- Please Note: We try to keep this information as up-to-date as possible, however state and county marriage license requirements often change. We provide this information ONLY as guidance and accept no responsibility for any incorrect information.
- ID Requirement: Valid picture ID and a certified copy of a Birth Certificate must be presented.
A license for marriage in Virginia is issued by the clerk, or his deputy, of the circuit of the county or independent city of which either the bride or groom is a resident; or if neither the bride nor groom is a resident of Virginia, the license may be obtained in any county or city. In either case the ceremony may be performed elsewhere in the State. Applicants must, under oath, furnish information, required to complete the marriage record. These items are material matters, and the applicant may be subject to prosecution for perjury for violation of the portion of the statues which requires this information.
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Residency Requirement: Do not have to be a resident of Virginia
No license issued to Out of State couples who are under the age of sixteen. Application Requirement: Both the bride and groom must appear in person at the time of applying.
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Fees: $30 - The justice of the peace is by donation only. He or she may be permitted to charge up to $30 for each couple getting married.
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Waiting Period: No waiting period.
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Blood Tests: No blood test requirement.
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Marriage Ceremony: A minister of any denomination. The minister must produce proof with the religious society. Also, persons appointed by the court may perform the ceremonies. These such persons are called a Justice of the Peace.
The officiator signs and completes the Marriage Register and both forms are returned to the clerk within five days. Then forwarded to the State Division of Vital Records. The couple receives a marriage certificate.
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Officiates: Ordained ministers residing and practicing in this state may perform marriages. Non-resident ordained ministers may perform marriages with the permission of the probate court of the district within which the marriage is to take place. Ministers must complete the marriage license and certificate of marriage and return it to the clerk's office from which it was issued within ten days from the date of the marriage.
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Miscellaneous: There is no statutory requirement that witnesses be present at the marriage ceremony.
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Valid: License is valid for 60 days.
The license can only be used within the State of Virginia.