Marriage Requirements for Pennsylvania

Marriage Requirements for Pennsylvania

If you've just set a date for your wedding, this can be an exciting time for the two of you!

Don't let the marriage license laws of Pennsylvania put a dent in your wedding plans. Here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a Pennsylvania marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your wedding date.

Congratulations and much happiness as you begin your lifetime journey together!

Requirements may vary as each county in Pennsylvania could have their own requirements.

ID Requirement in Pennsylvania:

You will need to present photo identification such as your driver's license, state ID, or passport. Social Security numbers will be requested.

Residency Requirement:

You do not have to be a resident of Pennsylvania. However, some counties may require that you both speak English or bring with you someone who can translate.

Previous Marriages:

You will need to show a certified copy of the final divorce decree, with court raised seal, of your divorce or annulment decree or know the date of death of a deceased spouse.

If you have resumed your maiden name, related documents must be shown. Foreign documents must be translated into English.

Waiting Period in Pennsylvania: There's a three (3) day waiting period in Pennsylvania.

You can request a waiver of the waiting period. Send a letter as early as possible addressed to the County Register, requesting a Waiver and your reason why. Your letter should contain both names, a telephone number, proof of your wedding date (a wedding invitation will work), and a return address so a letter of confirmation to be sent to you. There is an additional $15.00 fee in cash only for this service.

Fees in Pennsylvania: It will cost you approximately $40 to get married in Pennsylvania. Cash only.

Other Tests: None.

Proxy Marriages in Pennsylvania: No.

Cousin Marriages in Pennsylvania: No.

Common-Law Marriages in Pennsylvania.: No. However, your common-law marriage will be recognized in Pennsylvania if it was created before January 1, 2005.

Same Sex Marriages in Pennsylvania: No.

Under 18:

If either of you are under 18 years of age, you must pay an additional $5.00, show your Birth Certificate, and have the written consent of a parent or guardian. Anyone under 16 years of age needs parental consent and the approval of a Judge of the Orphans Court.

Officiants:

Any ordained minister who has filed credentials with the county clerk of the county in which he/she resides or in which the marriage is to be performed. Judges, Justices of Peace, and County Clerks or their appointed Deputies may also perform wedding ceremonies. Mayors of cities and boroughs are also authorized to perform marriage ceremonies.
See Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 23, Chapter 15 for more information.

Self-Uniting Marriage License:

Yes. If you want this type of license, you need to inform the clerk before you begin the application process.

Miscellaneous:

License is valid for sixty (60) days.

Copy of Certificate of Marriage:

For marriage records, you will need to contact the Marriage License Clerk, County Court House in there county where the license was issued.

PLEASE NOTE:

State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.