A marriage license is necessary to effectuate a legal marriage. MCL 551.2. “A marriage license issued is void unless a marriage is solemnized under the license within 33 days after the application.” MCL 551.103a.
Misdemeanor. Performing a wedding ceremony when the parties do not have a valid marriage license is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $100 or 90 days in jail. MCL 551.106.
If either party is a resident of Michigan, the resident must obtain a license from the county clerk of the county in which he or she resides. MCL 551.101.
Nonresidents of Michigan must apply for their marriage license in the county in which the marriage ceremony is to be performed. MCL 551.101.