Planning your wedding day is so exciting, smelling the flowers, tasting the cake, find the perfect gown. But don’t forget about the marriage license! It’s one of those little things that can easily slip through the cracks on your wedding to-do list.
There are so many questions about the process that it can be hard to know where to begin so we’ve compiled this information for you:
Where can I get a marriage license?
You must apply for a marriage certificate in the county you are getting married in. For instance, if you are getting married at the MAVFC Reception Hall, you need to apply for a marriage certificate in Carroll County. The Carroll County’s Clerk’s Office address is 55 N. Court Street, Westminster, MD 21157
Does the future husband and wife both have to be present?
No, only one person needs to be present to apply.
How much does a marriage license cost? There is $35.00 fee for the issuance of the license.
Is there a waiting period from the time you apply for the marriage license until you actually get it?
A license is not effective until 6:00 a.m. on the second calendar day after the license is issued, unless otherwise specified on the license.
How long is a marriage license valid for?
The license is issued the same day you apply, and it is valid for 6 months (you must be married within 6 months or the license will expire).
What if me and my fiance both live out of state and can’t apply for a marriage license at the Clerk’s Office? If it is not convenient to visit the Clerk's Office in the county where the marriage is to take place, you may apply for a license using a Non-Resident Marriage License Application-Affidavit form (fillable PDF).
What information is needed to apply for a marriage license?
Full Names
Physical, Permanent Address
Age
State of Birth
Social Security Number (mandatory)
If you have been married before, we need to know the place and date of each divorce or death of a spouse. Supporting documents may be needed if less than thirty (30) days since the divorce or death.
Do I have to be a Maryland resident to get married in Maryland?
No, you don’t. As long as you bring the proper identification and the payment required, you can get a marriage license for any state in the United States.
We hope you find this information helpful. We would love to be a part of your happily ever after, contact us to schedule a tour.