Virginia Marriage License Online: Your Guide to a Stress-Free "I Do"

Before you pick out the flowers or finalize your guest list, there’s one thing every couple has to check off the list to make your marriage official—getting a marriage license.‍

If Virginia is where you’re tying the know, this guide will make the process feel less like paperwork and more like a smooth part of your wedding journey.

From the required documents to witness rules and license validity, we break down the application process so you can skip the stress.

Planning something simple or going all out? Here’s how to apply for your marriage license online in Virginia—without the stress.

What is a Marriage License in Virginia, and
Why Do You Need It?

A marriage license is your official permission slip to tie the knot in Virginia. It’s a legal must-have before you make your union official. Without it, even the most beautiful ceremony won’t hold legal weight. Think of it as step one—get the license, have the ceremony, and then make it official with a signed certificate!

Types of Virginia Marriage Licenses

Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.

Regular Marriage License

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.

How to Get a Marriage License in Virginia

Getting a marriage license in Virginia is simple. Here’s how to do it:

Start Your Application

Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.

Upload Required Documents

Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.

Pay the Application Fee

Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.

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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.

Where to Apply for a Virginia
Marriage License?

If You’re in Virginia

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.

If You’re in the U.S. but Outside Virginia

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.

If You’re Outside the U.S.

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.

When to Apply for a Virginia Marriage License?

License Validity Period

Marriage licenses in most states expire within 30–90 days. Make sure to check your state’s rules to avoid last-minute stress.

Why Apply in Advance

Processing times can vary. Applying early helps you avoid delays, especially if your wedding is on a weekend or during peak season.

Application Timeline

Some states allow same-day issuance, while others require a waiting period. Plan ahead to meet your wedding timeline.

Receiving Your License

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.

Consequences of Not Using the License in Time

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.

Documents Checklist for Getting
Married in Virginia

Detailed step by step application process
1

Proof of Identity

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.

2

Social Security Numbers

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.

3

Proof of Age

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.

4

Divorce or Death Certificate (if applicable)

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.

5

Application Form

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.

6

Fees

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.

7

Residency Information

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.

8

Blood Tests

Virginia does not require blood tests for marriage license applications. This requirement was eliminated in 1980.

9

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What to Do After You Receive Your
Virginia Marriage License?

1. Review the Marriage License
  • Check names, dates, and personal details.
  • Confirm the expiration date to avoid delays.
3. Get Married!
  • Hold your ceremony
  • Sign the marriage license with your officiant and witnesses
5. Obtain Your Marriage Certificate
  • Request certified copies for legal proof.
  • Plan for processing times (varies by county)
7. Keep Your Marriage Certificate Safe
  • Store it securely—this document is essential for future legal and financial matters.
1. Review the Marriage License
  • Check names, dates, and personal details.
  • Confirm the expiration date to avoid delays.
2. Plan Your Wedding Ceremony
  • Choose an officiant
  • Finalize the location
  • Arrange required witnesses (if applicable)
3. Get Married!
  • Hold your ceremony
  • Sign the marriage license with your officiant and witnesses
4. File the Marriage License
  • Return the signed license to the issuing office
  • Verify its official filing to make your marriage legally valid
5. Obtain Your Marriage Certificate
  • Request certified copies for legal proof.
  • Plan for processing times (varies by county)
6. Update Legal Documents
  • If you’re changing your name, update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and financial accounts
  • Review and update insurance policies and tax information
7. Certificate Safe
  • Store it securely—this document is essential for future legal and financial matters.
2. Plan Your Wedding Ceremony
  • Choose an officiant
  • Finalize the location
  • Arrange required witnesses (if applicable)
4. File the Marriage License
  • Return the signed license to the issuing office
  • Verify its official filing to make your marriage legally valid
6. Update Legal Documents
  • If you’re changing your name, update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and financial accounts
  • Review and update insurance policies and tax information

Requirements for Special Situations

Certain cases need more paperwork

If Previously Married
In Virginia, if previously married, you must provide proof of how the prior marriage ended, such as a divorce decree or death certificate.
You'll need to present this documentation when applying for a new marriage license at the circuit court clerk's office in any Virginia county.
The waiting period and other general requirements, like providing valid identification and paying the license fee, remain the same for those previously married.
For Minors
In Virginia, marriage license requirements for minors have changed in recent years to protect young people from forced or coerced marriages.
As of July 1, 2016, the minimum age to marry in Virginia is 18 years old. There are no exceptions for minors under 18 to obtain a marriage license, even with parental consent or judicial approval.
This law was enacted to prevent child marriages and protect minors from potential abuse or exploitation. It also aims to ensure that individuals are mature enough to make such a significant life decision.
Prior to this change, Virginia allowed minors as young as 13 to marry under certain circumstances, but those provisions have been eliminated to safeguard the well-being of young people in the state.

Tips for a Smooth Marriage License Process

Double-Check All Documents

Make sure your IDs, forms, and application details are accurate to avoid delays.

Consider a Pre-Marital Course

Some states offer fee reductions for completing a course—check if it applies to you.

Apply Early and Get Expert Guidance

Avoid last-minute stress by applying in advance and consulting a specialist if needed.

Or, skip the courthouse entirely!

Get Legally Married Online

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general guidance only and outlines common marriage license requirements. Because requirements can vary by county, always verify details with your local county clerk or issuing authority. Courtly is not responsible for any changes, errors, or omissions. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the relevant authority directly.