MO Minimum Marriage Age

Governor Mike Parson recently signed legislation to modify age requirements for marriage licenses in Missouri that took effect on August 28.

Senate Bill 655, which was passed by the Missouri Legislature and signed into law, prohibits marriage licenses from being issued if either party is under 16 years of age.  Additionally, the legislation bars the marriage of individuals 21 or older to anyone under age 18.  Parental consent will still be required for minors to marry someone under age 21. 


All marriage license applicants will be required to provide proof of age to the Recorder of Deeds through a certified copy of their birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued identification.  The Recorder will document this proof of age. 


Recorders of Deeds are committed to preserving records, including marriage licenses, with the utmost care and consistency.  The duty to fulfill all legal requirements for documents is paramount.  As with any statutory change, Recorders' offices will modify their policies in order to implement the marriage age law.