Alabama marriage license guide
How to get a marriage license in Alabama
Alabama eliminated marriage licenses in 2019 (Act 2019-340). Couples now complete a notarized Marriage Certificate form and submit it to any Probate Court for recording within 30 days of signing — there is no application, no ceremony requirement, and no judge or clergy needed. Recording fees vary by county, generally $70-$105. Common-law marriages formed before January 1, 2017 remain valid, but no new common-law marriages can be formed.
Alabama marriage license at a glance
- Issued by
- Probate Court (marriage certificate recording)
- License fee
- $70–$105
- Waiting period
- None (issued same day)
- Validity
- 30 days from issuance
- Minimum age
- 18 (without parental consent)
- Witnesses required
- 2
- ID requirement
- Government-issued photo ID; Social Security number
- Blood test?
- No (not required in any US state)
- Common-law marriage?
- Not recognized
- Statute
- Ala. Code §§ 30-1-1 et seq.; Act 2019-340
Source: jeffcoprobatecourt.com. Fees vary by county within Alabama — check with the local clerk before applying.
Alabama counties — where to apply
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Informational only — not legal advice. Verify all requirements with your local county clerk before applying.