Pennsylvania marriage license guide
How to get a marriage license in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of the few states where the Register of Wills (also serving as Clerk of Orphans' Court) issues marriage licenses rather than a county clerk. A three-day waiting period applies and the license is then valid for 60 days statewide. Fees vary by county from about $40 to $90. Pennsylvania uniquely permits self-uniting (Quaker-style) licenses with no officiant. Common-law marriage was abolished on January 1, 2005; earlier ones remain valid.
Pennsylvania marriage license at a glance
- Issued by
- Register of Wills / Clerk of Orphans' Court
- License fee
- $40–$90
- Waiting period
- 3 days
- Validity
- 60 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
- 23 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 1101 et seq.
Source: www.dauphincounty.gov. Fees vary by county within Pennsylvania — check with the local clerk before applying.
Pennsylvania counties — where to apply
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Informational only — not legal advice. Verify all requirements with your local county clerk before applying.