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Getting a Marriage License in Alabama

Where to apply for a marriage license in Alabama, what to bring, the waiting period, how long it's valid, and the minimum marriage age.

Short answer: Alabama no longer issues marriage licenses or requires a ceremony. Since August 29, 2019, a couple marries by signing a marriage document containing each party's full legal name, identifying information and a notarized affidavit from each party (not currently married, at least 18 or… Ala. Code §§ 30-1-9.1, 22-9A-17

Getting a marriage licenseAlabama no longer issues marriage licenses or requires a ceremony. Since August 29, 2019, a couple marries by signing a marriage document containing each party's full legal name, identifying information and a notarized affidavit from each party (not currently married, at least 18 or 16-17 with parental consent, legally competent, not too closely related, and marrying voluntarily). The signed affidavits and forms must be recorded with the probate judge within 30 days of the last signature; the marriage is valid as of the date both parties signed. The probate judge collects the recording fees set by statute and forwards the record to the Office of Vital Statistics. Couples may still hold any ceremony they choose, but it has no legal effect on validity.
Recording: https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=22-9A-17
Source: Ala. Code §§ 30-1-9.1, 22-9A-17
Minimum marriage ageA person under 16 cannot marry. A 16- or 17-year-old who has not been married before needs the consent of a parent or guardian, given in a notarized affidavit filed with the probate court.
Source: Ala. Code §§ 30-1-4, 30-1-5

Where to get help in Alabama

More Alabama divorce & family law

FAQ

How do you get a marriage license in Alabama?
Alabama no longer issues marriage licenses or requires a ceremony. Since August 29, 2019, a couple marries by signing a marriage document containing each party's full legal name, identifying information and a notarized affidavit from each party (not currently married, at least 18 or 16-17 with parental consent, legally competent, not too closely related, and marrying voluntarily). The signed affidavits and forms must be recorded with the probate judge within 30 days of the last signature; the marriage is valid as of the date both parties signed. The probate judge collects the recording fees set by statute and forwards the record to the Office of Vital Statistics. Couples may still hold any ceremony they choose, but it has no legal effect on validity.
What is the legal age to get married in Alabama?
A person under 16 cannot marry. A 16- or 17-year-old who has not been married before needs the consent of a parent or guardian, given in a notarized affidavit filed with the probate court.

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.