Getting a marriage license in Pennsylvania comes with a lot of little questions, from where you can apply and how long the waiting period is to whether you need witnesses or an officiant.
This FAQ covers the most common Pennsylvania marriage license questions, including fees, timelines, self-uniting licenses, ceremony requirements and what happens after your wedding.
For step-by-step overview of the process, check out our guide on how to get a marriage license in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Marriage License at a Glance
- Apply with a Pennsylvania county courthouse.
- Wait the required three days.
- Receive your marriage license.
- Have your marriage ceremony within the license's 60-day validity period.
- Complete and sign the marriage license.
- Return the completed and signed marriage license to issuing court for recording.
- Wait for the arrival of your marriage certificate.
For a more comprehensive look at what happens before and after your wedding, see our Marriage License & Certificate Timeline in Pennsylvania.
Applying for a Marriage License FAQ
Where do we apply for a marriage license in PA?
Every county in Pennsylvania issues its own marriage licenses through the courthouse. If your planning a wedding in Central PA check out our Marriage License Directory for county specific information.
Does matter what county you get your marriage license in?
No. A Pennsylvania marriage license issued by any county can be used for a wedding anywhere in Pennsylvania. You do not need to apply in the county where you live or the county where your wedding will take place.
How much does a marriage license cost in Pennsylvania?
Marriage license fees vary by county, typically ranging from $40 to $90. Some courthouses accept cash only, while others allow cards or money orders. It is best to check with your county courthouse before you apply.
For a closer look at county fees and what you can expect to pay, see How Much Is a Marriage License in Pennsylvania?.
Can you apply for your marriage license online in Pennsylvania?
Some counties now offer online applications or virtual appointments. You’ll usually complete an online form, then appear in person or virtually to verify your identities. Check your county’s courthouse website for the latest details.
Do you need to go in person to apply for a marriage license?
Some counties now offer online applications or virtual appointments, which means you do not need to physically show up in person to apply. However, both applicants must appear together in person, whether it be at the courthouse or through a virtual appointment to confirm their identities.
What do you need to bring to apply for a marriage license?
Most Pennsylvania counties will ask both applicants for: government-issued photo IDs, Social Security numbers, and payment for the marriage license fee. If either of you has been married before, you will need a divorce decree (with court seal) or death certificate, if widowed.
For a full list of what to have ready before you apply, see our Pennsylvania Marriage License Checklist: Everything You Need to Bring.
Do you need a blood test to get a marriage license in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania does not require blood tests or medical exams for marriage licenses.
Timing + Validity FAQ
How long does it take to get a marriage license in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a mandatory three-day waiting period after you apply before your license can be issued, unless a court grants an exception.
Wondering if there’s any way around the wait? Read Can You Get Married the Same Day You Apply for a Marriage License in Pennsylvania? for a closer look at same-day options and exceptions.
When should you apply for your marriage license?
Plan to apply 3 to 6 weeks before your wedding date. This allows you time to factor in waiting periods, courthouse hours, and scheduling.
How long does a Pennsylvania marriage license last?
A Pennsylvania marriage license is valid for 60 days after it is issued.
What happens if you don’t get married within 60 days of getting your license?
If your wedding doesn’t take place within the 60-day window, your license will expire, and you will need to reapply. Counties don’t offer extensions or refunds, but reapplying is simple. You will just need to repeat the process and pay the same fee.
Ceremony + Officiants FAQ
Who can officiate a wedding in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania allows judges, mayors, and ordained ministers of any denomination to officiate weddings. Online ordinations are generally accepted as well, but can vary from county-to-county. If your officiant was ordained online, be sure to double-check with your county to make sure they’ll recognize it, most do, to avoid any issues.
Can you have a friend or family officiate your wedding?
Yes, a friend or family can officiate if they’re ordained (including online ordination). If they’re not ordained, you can opt for a self-uniting license, which doesn’t require an officiant.
Do you need witnesses to get married in Pennsylvania?
If you have an officiate, then you do not need to have any witnesses, If you have chosen a self-uniting marriage, you will need at least two individuals who are at least 18 years old to serve as witnesses and sign the marriage license.
Who can be a witness for a self-uniting marriage in PA?
Witnesses can be friend, family members or anyone present at the ceremony who are at least 18 years old.
For more details on witness requirements, see Who Can Be a Witness at a Wedding in Pennsylvania?
How many witnesses do you need?
You’ll need two witnesses for a self-uniting ceremony. They must be adults (18+) and sign your marriage certificate after the ceremony. You do not need any witnesses if you have an officiant.
What is a self-uniting marriage license?
A self-uniting license allows couples to marry without an officiant. After the ceremony, the couple and two witnesses sign the marriage certificates. This option, rooted in Quaker tradition, is unique to Pennsylvania and perfect for couples who want a personal or secular ceremony.
If you're considering this option, read our complete guide to How to Have A Self-Uniting Ceremony in Pennsylvania.
Does Pennsylvania allow self-uniting marriage licenses?
Yes. Pennsylvania is one of the few states that offers this option. You’ll just need two adult witnesses to sign your license during your ceremony.
Wedding Location FAQ
Can you get married in another county?
Yes. Your Pennsylvania marriage license is valid anywhere in the state of Pennsylvania, regardless of where it was issued. Just make sure to return the signed license to the issuing county after your ceremony.
Can you get married in another state?
No. A Pennsylvania marriage license is only valid within Pennsylvania. If you’re getting married in another state (like Maryland or New Jersey), you’ll need to apply there.
Can you get married in another country?
No, you cannot get married in another country with a Pennsylvania license. Destination weddings require following that country’s marriage laws. For a symbolic ceremony abroad, many couples choose to legally marry in PA first so their marriage is recognized back home.
After the Ceremony FAQ
Who is responsible for returning the signed marriage license?
Usually, your officiant returns the signed license to the courthouse within 10 days. If you used a self-uniting license, you and your witnesses must handle the return.
When is your marriage official?
Your marriage isn’t official until the county records your license. Be sure it is turned in to the courthouse that issued it promptly after the ceremony.
When will we receive our official marriage certificate?
Once the county processes your signed license, you can request a certified copy (usually takes a few weeks). This is your official proof of marriage.
Can you change your names after marriage?
Yes. Once you have your certified marriage certificate, you can update your name with Social Security, PennDOT, your bank, and any other institutions.
What if you lose your marriage license before the wedding?
If your license is lost or damaged before the ceremony, contact the issuing county immediately. They may reissue a duplicate for a small fee.
What if your officiant forgets to return the license?
If your officiant fails to return it, your marriage is not recorded and legally recognized. Contact the county courthouse right away. Most counties will accept late returns, but it may delay your certificate.
Legal Requirements FAQ
Once you apply for a marriage license, are you legally married?
No, the license only gives you permission to marry. You must have a ceremony, have it officiated (or have a self-united ceremony), and return the signed license to be recorded before your marriage is legally recognized.
How old do you have to be to get married in Pennsylvania?
You must be at least 18 years old to receive a marriage license in Pennsylvania. State law does not allow a marriage license to be issued if either applicant is under 18.
Can non-U.S. citizens get married in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Non-U.S. citizens can marry in Pennsylvania with valid identification (like a passport). A Social Security number is not required if you don’t have one.
Do you have to be Pennsylvania residents to get married in Pennsylvania?
No. Out-of-state couples can apply for a marriage license in any Pennsylvania county and have their ceremony anywhere within the state.
What do you do after getting your marriage license?
After you receive your Pennsylvania marriage license, the next step is to wait out the three-day waiting period, have your wedding ceremony within 60 days and make sure the completed marriage license is returned to the county that issued it for recording.
