In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. This is the document in your state that allows you to officially tie the knot under the law. The rules for acquiring your marriage license varies from state to state, so you should check with your city's marriage bureau at your clerk of court's office to find out what your local rules are.
You'll typically need to apply for your marriage license at least one month before your wedding ceremony. You'll traditionally need to send in your birth certificates, tax information, and other official documents. You don't, however, want to apply for your marriage license too early. In some states, the licenses do expire, if you don't get married within a few months.
When you apply for your license, you'll not only need a proof of identification and age, will need to provide any information about previous marriages, and will need to pay a nominal fee. You will also need to have a witness when you sign the application, so plan on bringing your maid of honor or best man with you. The bride will need to know what her married name will be before she signs the marriage certificate. You'll have to write that name on the application.
And, believe it or not, just because you have your marriage license sent to you in the mail does not mean you are officially married. You need to have a justice of the peace or a religious clergyman sign the document. On your wedding day, you'll give your chaplain your marriage license, then after the ceremony, he'll sign it and send it to the proper government agency for validation.
ID Requirement: Valid Driver's License or Birth Certificate and Social Security number.
Residency Requirement: Do not have to be a resident of Delaware.
Waiting Period: 1 day; 4 days if both spouses are non-residents
If Divorced: If either applicant has been married before, a certified copy of the divorce decree is needed.
Fees: Cash Only! $35
Other Tests: No tests.
Under 18: Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to obtain a marriage license. Both applicants must be present to apply. Both applicants must present a valid driver's license or birth certificate when applying.
Officiants: Any ordained minister of the gospel and every minister in charge of a recognized church may perform marriages. Ministers do not need to be licensed to perform marriages but they must report their name and address to the local registrar in the district in which they live. Ministers must keep the marriage license or a copy for at least one year. Also, the minister must, within 4 days, complete and return forms required by the State Board of Health to the clerk of the peace.
Valid: License is
valid for 30 days.
The license can only be used within the State of Delaware.
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.
Kent County
Dover, DE
302.736.2155
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