What this solves
A Las Vegas wedding can be a $99 drive-thru with a plastic ring from the gas station or a $5,000+ chapel ceremony with roses, photos, and an Elvis. Both are valid. The problem is that most chapel websites lead with their cheapest package and only show you the add-on costs once you've already paid the deposit. This picker walks you through the actual decision tree — budget first, ceremony style second, photo package third, group size last — then matches you to the chapels that fit that tier.
NV marriage license is $77, valid for 1 year, no waiting period, no blood test. Bring the license to the chapel — most handle the paperwork for you. Bring IDs (passports for internationals).
The decision picker
Your inputs
Your chapel tier
Matching chapels
How to read the result
- Tier is based on your budget after subtracting $77 for the marriage license (Clark County Clerk, valid 1 year).
- Ceremony style drives venue, not just ambiance. Drive-thru chapels are a different physical setup from a traditional chapel with an aisle.
- Photography is where the upcharge hides. A "chapel $400" often becomes $900 once you add 50 photos + an 8×10. Pick the photo tier first.
- Guest count above 12 disqualifies most basic chapels — only mid-tier and above hold that. Some chapels charge $25–$50 per extra guest.
- Matching chapels are real 2026 operations, not a comprehensive list. Always confirm package contents at the chapel directly before booking.
Limitations
- Chapel pricing fluctuates daily and is rarely published in full. "From $99" usually means drive-thru only — add $200+ for the chapel ceremony with any extras.
- Officiant choice (Elvis, impersonator, minister, judge) is often a separate line item. Some chapels include one Elvis song; others charge $75–$150 per song.
- Witnesses: Clark County requires 1 witness if no guests attend. Most chapels provide a staff witness for free or $20.
- This tool does not book or reserve. Marriage licenses must be obtained in person at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau (201 E. Clark Ave.) — open 8am–midnight daily, no appointment needed.
- International couples: passports required, no translation needed for the ceremony, but apostille processing for home-country registration adds $50–$300 and 2–8 weeks.
FAQ
How much is a Vegas wedding really?
Drive-thru $99–$150. Basic chapel with photos $400–$800. Mid-tier with officiant, photographer, flowers, video $1,500–$2,500. Premium destination-style $3,000–$5,000+. The license ($77) is separate. Tipping the officiant ($50–$100) is expected.
Can I get married the same day I land?
Yes. No waiting period in Nevada. Get the license ($77, cash or card at the Clark County Clerk), then walk to any chapel. Total time from landing to married: 2–4 hours if you know which chapel.
Do I need a blood test?
No. Nevada dropped the blood-test requirement in 2015. Just bring valid photo ID (passport for internationals). Both partners must appear in person at the Clerk's office.
Is the marriage license recognized everywhere?
Yes — a Nevada marriage license is a US state-issued civil document, recognized in all 50 states and most countries. Some countries require an apostille ($50 + processing) for home-country registration.
Sources
- Clark County Marriage License Bureau — $77 fee, 1-year validity, no waiting period (NV Revised Statutes 122.040, 2026)
- Little White Chapel, Graceland Wedding Chapel, A Special Memory Wedding Chapel, Vegas Weddings, Cupid's Chapel of Love — official package pricing, January 2026
- Nevada Marriage License requirements — NV Secretary of State, 2026