Legal Marriage Age in Montana: 18, or 16 with Consent

In Montana, the legal age to marry without parental consent is **18**. However, **16- and 17-year-olds** may marry with **parental/guardian consent** and judicial approval.

Statutory Framework (MCA § 40-1-201, 40-1-213)

Recent Reforms

• 2019: Raised minimum age from 16 to 16 (with court order); banned under-16 marriage.
• 2023: Failed bill to raise to 18 universally.

Process

1. Apply at Clerk of District Court (county where either party resides).
2. Provide IDs, birth certificates, Social Security numbers.
3. If 16–17: Submit notarized parental consent; schedule court hearing.
4. Judge evaluates maturity, voluntariness, circumstances.
5. License issued; ceremony by authorized officiant.

Context

Montana's rate of minor marriage is low (~20–30/year). Advocates push for 18 floor; opponents cite rural tradition, pregnancy, military deployment.

Know the law: **18 = automatic; 16–17 = court + parents; <16 = no.**