Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.
Available to couples where both parties are 18 or older. Requires valid ID and, if previously married, may require proof of divorce. Both parties must complete, notarize, and file the marriage certificate with the probate court within 30 days.
For couples where one or both parties are 16-17 years old. Parental consent is required, and a notarized affidavit of consent must be filed alongside the marriage certificate. Minors under 16 cannot marry in Alabama under any circumstances.
Alabama recognizes common law marriages only if established before January 1, 2017. Couples who meet this requirement can file a marriage certificate to formalize their union. Common law marriages cannot be newly formed in Alabama after this date.
Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
.png){kind=icon}
Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
.png){kind=icon}
Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
.png){kind=icon}
Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
.png){kind=icon}
To have your marriage legally recognized in Alabama, both parties must complete the Alabama Marriage Certificate form. This form must be notarized by an Alabama notary public and submitted to any Alabama probate court for recording. Some counties may offer online pre-application processes to streamline the procedure.
.png){kind=icon}
Regardless of your U.S. residency, you and your partner must complete and notarize the Alabama Marriage Certificate form. While the form can be completed outside Alabama, it must be notarized by an Alabama notary public and submitted to an Alabama probate court for recording.
.png){kind=icon}
If you’re residing outside the U.S., you and your partner must complete and notarize the Alabama Marriage Certificate form. The form must be notarized by an Alabama notary public and submitted to an Alabama probate court for recording.
No matter where you’re located, Courtly simplifies the process, helping you secure your online marriage license easily and legally.
Marriage licenses in most states expire within 30–90 days. Make sure to check your state’s rules to avoid last-minute stress.
.png){kind=icon}
Processing times can vary. Applying early helps you avoid delays, especially if your wedding is on a weekend or during peak season.
.png){kind=icon}
Some states allow same-day issuance, while others require a waiting period. Plan ahead to meet your wedding timeline.
.png){kind=icon}
Most offices issue licenses immediately, though some may take a few days. Confirm whether you’ll need to pick it up or if a digital copy is available.
.png){kind=icon}
If your license expires before your wedding, you’ll need to reapply—and repay the fees again. Stay on top of the deadline to avoid extra hassle.
Both applicants must provide a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport, or military ID. The ID must be current and not expired.
Alabama requires both parties to be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. The photo ID mentioned above typically serves as proof of age. If either party is 16 or 17, they must provide parental consent and proof of age. Minors under 16 cannot marry in Alabama.
Both applicants must provide their Social Security numbers. If an applicant does not have one, they must sign an affidavit stating this fact.
If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce, such as a certified copy of the divorce decree. This ensures that any previous marriages have been legally terminated.
Instead of applying for a license, both parties must complete and sign the Alabama Marriage Certificate form in the presence of a notary public. The notary must be authorized under Alabama law.
Applicants must provide their current address, but there is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage certificate in Alabama.
Both parties must complete and sign the official Alabama Marriage Certificate form. This form is available online through the Alabama Department of Public Health or at a probate court.
The completed and notarized Marriage Certificate form must be filed with an Alabama probate court within 30 days of the last signature. This can be submitted in person or by mail.
Applicants must pay the required recording fee for the marriage certificate. The cost varies by county, so it’s best to check with the specific probate office where you plan to apply.
Certain cases need more paperwork
.png){kind=icon}
Make sure your IDs, forms, and application details are accurate to avoid delays.
.png){kind=icon}
Some states offer fee reductions for completing a course—check if it applies to you.
.png){kind=icon}
Avoid last-minute stress by applying in advance and consulting a specialist if needed.
Detailed step by step application process
Or, skip the courthouse entirely!
Apply for a U.S. marriage license entirely online and have your ceremony officiated by
a licensed professional—all from the comfort of your home.
