A Couples Guide To The Pennsylvania Marriage Laws
As a Wedding Planner and Wedding Venue owner in Pennsylvania, I have helped many couples over the past 15 years navigate the laws of obtaining a marriage license!
Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting times in a couple’s life. Among the myriad of details to consider, obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in making your union legally recognized. If you’re planning to get married in Pennsylvania, understanding the ins and outs of the marriage license process is essential. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch.
The Basics of a Pennsylvania Marriage License
In Pennsylvania, a marriage license is an official document that permits a couple to marry. It is issued by the Register of Wills in the respective county and remains valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. You may obtain a license from any County with in the state - it does not need to be the county in which you are getting married. The wedding ceremony must take place within this period; otherwise, a new license must be obtained.
Who Can Apply?
To apply for a marriage license in Pennsylvania, both parties must meet the following requirements:
Age: Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, parental consent and court approval are required.
Identification: Valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, is necessary to prove identity and age.
Social Security Number: Applicants need to provide their Social Security numbers.
Application Process
Applying for a marriage license in Pennsylvania involves a few easy steps:
Visit the Register of Wills: Both parties must appear in person at the Register of Wills office in any Pennsylvania county. You do not have to apply in the county where you plan to marry.
Complete the Application: Fill out the marriage license application and provide the required identification documents.
Pay the Fee: The cost of a marriage license varies by county, typically ranging from $40 to $80. Be sure to check the specific fee for your county and the accepted forms of payment.
Wait for Approval: Pennsylvania has a mandatory three-day waiting period before the license is valid, so plan accordingly.
Special Considerations
While the application process is straightforward, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:
Previous Marriages: If either applicant has been previously married, you must provide documentation of divorce or death of a previous spouse.
Military Personnel: If one or both parties are active military, special provisions may apply, including the ability to apply through mail in certain circumstances.
Self-Unity Marriage License
In addition to the traditional marriage license, Pennsylvania offers a unique option for couples known as the "Self-Unity" marriage license. This alternative allows couples to marry without the presence of a clergy member or officiant, and it has roots in the Quaker tradition, which emphasizes simplicity and direct union.
A Self-Unity marriage license permits a couple to declare themselves married in the presence of two witnesses, without the need for an officiant. This type of license is legally recognized in Pennsylvania and provides an opportunity for couples to have a more personal and intimate ceremony.
This type of license also allows for a special person in the couples life to legally perform the ceremony without having to be licensed through the State of Pennsylvania. If you have someone in your life who you would like to perform the ceremony - there is no need for an online “Ordainment” (which PA does not always approve or recognize) - a self-unity marriage license will work in this situation allowing anyone to perform your ceremony. Pennsylvania Marriage laws regarding officiants can be found here.
How to Apply for a Self-Unity Marriage License
The process for obtaining a Self-Unity marriage license is similar to that of a traditional marriage license, with a few additional considerations:
Visit the Register of Wills
Both parties must appear in person at the Register of Wills office in any Pennsylvania county, just as with a traditional license.
Indicate Your Choice
When completing the application, indicate that you are applying for a Self-Unity marriage license.
Meet the Standard Requirements
You must still meet the age, identification, and Social Security number requirements as outlined for a traditional marriage license.
Pay the Fee
The fee for a Self-Unity marriage license is generally the same as a traditional license, but confirm with your specific county office.
Wait for Approval
The mandatory three-day waiting period also applies to Self-Unity licenses.
For a Self-Unity marriage, the couple must:
Choose Two Witnesses
Select two individuals to witness the ceremony and sign the marriage license. These witnesses serve as confirmation of the marriage in lieu of an officiant.
Return the Signed License
After the ceremony, the signed license must be returned to the Register of Wills within 10 days to be officially recorded.
Lastly, securing your Pennsylvania marriage license is a crucial step in your wedding preparations, and understanding the requirements and process helps make this aspect seamless and stress-free!! One unique option to consider is the Self-Unity marriage license, which offers couples a meaningful and personalized way to celebrate their union. By exploring this alternative, you can choose whomever you want to perform the wedding ceremony. Choosing the marriage license that best aligns with your personal preferences and beliefs, allows you to focus on creating a joyous and memorable wedding day surrounded by family and friends.
At Clear Ridge Events, we are proud to be an independently owned and operated, local wedding venue. When you choose Clear Ridge Wedding Venue near Bedford Pennsylvania area, you're not just booking a venue, you're working directly with the owners, who are dedicated to making your day perfect. You are not just a transaction to us, you become a member of our family. We’re committed to creating memories and intentional moments for you and your family. Contact us to schedule a tour!