in another country and you wish to legally sign the official document in that country, your Minnesota marriage license will not be valid. You would have to follow that country’s rules and then have your marriage recognized in the USA.
For convenience, most couples getting married abroad would first get officially married in the USA and then conduct a symbolic ceremony in the other country with a ring exchange.

Who can be a witness?

Anyone 16 years old or older can be a witness, whether a U.S. citizen or a foreign national.

Do applicants need to bring their own witnesses, or can courthouse staff serve as witnesses?

The couple must bring their own two witnesses. Courthouse staff members will not act as witnesses.
In rare circumstances, if the couple cannot provide two witnesses, the court administrator might be able to find a solution by asking another couple getting married to be their witnesses. Of course, flexibility on your schedule would be required.

How does one change one’s name?

This is typically done when completing the online form to apply for your marriage license. After changing your name, you will have to update all the administrative entities with your new name: Bank, Insurance, Social Security, DMV, etc.

Can one change their name if they have a felony conviction?

No. A party who has a felony conviction under Minnesota law or the law of another state or federal jurisdiction may not use a different name after a civil marriage except as authorized by section 259.13; doing so constitutes a gross misdemeanor.

What if one’s partner is from another country? What documents should they provide?

A foreign national who is legally present in the US territory can get married in the USA.

All the necessary paperwork will be completed when applying for the marriage license. No additional documents are needed at the time of the ceremony. In most cases, a passport will suffice.

It is important to note that getting married does not authorize foreign nationals to reside in US territory, even though a marriage certificate is necessary when applying for a green card.

Is there an age requirement or parental consent needed for courthouse weddings?

In Minnesota, individuals must be 18 years or older to legally marry; minors under 18 are not permitted to marry, even with parental consent or court approval.

What to do after a civil marriage?

After a civil marriage, couples and their families often go to a restaurant downtown to celebrate with family and friends. They may also have a home party.
Another paperwork duty that comes with being newly married is also updating their marital status with the Social Security, their Bank, their employer, etc.
Don’t forget to change your Facebook status of your ex might continue to hope you come back :p.

Can one have a courthouse wedding now and a larger ceremony later?

Absolutely! Many couples legally marry at a courthouse first for practical reasons, then host a larger celebration or ceremony at a later date.

Can one marry a blood relative?

In Minnesota, marriages between close blood relatives, including children, grandchildren, first-degree cousins, nephews, nieces, brothers, and sisters, are prohibited.

Can one marry an adopted child?

No, marriage between parents and their adopted children is strictly prohibited across all U.S. states. Such relationships are illegal everywhere in the United States, regardless of biological or adoptive status.

Are courthouse weddings legally binding immediately?

Yes, courthouse weddings are legally recognized as soon as the marriage license is signed and filed.

What happens if one is running late on the wedding day?

Courthouse ceremonies often run on tight schedules. The court administrator has a short tolerance for delayed couples; if you are significantly late, your ceremony could be canceled or rescheduled.

Can one get a civil marriage on a Saturday?

No. The Olmsted County Government Center is open from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Getting married on a Saturday or Sunday is not an option.

The court administrator can recommend another officiant who can solemnize your marriage on the weekend.

Planning to get married outside the Center? Who can be the officiant?

If you wish to get married outside the center, then you will need an officiant.
In Minnesota, anyone 21 years old can become an officiant.
First, one needs to obtain an ordination certificate. This can be done through religious associations such as Universal Life Church (ULC) or non-religious ones such as American Marriage Ministries (AMM).
Then, one must register their credentials with the county and submit an application.

Planning to get married outside the Center? How does one obtain a marriage certificate?

After you have signed your marriage license, you must send it to the county within 5 days. The administration will process it. Then, you will automatically receive your marriage certificate by mail at the address provided in your marriage license application. If needed, additional copies can be ordered online.

Is the Government Center accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Yes, it’s fully accessible for individuals with visual and hearing disabilities and is wheelchair-friendly.

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Other Courthouse in Southeast Minnesota to Get Married.

If the Olmsted County Government Center can officiate a wedding ceremony, there are other courthouses nearby to get married:

• Hennepin County (Minneapolis)
• Rasmey County (Saint-Paul)
• Rice County (Faribault)
• Goodhue County (Red Wing)
• Winona County (Winona)
• Dakota County (Hastings)

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