Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.
Standard license for most couples. Valid for 60 days after issuance. No blood test or waiting period required. Both parties must be present to apply.
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 apply for a Virginia marriage license, visit the Circuit Court Clerk's office in any Virginia county or city. Both parties must be present with valid photo IDs and other required documents. Some offices may require appointments.
.png){kind=icon}
Apply for a Virginia marriage license at any Circuit Court clerk's office in Virginia. You must appear in person with your partner. Out-of-state residents cannot apply remotely; you must visit Virginia to obtain the license.
.png){kind=icon}
To apply for a Virginia marriage license while outside the U.S., contact the Virginia circuit court clerk's office in the county where you plan to marry. They may offer remote application options or provide guidance on the process for international applicants.
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 parties applying for a marriage license in Virginia must provide valid, government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license, passport, or military ID. The identification must be current and not expired.
Applicants are required to provide their Social Security numbers. If an applicant does not have a Social Security number, they must sign an affidavit stating this fact.
Virginia law requires both parties to be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Applicants must provide proof of age through their valid identification or birth certificate.
If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of how the marriage ended. This can be in the form of a certified divorce decree or a death certificate of the former spouse.
Both parties must complete and sign the marriage license application form. This form is typically available at the circuit court clerk's office or may be downloaded from the county's website.
Applicants must be prepared to pay the required fee for the marriage license. The fee amount may vary by county, so it's advisable to check with the specific circuit court clerk's office for current rates.
While there is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage license in Virginia, applicants may need to provide their current address information on the application form.
Virginia does not require blood tests for marriage license applications. This requirement was eliminated in 1980.
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.
