Access Washington County Marriage Records
Washington County marriage records are filed at the Recorder of Deeds office in Potosi. The Recorder manages marriage license applications, record searches, and certified copy requests for the county. Marriage license applications are accepted from 8 AM to 4 PM on weekdays. The fee covers the license plus a certified copy and a marriage card. If you need to search for an old record or get copies of a certificate, the staff in Potosi can assist with Washington County marriage records.
Washington County Quick Facts
Washington County Recorder of Deeds
Jamie Miner is the Washington County Recorder of Deeds. The office is at 102 North Missouri Street in Potosi. You can reach them at (573) 438-6111 to ask about records, check office hours, or find out what documents you need to bring. Marriage license applications are taken from 8 AM to 4 PM Monday through Friday.
The Washington County Recorder website has information about the office, fees, and services. The screenshots below show the Recorder's online presence where you can find details about marriage records and how to apply for a license.
The Recorder's site is a good starting point for basic information about fees and requirements. You will still need to visit in person for a marriage license or to pick up certified copies.
The second page on the Recorder's site shows additional details about documents and services available at the Potosi office.
| Office | Washington County Recorder of Deeds |
|---|---|
| Recorder | Jamie Miner |
| Address | 102 N Missouri Street Potosi, MO 63664 |
| Phone | (573) 438-6111 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Website | washcomorecorder.com |
Marriage Licenses in Washington County
Both people must appear together at the Recorder's office in Potosi. Bring a valid photo ID and your Social Security number. If either person was married before, know the month and year that marriage ended. Missouri does not require a blood test or a waiting period. You apply, pay, and leave with the license the same day.
The fee for a marriage license in Washington County is $61. That includes a certified copy of the marriage certificate and a marriage card. The office does not accept checks. Bring cash or call ahead to ask about other payment options. Under RSMo 451.090, the license is valid for 30 days and can be used anywhere in Missouri.
After the ceremony, the officiant must file the signed license with the Washington County Recorder within 15 days per RSMo 451.130. Once that happens, the marriage is permanently on record. Missouri law now requires both parties to be at least 18 years old, effective August 28, 2025.
How to Search Washington County Marriage Records
To search for marriage records in Washington County, visit or call the Recorder in Potosi. Give the staff the name of at least one spouse and the rough date of the marriage. They will search the index and pull the file. Plain copies cost a few dollars per page. Certified copies of a marriage certificate are about $9 each beyond what is included with the license fee.
You can also request records by mail. Send a letter to the Washington County Recorder at 102 N Missouri Street, Potosi, MO 63664. Include the names, date, and payment for the copy fee. Add a stamped return envelope. Mail requests usually take a couple of weeks. Washington County does not have an online search portal for marriage records at this time.
Washington County Marriage Certificates
The Recorder in Potosi has the original certificates on file. A certified copy from Washington County shows both names, the date, location, officiant, and witnesses. Your $61 license fee includes one certified copy and a marriage card. Extra certified copies cost about $9 each.
The Missouri Bureau of Vital Records in Jefferson City can issue a Certified Statement Relating to Marriage for records from July 1, 1948 onward. That statement only has names, date, and county. For the full certificate, go to the Washington County Recorder. You can order the state statement by mail, in person, or through VitalChek online. Under RSMo 193.255, certified copies require a direct and tangible interest in the record.
Historical Records in Washington County
Washington County was established in 1813, making it one of the oldest counties in Missouri. Marriage records from the county's early years may be available through the Recorder in Potosi. The oldest files can take extra time to locate, so let the staff know ahead of time what you are looking for.
The Missouri State Archives holds microfilm copies of many Washington County records. You can browse the County and Municipal Records Database online. Not all records are scanned yet, but the collection keeps growing. FamilySearch also has free microfilm copies at any FamilySearch center. Between the county, the State Archives, and FamilySearch, researchers have three good options for tracking down old Washington County marriage records.
Public Access to Washington County Records
Marriage records are public in Missouri. The Missouri Sunshine Law under Chapter 610 RSMo guarantees open access. Anyone can request to see a marriage license or certificate in Washington County. You do not have to be named on the record.
Certified copies are restricted under RSMo 193.255 to people with a direct and tangible interest. Plain copies and viewing are open to all. The Missouri Recorders Association has a full directory of all 114 county offices in the state.
Note: Washington County does not accept checks for marriage license fees.
Nearby Counties
These counties border Washington County in east-central Missouri. If you need a marriage record from a nearby county, contact their Recorder of Deeds directly.