If you're dreaming of a spontaneous Las Vegas elopement, you're not alone! Vegas is one of the most popular places in the world to tie the knot—quickly, affordably, and with as much (or as little) fanfare as you like.
But before you grab your partner and head for the Strip, you may be wondering:
Do you need a witness or officiant to get eloped in Las Vegas?
Here’s what you really need to know to make it legal.
💍 Do You Need an Officiant to Get Married in Las Vegas?
Yes—to have a legal wedding in Las Vegas, you must be married by a licensed officiant recognized by the state of Nevada.
That means you can’t just say vows on your own at a scenic overlook and call it a day (unless you’re doing a symbolic or vow renewal ceremony). The officiant must be licensed in Clark County and must file your marriage certificate with the county clerk after the ceremony.
Most Las Vegas wedding chapels provide an officiant as part of their packages. If you're planning a DIY elopement or outdoor ceremony, you'll need to hire a licensed officiant separately.
Yes—but don’t stress. Nevada law requires one witness to be present at your wedding ceremony. The witness must be over 18 years old.
If you’re getting married in a Las Vegas wedding chapel, they’ll usually provide a witness for free (or for a small tip) if you don’t have anyone with you. If you're doing an outdoor elopement or private ceremony, your photographer can often act as the witness.
👉 Bonus: As a professional Las Vegas elopement photographer, I’ve happily served as a witness for couples during their ceremonies—while capturing the whole thing with beautiful photos, of course.
✅ What You Need to Elope Legally in Las Vegas
Here’s your quick checklist for a legal Vegas elopement:
- 💌 Marriage license from the Clark County Marriage License Bureau (no appointment needed, no waiting period!)
- 🧍♀️🧍♂️ You and your partner must both be at least 18
- 🙋♂️ One witness (can be your photographer or someone provided by the venue)
- 📜 Licensed officiant to perform the ceremony
- 🖊 The officiant files your marriage certificate with the county
And that’s it! No blood tests, no residency requirements, no long waits.
🌵 Planning an Elopement in Las Vegas?
Whether you’re getting married at a Las Vegas chapel, out in Red Rock Canyon, on Fremont Street, or in a desert overlook at golden hour, I’m here to help document your day with timeless, candid, and posed photos that feel uniquely you.
📸 Falling Rocks Photography specializes in Las Vegas elopements—helping couples navigate the process, scout the best photo spots, and walk away with unforgettable images. I also include a free elopement guide with my packages to help you with all the legal details and timeline planning.
Let’s make your Vegas wedding as fun, relaxed, and beautiful as you imagined.