Government Licensing

The Government Licensing section issues various licenses to residents and businesses. This includes Marriage Licensing, which processes applications for marriage licenses and provides information on the legal requirements for marriage; Concealed Carry Licensing, which manages applications for concealed carry permits, ensuring compliance with state regulations; and Health Licensing, which issues licenses for health-related businesses and professionals, ensuring adherence to public health standards.

Marriage Licensing

As of March 8, 2025, marriage licenses in Martin County, Indiana are issued by the Martin County Clerk’s Office in Shoals. The process follows Indiana state law (IC 31-11) and includes in-person application, required documents, and applicable fees.

Where to Apply
Martin County Clerk’s Office
129 Main St., Shoals, IN 47581
812-247-3651 | Mon–Fri, 8 AM–4 PM

Who Can Apply

Both applicants must apply in person
Must be 18+ (17 with parental consent; 15–16 with court approval)
Out-of-state couples must apply where the wedding will take place

What to Bring

Valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport)
Social Security number
Info about previous marriages (if applicable)

Fees

$25 for Indiana residents
$65 for out-of-state residents
Cash only (bring exact change)
Extra for certified copies (~$2–$4 each)

Concealed Carry Licensing

As of March 8, 2025, Indiana is a permitless carry state, allowing eligible individuals to carry a handgun without a license. However, Shoals residents may still apply for a License to Carry a Handgun (LTCH) for travel reciprocity or personal preference. Licensing is handled through the Indiana State Police in coordination with Martin County officials.

Permit-less Carry

As of July 1, 2022, Indiana allows permitless carry for eligible individuals 18+, meaning no license is required to carry a handgun within the state.

Eligibility

You must:

Be 18+ and a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Have no felony or domestic violence convictions
Not be under a protective order, drug/alcohol dependent, or mentally unfit

License to Carry a Handgun (LTCH) – Optional

An LTCH is still available for travel to other states or personal preference.

Steps to Apply:

Apply online at in.gov
Schedule fingerprinting with IDEMIA ($12.95 fee)
Visit the Martin County Sheriff’s Office (318 Capital Ave, Shoals) to complete processing

Fees:

State & local license fees: $0 (as of 2021)
Fingerprinting: $12.95
Lost license replacement: $20

Health Licensing

In Shoals, health licensing is managed by Martin County and Indiana state agencies, including the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) and the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA).

Common Licenses

Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes (IDOH)
Medical Professionals: Doctors, nurses, aides, pharmacists (IPLA & IDOH)
Food Establishments: Restaurants, vendors (Martin County Health Dept.)
Environmental Health: Septic installers, tattoo parlors (IDOH/local)
Behavioral Health: Licensed through the Division of Mental Health & Addiction (DMHA)

Application Requirements

Submit forms to IDOH, IPLA, or Martin County Health Department
Provide valid ID, proof of training, background check (as needed)
Fees vary by license type (usually $50–$200 annually)
Food businesses must include menu, layout, and food safety certification

Inspections

Food & Healthcare Facilities are inspected regularly for health and safety
Violations must be corrected to avoid fines or license suspension

For questions or applications, contact the Martin County Health Dept. at 812-247-2259 or visit in.gov for state-level licensing.