DC Marriage License

Obtaining a DC Marriage License

Begin by gathering the required documents to apply for a District of Columbia marriage license. This page is intended to help couples understand the basic process and requirements before scheduling a marriage license signature service.

Step 1: Photo Identification

Each person must provide one of the following valid forms of identification:

• • Current US issued driver’s license, learner’s permit, or state-issued ID
  • Current passport
  • US military ID
  • US immigration green card

All identification must be current and clearly legible, including the photograph.
Please note: The names listed on your IDs will appear exactly the same on your marriage certificate.

Step 2: Complete the Marriage License Application

You may complete the DC marriage license application
online or in person through the DC Marriage Bureau.

If you experience difficulty accessing or completing the online form, you may apply in person and receive your marriage license the same day for immediate use.

Name Changes

Name changes cannot be made during the marriage license application process.
Any name change occurs after the marriage. For additional guidance, contact the Social Security Administration.

DC Marriage License Eligibility & Requirements

Age Requirements

• • Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to marry in the District of Columbia without parental consent.

Residency

• • There is no residency requirement to obtain a DC marriage license.
  • Couples may apply regardless of where they live.

Application & Issuance

• • One party to the marriage may apply.
    (Proxy applications are not allowed.)
  • Marriage licenses issued by the District of Columbia are issued the same day and may be used immediately.

Marriage License Fee

• • The current DC marriage license fee is $45.

For the most current information regarding eligibility, fees, and application procedures, please visit the DC Marriage Bureau website.

Note: Online applications are not processed at the same speed as in-person applications.
Applicants should check directly with the DC Marriage Bureau regarding current turnaround times for online submissions.

Ready to Use Our Services?

Once you have applied for your DC marriage license, you will need the name of your officiant for your upcoming marriage license signature service.

👉 Contact us to schedule your appointment.