Everything You Need to Know for Eloping or Getting Married in East Tennessee
If you’re planning an elopement or micro wedding in the Smoky Mountains, one of the most important (but often overlooked) steps is getting your Tennessee marriage license. Whether you’re saying “I do” on a misty mountaintop, in a cozy chapel in the woods, or at a creekside Airbnb, this legal step is essential to make it all official.
The good news? Tennessee makes it super easy—especially compared to many other states.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- Where to go
- What to bring
- How much it costs
- When to apply
- What to do after your wedding
…and a few bonus tips to make it a smooth process.
Let’s break it down.
Where to Get Your Tennessee Marriage License
You can get a marriage license at any county clerk’s office in the state of Tennessee, and it doesn’t have to be in the same county where your wedding is taking place.
That said, if you’re getting married in the Smoky Mountains (Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Townsend, Wears Valley, etc.), here are the most convenient offices:
Sevier County Clerk’s Office – Most Popular for Smoky Mountain Weddings
- Address: 125 Court Ave, Suite 202E, Sevierville, TN 37862
- Phone: (865) 453-5502
- Website: Sevier County Marriage License Info »
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on holidays)
There’s also a satellite office in Gatlinburg, specifically designed to help couples get their license quickly:
- Location: 405 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Phone: (865) 430-3404
Blount County (for Townsend weddings)
- Address: 345 Court St, Maryville, TN 37804
- Phone: (865) 273-5800
Knox County (for couples flying into Knoxville)
- Address: 300 W Main St, Knoxville, TN 37902
- Phone: (865) 215-2385
What You Need to Bring
Both parties must appear in person to apply.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
- Social Security Number (you don’t need your card—just the number)
- Payment (cash or card, depending on the county—call ahead to confirm)
- Some counties may ask for proof of age or divorce papers if previously married.
No blood test or waiting period required.
You can prefill your information online to make it even quicker.
How Much Does It Cost?
In most Tennessee counties, the marriage license fee if you live in the state is $101.
BUT—you can reduce that to $41 if you complete a state-approved premarital preparation course (within 1 year of applying for the license). The course must be taught by a registered counselor, pastor, or therapist and last at least 4 hours.
Bring your completion certificate with you to the clerk’s office to receive the discount.
If you live out of state, the fee is $41.
When Should You Get Your Marriage License?
Tennessee marriage licenses are valid for 30 days after they’re issued.
Here’s the sweet spot:
Plan to get your license 1–3 days before your wedding, especially if you’re traveling in from out of town.
There’s no waiting period, so you can even get married the same day—but leave room in your schedule in case there are lines or delays.
What Happens After the Wedding?
Your officiant will sign and complete your marriage license after the ceremony. Then:
- They mail or return it to the county clerk’s office where you got it.
- The county files it with the state.
- You can request certified copies (you’ll need one to change your name or update records).
💡 Be sure to ask your officiant who is responsible for mailing the license!
Can You Apply Online?
Some counties (including Sevier County) allow you to start your application online to save time.
Example: Sevier County Online Pre-Application »
You’ll still need to appear in person to show ID and sign the paperwork, but filling it out ahead of time can make things go faster—especially if you’re arriving just before the wedding.
Quick FAQs
Q: Do I have to be a Tennessee resident?
Nope! Anyone can get married in Tennessee, regardless of where you live.
Q: Do I need witnesses?
No. Tennessee does not require witnesses for your ceremony.
Q: Who can officiate a wedding in Tennessee?
Ordained ministers (including online ordination as of 2025), pastors, priests, rabbis, and judges. Many elopement vendors offer officiant services—or you can bring your own.
Q: Can I get a license on a weekend?
Most county clerk offices are only open Monday through Friday, though some Gatlinburg offices may have limited weekend hours during peak season. Call ahead to confirm!
Eloping in the Smokies? Here’s What to Do Next
If you’re planning a wedding or elopement in the Smoky Mountains, getting your license is just one (important!) step in the journey.
We’ve built this site to help you with:
✅ Finding the perfect venue
✅ Booking trusted local vendors
✅ Learning how to elope in the Smokies
✅ Getting inspiration from real couples
✅ Planning a day that feels relaxed, beautiful, and so you
👉 Explore Venues »
👉 Find Your Vendor Team »
👉 How to Elope in the Smoky Mountains »
TL;DR: Marriage License Checklist
Here’s a quick summary of what you need:
- Both of you in person
- Valid photo IDs
- Social Security Numbers
- Tennessee Residents ~$101 (or ~$41 with premarital course)
- Non-Tennessee Residents ~$41
- Get license within 30 days of the ceremony
- Officiant returns the signed license within 3 days after the ceremony
- Request certified copies for name change or records
