• Full Names - before and after marriage
• Addresses - before and after marriage
• Age
• Valid photo I.D. or copy of valid I.D.
• Counties of residence
• Date of Birth
• Place of Birth
• Social Security Numbers
• If previously married, we need the date the last marriage was terminated, county, and state.  If by divorce, we also need the court location.
• Application fee is $115 without Premarital Education or $40 with the completed and signed Statement of Premarital Education on Educator's letterhead, be notarized or include church seal.  Fee must be paid by cash or check at the time of application. 

You may view a sample of the marriage application by clicking on the marriage application link. This is a SAMPLE only. It shows you the required information needed when you come to apply. Marriage Application Sample

In the state of Minnesota there is a five day waiting period after you apply for the license before the marriage can take place.  The license may be used anywhere in Minnesota. The license must be used within six months or it becomes voided.

Checks are to be made payable to the Watonwan County Recorder.  We do not accept credit or debit cards.  Applications are NOT accepted via telephone or internet.

Marriage Records & Marriage Certificates

Marriage Records

The Watonwan County Recorder has marriage records dating from 1867 to the present for those who applied for their marriage license in Watonwan County only.

Marriage records are open to the public for searching.

Requesting a certified copy of a Marriage Certificate

A certified copy of a marriage certificate is $9.00.  You may request a copy of a marriage certificate in person or by mail.

1. Provide the names of the bride and groom and the date of marriage.

2. Present or mail the information along with your check or money order to:

      Watonwan County Recorder

      710 2nd Ave S.

      PO Box 518

     St. James, MN 56081