Search Livingston County Marriage Records
Livingston County marriage records are kept at the Recorder of Deeds office in Chillicothe, the county seat. This north-central Missouri county has marriage filings going back to the 1830s. The Recorder issues licenses, stores completed filings, and provides copies to the public. Whether you want to look up a past marriage record, get a certified copy, or apply for a new marriage license, the Recorder in Chillicothe handles all of it. You can search by name or date. The office takes walk-ins, phone calls, and mail requests for Livingston County marriage records.
Livingston County Quick Facts
Livingston County Recorder of Deeds
The Livingston County Recorder of Deeds is the official custodian of all marriage records in the county. The office is in the Livingston County Courthouse in Chillicothe. Staff issue marriage licenses, store them after weddings, and handle copy requests for the public. Walk-ins are welcome during normal hours. For older records, calling ahead helps so the staff can have files ready when you arrive.
The Livingston County Recorder page has contact info and details about the office. Marriage licenses follow Missouri law under RSMo Chapter 451. Both people must appear together with valid photo ID and a Social Security number. No blood test. No waiting period. The license is good for 30 days and works anywhere in Missouri.
The Livingston County Recorder of Deeds website is shown below. This is where residents can find office hours, fees, and requirements for marriage license services.
The website has all the basics you need before making a trip to the office.
| Office | Livingston County Recorder of Deeds |
|---|---|
| Address | 700 Webster Street Chillicothe, MO 64601 |
| Phone | (660) 646-8000 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Website | livingstoncountymo.gov |
How to Search Livingston County Marriage Records
To find a marriage record in Livingston County, visit the Recorder's office in Chillicothe. Bring the name of at least one spouse and the rough date of the marriage. Staff will search the index and pull the file. Certified copies cost about $9. Plain copies are around $1 per page. You can get copies made right at the office.
The Livingston County government website is shown below, which provides general information about county services and departments including the Recorder of Deeds.
Check the website for any online search options that may be available.
Mail requests are another option. Send a letter to the Recorder with the names, date of marriage, and a check or money order for the copy fee. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Response times can take a few weeks. If you need a record quickly, go in person or call. The Missouri Bureau of Vital Records has a state-level index from July 1948 forward that can confirm which county holds a specific record.
Getting a License in Livingston County
Both people who want to marry must go to the Recorder's office in Chillicothe together. Bring a valid photo ID and your Social Security number. Missouri does not need a blood test. There is no waiting period either. You fill out the forms, pay, and get the license that day.
The fee is about $51 in Livingston County. Cash is typically the safest payment method, but check with the office about other options. The license stays good for 30 days and can be used in any county across Missouri. After the wedding, the officiant sends the signed license back to the Livingston County Recorder within 15 days per RSMo 451.130. If either person was married before, bring the month and year that prior marriage ended. Both people must be at least 18 years old as of August 28, 2025.
Note: Chillicothe is sometimes called the "Home of Sliced Bread." It is also the only place in Livingston County to get a marriage license.
Livingston County Marriage Certificates
The Recorder keeps the original marriage certificate on file. A certified copy from Livingston County has all the details and costs about $9. This is the document you need for name changes, proof of marriage, and legal filings.
The Missouri Bureau of Vital Records only has an index from July 1, 1948. They issue a Certified Statement that just lists names, date, and county. For the full Livingston County certificate, contact the county Recorder. State statements can be ordered by mail, in person in Jefferson City, or through VitalChek. Under RSMo 193.255, certified copies are only available to people with a direct and tangible interest in the record.
Historical Livingston County Marriage Records
Livingston County was organized in 1837. Marriage records have been filed since that time. The Recorder in Chillicothe has the oldest files. Records from the 1800s may need extra time to locate.
The Missouri State Archives holds microfilm of Livingston County marriage records. Their database lets you browse by county and record type. FamilySearch also has copies at their research centers for free use. These resources combined with the Recorder's office give you good coverage for Livingston County historical marriage research.
Public Access to Livingston County Records
Marriage records are public in Missouri under the Missouri Sunshine Law, Chapter 610 RSMo. Anyone can view Livingston County marriage records. You do not need to be named on the record. Certified copies are restricted to those with a direct interest under RSMo 193.255. Plain copies and viewing are open to everyone.
The Missouri Recorders Association has a directory of all 114 county Recorders. Use it to find the right office if a record was filed in a neighboring county instead of Livingston County.
Nearby Counties
These counties border Livingston County in north-central Missouri. Check which county holds the marriage record you need before making a request.