What States Allow Instant Marriages? A Complete Guide for Couples Who Want to Get Married Today

Are you wondering if it’s possible to get married immediately without waiting? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of couples across the United States ask the same question: “What states allow instant marriages?” Whether you’re in a hurry due to military deployment, immigration deadlines, personal circumstances, or just the thrill of spontaneous love, finding a state that allows same-day marriage without a waiting period is key.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about instant marriage laws, which states allow same-day marriages, and how Get Married Today can help you get married quickly, legally, and with all the required documentation—often in just one visit.

Table of Contents

1. What Is an Instant Marriage?
2. Why Do Some States Have a Waiting Period?
3. States That Allow Instant Marriages
4. States With a Waiting Period (And How to Skip It)
5. How Get Married Today Helps With Instant Marriages in California
6. Top Benefits of Same-Day Marriages
7. Instant Marriage for Military Couples
8. Immigration Benefits of Same-Day Marriage
9. Common Questions About Instant Marriages
10. Conclusion: Where Can You Get Married Instantly?

What Is an Instant Marriage?

An instant marriage is a legal union that occurs on the same day a couple obtains their marriage license. This means there is:

• No waiting period
• No mandatory blood test
• No court delays

In some states, couples can walk into a local office or authorized agency, get their license, and immediately have a legal marriage ceremony—often within an hour.

At Get Married Today, we take it a step further by providing the license and ceremony all in one place—anytime, anywhere, including weekends and holidays.

Why Do Some States Have a Waiting Period?

States with mandatory waiting periods often intend to:

• Prevent impulsive decisions
• Allow time for marriage counseling
• Verify documents and eligibility

These waiting periods can range from 24 hours to 6 days. While well-intentioned, they pose a barrier for couples who need to marry quickly due to:

• Travel constraints
• Military deployment
• Immigration deadlines
• Medical emergencies
• Personal preference for spontaneity

Luckily, several states have eliminated waiting periods altogether, allowing you to get married instantly.

States That Allow Instant Marriages

Below are the states where you can get married the same day you receive your marriage license, assuming you meet all legal requirements and have valid identification.

✅ 1. California

• Waiting Period: None
• License Issuance: Same-day
• Officiants Available: Yes (including at Get Married Today)

California is one of the most flexible states for instant marriages. With no waiting period, no blood test, and confidential license options, it’s ideal for couples looking for privacy and speed. Get Married Today specializes in issuing marriage licenses and conducting ceremonies on the same day, all across Southern California.

✅ 2. Nevada

• Waiting Period: None
• License Issuance: Same-day in Las Vegas and other counties

Las Vegas is legendary for its quickie weddings. Nevada law allows same-day license issuance and instant ceremonies. It’s a hotspot for couples who want a fast, fun wedding without red tape.

✅ 3. Colorado

• Waiting Period: None
• Self-Solemnization Allowed: Yes

Colorado not only allows same-day marriages, but it also lets couples marry themselves—no officiant required. That makes it one of the most progressive states for instant, self-directed unions.

✅ 4. Idaho

• Waiting Period: None
• License Issuance: Same-day with ID and payment

Idaho permits same-day marriages without delays. As long as you bring valid ID and pay the fee, you’re ready to tie the knot.

✅ 5. Texas

• Waiting Period: 72 hours BUT exemptions exist:
  • Military
  • Judges can waive it

So while Texas technically has a waiting period, many couples—especially those in the military—can have it waived and marry immediately.

✅ 6. Utah

• Waiting Period: None
• Online License Application: Available

Utah has become increasingly popular due to its fast, online-friendly process. You can get a license online and be married the same day.

✅ 7. Wisconsin

• Waiting Period: None with court waiver

You can apply for a waiver through the court to skip the waiting period in Wisconsin. Local clerks can help you process it quickly.

✅ 8. Alabama

• Waiting Period: None
• No Ceremony Required

Alabama doesn’t require a wedding ceremony at all. You file a notarized marriage certificate and it becomes legal—no officiant, no wait.

✅ 9. Georgia

• Waiting Period: None

As long as you have your documents, Georgia allows same-day license issuance and marriage.

States With a Waiting Period (And How to Skip It)

Some states impose a waiting period after issuing the marriage license, but they often have waiver options available. Here’s how:

Check your local county website for exact procedures, or contact Get Married Today for help navigating the process.

How Get Married Today Helps With Instant Marriages in California

We specialize in instant, same-day marriage services throughout Southern California, including:

• Marriage license issuance
• Wedding ceremony officiation
• Legal filing with the county
• Optional apostille for international use

You can get married today in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, and more—without setting foot in a courthouse.

We Serve:

• Military couples
• Immigrant couples
• Eloping couples
• Emergency medical unions
• LGBTQ+ couples
• International couples needing apostille

Appointments available 24/7, even on holidays.

👉 Book Now at GetMarried.Today

Top Benefits of Same-Day Marriages

Instant marriage services offer speed, convenience, and flexibility, including:

• Skip courthouse delays
• Avoid paperwork confusion
• Marry on weekends or holidays
• Choose your dream location
• Get legally married in 1 hour

At Get Married Today, we handle everything for you, including:

• Government paperwork
• Proof of marriage
• Official filing
• License pickup
• Marriage certificate delivery
• Optional apostille services

Instant Marriage for Military Couples

If you or your partner are in the military, time is often limited. Instant marriage allows:

• Immediate access to military spousal benefits
• Enrollment in housing
• Inclusion on insurance and base privileges
• Emergency leave benefits

Get Married Today offers military discounts and expedited service near Camp Pendleton, San Diego Naval Base, Fort Irwin, and more.

Immigration Benefits of Same-Day Marriage

Marriage is a vital legal step for many couples applying for:

• Green cards through spousal sponsorship
• Adjustment of status (Form I-485)
• K-1 visa conversion to CR1
• Family-based petitions (I-130)

Instant marriage provides immediate access to legal documentation such as:

• Marriage certificate
• Proof of legal marriage for USCIS
• Apostilled documents for international filing

Common Questions About Instant Marriages

Q: Can I get married the same day I get my license?

A: Yes, in states like California, Nevada, Colorado, and Georgia—no waiting period is required.

Q: Do both partners need to be present?

A: Yes, in most cases. Both must show valid government-issued ID and sign the application.

Q: Can you get married instantly online?

A: Some states like Utah offer remote marriage services, but most require at least an in-person license.

Q: What documents do I need?

• Valid government-issued ID
• Divorce decree if previously married
• Payment for license (varies by county)

Get Married Today handles documentation and submission for you.

Q: Can I get married at night or on the weekend?

A: Yes! Our team is available 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

Conclusion: Where Can You Get Married Instantly?

Here’s a final look at states that allow instant marriages:

• California
• Nevada
• Colorado
• Idaho
• Utah
• Georgia
• Alabama
• Texas (with waiver)
• Wisconsin (with waiver)

Whether you’re planning a quick elopement, an immigration wedding, or a spontaneous celebration of love, instant marriage is legal and possible in several states—especially with help from Get Married Today.

Ready to Get Married Today?

We offer:

✅ Same-day marriage licenses
✅ Legal wedding ceremonies
✅ Optional apostille service
✅ Mobile weddings anywhere you choose
✅ 24/7 availability — including holidays
✅ Military and immigration support

📍 Serving all of Southern California
🌐 Visit us at GetMarried.Today
📞 Call us anytime for emergency service

Let us help you make your love official—today.