How to Elope in Oregon

Oregon, famous for those early pioneers crossing the country on the Oregon Trail, retains its natural beauty with a range of beaches, mountains and parks that offer excellent elopement locations.
Outline map of Oregon

Planning an Elopement?

Get my step-by-step guide and plan your dream elopement!

Why is Oregon great for an elopement?

Oregon is the perfect location for the adventurous couple to elope to. Oregon’s coastline offers up a range of options, including stunning beaches, lush forests, and earthy rugged cliffs. Those who love nature will feel right at home in Oregon. Silver Falls State Park features South Falls, a 177 foot waterfall that couples can walk behind to capture some truly striking photographs. Or Ecola State Park offers up a variety of woodland trails, overlooks and beaches if you want to get a bit of everything. If you like going up high, Mount Hood is Oregon’s largest mountain and offers hiking trails to the top, or even ski lifts, so you can capture some lovely photos with crisp, white snow and a stunning blue sky.

Oregon’s climate is relatively mild, so a summer wedding shouldn’t be too hot or humid to be uncomfortable. Fall through to early spring can be quite rainy, so it’s worth bearing that in mind if you want to get married outdoors.

GETTING YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE

All states require a marriage license, so you need to ensure that you understand all of the requirements very early in the planning process. Luckily, it’s fairly straightforward in most cases as long as you meet the criteria and follow the state requirements.

Here is what you need to know about getting a marriage license in Oregon.

Is Same Sex Marriage Recognized?

Yes! Same sex marriage is recognized in all states, and at a federal level, under the Respect for Marriage Act which was signed into law in December 2022.

Will I Need to take a blood test?

No. Blood tests have been abolished as part of marriage license applications in all 50 states, so don’t worry if you’re afraid of needles!

Who Issues Marriage Licenses in Oregon?

Marriage licenses in Oregon are issued by the County Clerk’s office.

Do I Need to be a Resident of Oregon?

Both residents and non-residents may apply for a marriage license in Oregon.

Is there a waiting period to get married?

There is a waiting period of 3 days to get married from the date that your license was issued. Some counties will allow leniency on the waiting period for certain causes, and others will allow the payment of an additional fee to waive the waiting period. It is best to check with the County Clerk’s office in advance of your application if you think that the 3 day waiting period will cause a problem.

How long will my marriage license be valid for?

Marriage licenses issued in Oregon are valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE TO GET MARRIED IN Oregon?

To marry with no further caveats, you must be 18 years or older. Those aged 17 may apply for a marriage license with the written consent of their parent or guardian.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE ID?

Valid photo ID is required at your marriage license appointment. Valid documents include: a passport, driver’s license or state ID.

HOW MUCH DOES A MARRIAGE LICENSE COST IN Oregon?

There is a fee of $60 for marriage licenses in Oregon.

On Your Wedding Day

Once you’ve gotten the admin out of the way, you can get to the part you’ve been dreaming of: the wedding ceremony!

As you’d expect, each state has different requirements to make a marriage legal. Make sure you follow the guide below to get your marriage legally recognized.

Will i need witnesses to the marriage?

Oregon requires two witnesses to a marriage.

DOES Oregon REQUIRE AN OFFICIANT FOR A WEDDING?

An officiant will be required to solemnize a marriage in Oregon. Eligible individuals include: an Oregon judicial officer, county clerk, or a clergyman of any religious organization.

Those ordained by an online ministry are able to perform marriage ceremonies in Oregon.

SUMMARY

So that’s it, everything you need to know about eloping in Oregon. And if you think that it could be the place to host your special day, why not give me a call to chat about your wedding? I’m an experienced elopement photographer, and an ordained minister, so in most cases I can be your officiant too!

Planning an Elopement?

Get my step-by-step guide and plan your dream elopement!

SHARE THE LOVE:

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
WhatsApp

Thank you for requesting the Planning The Perfect Elopement Guide!

A Cover of Rachel Sue Bohem's Guide to Planning the Perfect Elopement

The Guide has been emailed to you!

If you cannot see my email in your inbox, please check the spam / promotions folders and move it into your inbox or mark as "not spam."