Dreaming of saying “I do” among the red rocks of Sedona? Arizona is one of the most stunning and welcoming states for couples who want to elope. Whether you’re planning an intimate desert ceremony at Cathedral Rock or exchanging vows under the stars at Merry-Go-Round Rock, understanding the legal process is an essential step. As a Sedona elopement photographer, I not only help couples capture their day but also guide them through what it takes to make their marriage official in Arizona.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about legally eloping in Arizona—so you can focus on the adventure while making sure the paperwork is stress-free.
Two ways to go about legally eloping
First Option: If you are flying in from out-of-state you can obtain your marriage license in your home state!
Second Option: Obtain everything in Arizona.
Step 1: Apply for Your Arizona Marriage License
The first step in legally eloping in Arizona is obtaining your marriage license.
- Where to apply: At any Arizona County Clerk of the Superior Court office. If you’re eloping in Sedona, the closest office is in Cottonwood (Yavapai County) or Camp Verde.
- No residency requirement: You don’t have to live in Arizona to get married here, which makes it perfect for destination elopements.
- What to bring: Valid government-issued photo ID for both partners.
- Cost: The marriage license fee is $83 (as of 2025).
Pro Tip:
There’s no waiting period in Arizona, which means you can get your license and elope the same day!
Step 2: Understand Officiant Requirements
To make your Arizona elopement legal, you’ll need an officiant. Arizona accepts:
To make your Arizona elopement legal, you’ll need an officiant. Arizona accepts:
- Ordained ministers or priests
- Judges, magistrates, or justices of the peace
- Online-ordained officiants (yes, a friend or family member can do it as long as they’re legally ordained)
If you’re dreaming of a self-solemnized ceremony like in Colorado—Arizona doesn’t allow that. An officiant is required.
Step 3: Bring Witnesses
Arizona requires two witnesses over the age of 18 to sign your marriage license. Don’t have guests joining your elopement? Don’t worry—many Sedona elopement vendors (including photographers like myself) are happy to step in as witnesses.
Step 4: After the Ceremony
Once you’ve exchanged vows, your officiant and witnesses will sign the marriage license. From there:
- The officiant files your paperwork with the county clerk.
- You’ll receive your certified marriage certificate by mail (usually within a few weeks).
Option 2: Get Legally Married in Your Home State, Then Elope in Arizona
Not every couple wants to deal with the logistics of paperwork while traveling. Another beautiful (and very common) option is to take care of the legalities in your home state first and treat your Sedona elopement as your symbolic ceremony.
Why Couples Choose This Route:
- Simplicity: No need to schedule time for county clerk visits while traveling.
- Flexibility: Your ceremony in Arizona can be fully customized without worrying about legal requirements.
- Privacy: You can make your elopement feel more intimate by keeping the legal part separate.
- Travel ease: If you’re coming from out of state or out of the country, it can be easier to handle everything at home.
Many couples choose to sign their marriage license back home a few days before flying out, then exchange vows in Sedona with full intention and celebration—knowing the legal paperwork is already complete.
Extra Things to Know
Expiration: Your Arizona marriage license is valid for 12 months, so you don’t have to rush your ceremony.
Name change: If one or both of you are changing your last name, your certified marriage certificate will be the document you’ll use.
Public lands & permits: Planning to elope in Sedona’s most iconic locations? Some areas, like Red Rock Crossing or Crescent Moon Ranch, may require a permit. Always check in advance so you’re covered.
Why Arizona Is Perfect for Elopements
Beyond the easy marriage process, couples are drawn to Arizona for:
Beyond the easy marriage process, couples are drawn to Arizona for:
- Iconic red rock backdrops like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Merry-Go-Round Rock.
- Year-round beauty with warm light, golden sunsets, and clear starry skies.
- Adventure: Jeep rides, hiking, stargazing, and champagne toasts with unforgettable views.
As a Sedona elopement photographer, I help couples navigate the legal details, permits, and timelines so they can relax and focus on what matters most—each other.
Final Thoughts
Whether you decide to handle the legal paperwork in Arizona or back home, your Sedona elopement will be every bit as meaningful. Some couples love making it official in Sedona, while others prefer a stress-free symbolic ceremony in the desert after taking care of the legalities beforehand.
Either way—you’ll walk away with breathtaking photos, unforgettable memories, and a love story rooted in the wild beauty of Arizona.
