Frequently Asked Questions about Marriage Equality in Tennessee

The ability of same-sex couples to wed in Tennessee, or to have their valid out-of-state marriage recognized, will be determined by the pending U.S. Supreme Court decision in

Obergefell v. Hodges . In anticipation of a positive decision upholding marriage equality and acknowledging the right of all loving couples to marry, we have prepared the following information on what this decision will mean for Tennessee residents and the basic requirements for getting married in Tennessee.

• Where can I get a marriage license?
• Do I have to get license from the county clerk in my county of residence to get married?
• What identification and information will be necessary to get the marriage license?
• Do both people who wish to get married have to appear in the county clerk’s office to obtain the license?
• How long is the marriage license valid?
• Once the marriage licenses is obtained, how soon can the marriage be performed?
• What are the age requirements to get married?
• Do we need to get blood tests or a medical exam before getting our license?
• Are we required to get premarital counseling before getting our license?
• How much does a marriage license cost?
• Who can officiate a marriage ceremony?
• Do we need a witness for the ceremony?
• Do we need to follow a particular format for the ceremony or have our officiant use specific words or phrases?
• Can I get married at the county clerk’s office?

• Now that the Court ruled in favor of marriage equality, how soon will same-sex couples be able to apply for a marriage license?
• What should we do if the county clerk denies me a marriage license?
• What if the marriage license form still says “male applicant” and “female applicant” for the two people getting married?
• We are Tennessee residents, but we married in another state before the Supreme Court’s decision. Do we need to remarry in Tennessee?
• Will a Tennessee marriage be recognized by other states?
• Can I be discriminated against at my place of employment for being married to someone of the same sex?
• Does my employer have to offer spousal health insurance coverage and other employment benefits for same-sex spouses?
• I am now married. How can I change my surname on my driver’s license and other state documents?