Marriage records in Shelby County, Tennessee, are available through several channels. ShelbyCourt.us allows you to quickly find publicly available information about marriage records in the county. Additionally, the County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains the corresponding records. You can also visit the clerk's office in person, send a request by mail, or use the county's online services to obtain copies of documents.
Shelby Marriage Records Search
In the state of Tennessee, marriage licenses are issued by the Shelby County Clerk. This office is the primary custodian of marriage records at the county level. The collection includes issued marriage licenses, submitted marriage certificates, as well as historical records that date back decades. Once the ceremony is conducted, the officiant returns the completed license to the clerk's office, where it is registered and becomes part of the county's public records.
The County Clerk's office also provides online services, including applying for a marriage license over the internet. To search for other public records of the county, you can use the appropriate portal on the official website.
Certified Marriage Record Copies and Fees in Shelby
The fees for copies of marriage records in Tennessee are determined by state law (T.C.A. § 36-6-103 and related provisions). Below is an approximate fee schedule charged by the Shelby County Clerk's office. Please verify the current amounts directly with the clerk's office, as fees may change.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Certified copy | Contact the clerk's office for details |
| Additional copy (in the same order) | Contact the clerk's office for details |
| Search fee | May be charged separately |
At the state level, certified copies of marriage certificates can also be ordered through the Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records. The standard processing time for mail requests is usually several weeks. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee through state-authorized third-party providers.
Order Marriage Certificates Online or In Person in Shelby
There are several ways to obtain a copy of a marriage certificate registered in Shelby County.
Online
The County Clerk's office offers online services, including applying for a marriage license. To order a certified copy of a marriage certificate at the state level, you can also contact the Tennessee Department of Health through their online portal at tn.gov/health — Vital Records.
In Person
Visit the County Clerk's office in Memphis directly:
Walk-ins are usually possible during business hours. Bring a valid photo ID. Payment is accepted on-site.
By Mail
To order a copy by mail, send to the clerk's office:
- A completed request form (if available) or a written letter stating the full names of the spouses and the approximate date of marriage.
- A copy of your photo ID.
- Payment in the form of a money order or cashier's check made payable to Shelby County Clerk.
- A self-addressed stamped envelope.
For obtaining copies of other public records, including divorce documents, separate procedures apply. If you are unsure which court or office holds the record you need, call the clerk's office for clarification. Additional reference information regarding county records can also be found on ShelbyCourt.us.