Getting a Marriage License in Pennsylvania
Where to apply for a marriage license in Pennsylvania, what to bring, the waiting period, how long it's valid, and the minimum marriage age.
Short answer: Both parties must file a written, verified application and appear in person to be examined under oath about the legality of the marriage and any prior marriages (an affidavit is allowed for someone on active military service or when the register of wills office is closed by an emergency). 23 Pa.C.S. §§ 1301, 1302, 1303, 1306, 1307, 1310
| Getting a marriage license | Both parties must file a written, verified application and appear in person to be examined under oath about the legality of the marriage and any prior marriages (an affidavit is allowed for someone on active military service or when the register of wills office is closed by an emergency). The issuing official must be satisfied as to both applicants' identity. The license cannot be issued until the third day after the later of the two applications, unless a court allows it sooner for an emergency or for a reservist called to active duty. The license is valid for 60 days and may be used anywhere in Pennsylvania. No statewide license fee is set in Chapter 13; ask the county office that issues marriage licenses (the statute refers to the register of wills). |
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| Minimum marriage age | No marriage license may be issued if either applicant is under 18. Since a 2020 amendment, there is no exception for parental consent or court approval. Source: 23 Pa.C.S. § 1304(b) |
Where to get help in Pennsylvania
More Pennsylvania divorce & family law
- Adopting a Child in Pennsylvania
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Pennsylvania
- Establishing Paternity in Pennsylvania
- Changing Your Name in Pennsylvania
- Child Custody Laws in Pennsylvania
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Pennsylvania
- Divorce Records in Pennsylvania
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Pennsylvania
- How to File for Divorce in Pennsylvania
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Pennsylvania
- All Pennsylvania divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you get a marriage license in Pennsylvania?
Both parties must file a written, verified application and appear in person to be examined under oath about the legality of the marriage and any prior marriages (an affidavit is allowed for someone on active military service or when the register of wills office is closed by an emergency). The issuing official must be satisfied as to both applicants' identity. The license cannot be issued until the third day after the later of the two applications, unless a court allows it sooner for an emergency or for a reservist called to active duty. The license is valid for 60 days and may be used anywhere in Pennsylvania.
What is the legal age to get married in Pennsylvania?
No marriage license may be issued if either applicant is under 18. Since a 2020 amendment, there is no exception for parental consent or court approval.
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.