Marriage License Information

Whether you are planning a medium to large wedding or planning to just have a quick sign service, one of the most important things to add to your planning list is your marriage license. A license must be obtained through the courthouse prior to your ceremony. Below are some guidelines to help you get your license quickly and easily.

WHERE:

A marriage license can be obtained from any Circuit Courthouse in Virginia. Your license does NOT have to come from the same city or county where your wedding or elopement ceremony will take place.

WHEN:

Normal business hours for most city courts are 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Remember to keep in mind that courts are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and all state and federal holidays so be sure to plan ahead, especially for same day weddings.

WHAT:

You will have to go to the courthouse together and in person. It is not necessary to be a Virginia resident or have a blood test to get a marriage license in Virginia. All you need is a photo ID for each of you and $30 payable to the Circuit Court of Virginia.

LET’S DO THIS:

Once you have the marriage license, you can get married immediately. You must have your ceremony within 60 days of obtaining the license. Following your ceremony, your officiant will fill out and sign the license and return it to the courthouse you got it from.