How to Walk In and Get Married in Vegas

If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” on a whim, there’s one place in the world that makes it easy: Las Vegas. The city has built an entire industry around spontaneous weddings, and yes, you really can walk in and get married the same day.

But while Vegas makes the process fast and fun, there are still a few official steps you’ll need to follow to make your marriage legal. Knowing what to bring, where to go, and what to expect will help you turn that impulsive idea into something special.

Here’s exactly how to walk in and get married in Las Vegas.

Step 1: Get Your Marriage License First

You can’t get your marriage license at the chapel. You’ll need to stop by the Clark County Marriage License Bureau first — it’s the only place that issues marriage licenses in Las Vegas. The bureau is located at 201 E. Clark Avenue, right near downtown and a short drive from the Strip.

The process is refreshingly simple. You just show up, fill out the paperwork, pay the fee, and walk out with your license — ready to use immediately.

Here’s what you’ll need to bring:

• A valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license, passport, or military ID)

• Both people present — you can’t send someone in your place

• The ~$100 license fee (payable by credit card or cash)

If you want to save time, you can pre-fill your application online at the Clark County Clerk’s website up to 60 days before your wedding. When you arrive, just tell the clerk you applied online and show your confirmation number. You’ll be in and out in minutes.

Step 2: Choose Your Chapel (or Venue)

With your license in hand, you can head straight to one of Las Vegas’s many wedding chapels. The city is full of options, from quick “walk-in” ceremonies to fully customized experiences.

If you want something iconic, you’ll find countless themed chapels along Las Vegas Boulevard. Some are vintage and cozy, others glamorous and modern. Many accept walk-ins, though it’s smart to call ahead to confirm availability — especially on holidays or special dates like Valentine’s Day or New Year’s Eve.

If you’d prefer a quieter or more scenic setting, you can also get married in a hotel suite, a rooftop venue, or even outdoors in Red Rock Canyon. You can hire an officiant who will travel to you. (This is a popular choice for couples who want a more personal touch without the chapel backdrop.)

No matter where you go, the key is to make sure the officiant or chapel is licensed by the state of Nevada. Reputable venues will display their credentials proudly and handle all the legal paperwork for you.

Step 3: Pick Your Ceremony Style

One of the best parts of a Vegas wedding is the variety. You can make it as traditional or as offbeat as you want.

Most chapels offer multiple packages that range from quick, 10-minute ceremonies to full-service experiences with flowers, photography, limo service, and music. You can even live-stream the event, so family and friends can watch in real time.

Step 4: Say “I Do” (Legally)

Once your ceremony begins, the officiant will guide you through the vows, the exchange of rings, and the pronouncement. The whole thing can take anywhere from five minutes to half an hour, depending on your package.

Afterward, your officiant will sign your marriage license — and this step is important. You’ll also need a witness present for it to be valid. Don’t worry if you didn’t bring one – most chapels provide a witness for free or a small fee.

Once signed, the officiant will file your paperwork with the Clark County Recorder’s Office, usually within 10 days. Your marriage is considered legal the moment the ceremony is completed, but you’ll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate for official purposes (like name changes or legal documents).

You can order your certified copy online or in person from the Recorder’s Office. It typically costs about $20 per copy and can be mailed anywhere in the world.

Step 5: Celebrate Your New Marriage

Just because you got married quickly doesn’t mean it can’t be special. Vegas gives you endless ways to celebrate afterward — a romantic dinner at a five-star restaurant, tickets to a show, a sunset photo session, or a champagne toast in your suite.

If you want to make the day feel extra memorable, consider booking a professional photographer or videographer who specializes in Las Vegas weddings. Many chapels include this service, but you can also hire someone separately to capture photos along the Strip or at a scenic desert location.

Vegas Marriage Rules You Should Know

Even though Vegas makes it easy to tie the knot, there are still a few important rules to keep in mind:

• Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If you’re 17, you’ll need a court order and parental consent.

• You must appear in person together at the Marriage License Bureau — no proxies allowed.

• You can’t already be married to someone else. (Yes, they check.)

• You must bring valid identification to prove your name and age.

• There’s no residency requirement — visitors from anywhere in the world can marry in Nevada.

Adding it All Up

So, can you really just walk in and get married in Vegas? Absolutely — and thousands of couples do it every year.

All it takes is a quick stop at the Marriage License Bureau, a short drive to a chapel, and a few heartfelt words to make it official. Whether you’re eloping on a whim or planning a low-key, romantic getaway, Las Vegas makes it easy.