Maryland marriage license guide
How to get a marriage license in Maryland
Maryland requires applying in the county where the wedding will be performed, not where the couple lives. A 48-hour waiting period applies — the license becomes effective at 6 a.m. on the second calendar day after issuance and is valid for six months. Fees vary by jurisdiction from $35 (Baltimore County) to $85 (Baltimore City). Two witnesses are required. Maryland does not recognize common-law marriage formed in-state.
Maryland marriage license at a glance
- Issued by
- Clerk of the Circuit Court (county where wedding occurs)
- License fee
- $35–$85
- Waiting period
- 2 days
- Validity
- 180 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
- Md. Code Ann., Fam. Law §§ 2-101 et seq.
Source: www.mdcourts.gov. Fees vary by county within Maryland — check with the local clerk before applying.
Maryland counties — where to apply
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Informational only — not legal advice. Verify all requirements with your local county clerk before applying.