Virginia Marriage License Guide | Costs, Requirements & Deadlines
Virginia Marriage License Guide | Costs, Requirements & Deadlines
Planning a wedding in Virginia? One of the most important (but often overlooked) steps is securing your marriage license. Without it, you can’t make things official! Whether you’re getting married in Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Roanoke, or anywhere else in the state, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about marriage licenses in Virginia.
Why You Need a Marriage License in Virginia A marriage license is a legal document issued by the state that authorizes a couple to marry. In Virginia, both parties must appear in person to apply, and there are specific deadlines, fees, and ID requirements to keep in mind.
Marriage License Requirements in Virginia Here’s what you’ll need to bring and know when applying:
Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
Application Location: You must apply at any Virginia Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
In-Person Only: Both people must be present to apply.
No Waiting Period: You can marry immediately after receiving your license.
No Blood Test Required
Valid Photo ID: Driver’s license, passport, or military ID.
Previous Marriages: You must disclose if you’ve been married before and show divorce or death certificates.
Cost of a Marriage License in Virginia
Fee: Typically $30–$35 (varies slightly by county).
Payment: Most courts accept cash, money order, or credit card. Check with your specific court before arriving.
How Long is a Virginia Marriage License Valid?
Expiration: Marriage licenses in Virginia are valid for 60 days.
Use Anywhere in the State: You can apply in one county and get married in another.
Where to Get a Marriage License in Central Virginia Some popular clerk’s offices in Central VA:
Lynchburg Circuit Court
Albemarle County (Charlottesville)
Roanoke City Clerk’s Office
Bedford County Clerk’s Office
Use the Virginia Judicial System Website to locate your nearest clerk.
FAQs About Virginia Marriage Licenses
Q: Do we have to be Virginia residents?
A: No. You don’t need to live in Virginia to get married here or apply for a license.
Q: Do we need a witness?
A: No witnesses are required in Virginia.
Q: Can we apply online?
A: Some counties offer pre-application forms online, but both parties still need to appear in person to finalize.
Q: What if we lose the license?
A: You’ll need to request a duplicate from the clerk's office.
Q: What if we don’t use the license?
A: It expires automatically after 60 days.
Q: Who can perform the ceremony?
A: Any licensed officiant, religious minister, or judge. Civil celebrants are available through the court system.
Final Checklist: What to Bring to the Clerk’s Office
✅ Valid photo ID (for both people)
✅ $30–$35 payment method (cash/card)
✅ Divorce certificate if previously married
✅ Plan to get married within 60 days
Helpful Resources