So, you’re ready to elope in Idaho. Hell yes! Whether you’re dreaming of a misty mountaintop moment, a quiet forest ceremony, or something that screams just us, no bullshit, you’re in the right place. But before you start planning your “fuck tradition, let’s do this our way” wedding, let’s talk about the rules for elopement in Idaho—because yes, there are a few. Don’t worry, I’ve got you.

Table of Contents

1. Marriage License: The Golden Ticket to Making It Legal
2. Do You Need an Officiant? Or Can You Just Wing It?
3. Witnesses: The Bare Minimum for Legalities
4. Permits: Don’t Get Fined for Your Own Wedding
5. Why I’m the Photographer (and Chaos Coordinator) for You
6. TL;DR: The Quick + Dirty Version

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Marriage License: The Golden Ticket to Making It Legal

Look, I get it. The last thing you want to think about when planning an elopement is paperwork, but this is the one piece of bureaucracy you can’t skip. These are probably the most important rules for an elopement in Idaho. Here’s the lowdown:

• You need to get your marriage license from any county recorder’s office in Idaho.
• There’s no waiting period (thank you, Idaho, for at least getting this right). You can elope the same day you get your license if you want.
• Both of you need to be there in person with valid ID (driver’s license, passport, a Costco membership won’t cut it).
• It costs about $30 to $60, depending on the county. Bring cash because some counties are still living in the dark ages and don’t take cards.
• If you or your partner are under 18, there are extra steps involving parental consent. (We listen and don’t judge…but also, if you’re eloping at 16, maybe take a second and think about that.)

Find your county’s recorder office here.

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Do You Need an Officiant? Or Can You Just Wing It?

Idaho isn’t one of those cool places where you can marry yourselves (looking at you, Colorado). You need an officiant. But don’t stress—I’ve got an in-house one for you. My husband, Nate, is a licensed officiant (and a Dudeist Priest, because why the fuck not?). He can do a heartfelt, gooey ceremony or just sign the paperwork while you make out in the mountains. Your call.

Want to bring your own officiant? Totally fine. Just make sure they’re ordained or licensed in Idaho. Universal Life Church is a great option if you want a friend to do the honors.

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Witnesses: The Bare Minimum for Legalities

Idaho requires one witness to make your marriage legit. If you’re eloping solo, don’t panic—your officiant counts as your one witness. If you’re bringing a couple of close friends or family members, they can be your witness to if you’d like.

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Permits: Don’t Get Fined for Your Own Wedding

If you’re eloping in a national park, state park, or certain wilderness areas, you might need a permit.

• Sawtooth National Forest: Some areas likely yes, especially for large setups.
• Shoshone Falls: Requires a special event permit.
• City parks (like Boise’s Kathryn Albertson Park): Some require a permit, some don’t—best to check with the city.

Each location has its own rules, and fines are a buzzkill, so let’s make sure your elopement doesn’t come with a surprise ticket. Check here for Idaho state park permits. Don’t worry though, that’s why I’m here to help you figure out if you need a permit or not.

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Why I’m the Photographer (and Chaos Coordinator) for You

Look, eloping is supposed to be fun, stress-free, and about you. But the legal shit? It’s a lot. That’s where I come in.

I don’t just take pretty pictures—I help you navigate all the rules for elopement in Idaho so you don’t have to stress about:

✅ Making sure your paperwork is done right
✅ Knowing which locations need permits
✅ Finding an officiant (hey, Nate!)
✅ Making sure you have a witness (again, me!)
✅ Helping plan the perfect timeline so you get the best light, best views, and best fucking experience possible

Plus, I get that not everyone fits the cookie-cutter wedding mold. I work with alternative couples, queer couples, the awkward, the weird, the wild—basically, the ones who just want to feel like themselves on their wedding day. Sound like you? Let’s make this happen.

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TL;DR: The Quick + Dirty Version

• Marriage License: Pick it up from any Idaho county recorder’s office. No waiting period.
• Officiant: Required (but hey, I know a guy).
• Witness: You need one. I can be it.
• Permits: Depends on your location—let’s check before we get fined.
• Stress level: Zero, if you book me. Hit me up here.

So, are you ready to say “fuck the big wedding” and elope in Idaho? Because I’m ready to help you do it—without the stress, without the bullshit, and with a shitload of fun.

Reach out and let’s plan your day.