Marriage License Info

Planning your ceremony? Here's everything you need to know about getting legally married in Virginia. I've guided countless couples through this, and here’s your complete roadmap.


1. Visit Any Circuit Court Clerk’s Office in Virginia

• Both partners must appear together in person at any Circuit Court Clerk’s office located in Virginia. There’s no residency requirement—you can apply at any clerk’s office across the Commonwealth.

• Bring a valid government-issued photo ID for each of you (e.g., driver’s license, passport, military ID).

• Both partners must be at least 18 years old. Virginia no longer allows marriages under age 18.

2. Complete the Application & Pay the Fee

• You'll fill out the marriage license application together at the clerk’s office.

• The fee ranges from $30 to $40, depending on the county and whether you pay by cash, check, or card. Credit cards may incur a small processing fee.

3. Timing Matters — License Valid for 60 Days

• Your license is valid immediately upon issuance—no waiting period required. Perfect for elopements or last-minute plans.

• It must be used within 60 days, or it expires and must be reissued.

4. No Witnesses or Blood Tests Required

• Virginia law does not require witnesses to sign your marriage license.

• No blood tests or waiting periods are required.

5. After the Ceremony — Turn in Your License

• As your officiant, I will sign and return both copies of your completed license to the issuing clerk's office within 5 days of your ceremony.

• Afterwards, the clerk’s office may automatically mail you a certified copy or may require you to order one. It’s important to ask this when you apply:
  
  "Once I return your completed license, will you automatically mail us a copy of our legal marriage certificate, or will we need to request and pay for copies?"
  
  

6. Keepsake Certificate on Your Wedding Day

• At your ceremony, I will present you with a keepsake marriage certificate... a beautifully signed memento of your day.

Why This Matters

It’s critically important to bring your actual marriage license paperwork to your wedding day. If it’s missing, I cannot legally pronounce you married.

Learn More & Locate Your Clerk’s Office

For full, official details and to find the nearest clerk’s office, visit the Commonwealth of Virginia’s official resource:
https://www.vacourts.gov/courts/circuit