How to Obtain a VA Wedding License
Oh yeah, that’s something you have to do isn’t it? Ugh, why does no one talk about this part! The legal part of getting married is rarely talked about when there are easier distractions like decor to talk about. Where the heck do you even start and what do you need to know? Welp, let’s go over the basics!
Applying in Virginia: Yes, if you are getting married in Virginia you will have to apply within the state of Virginia. Where people can easily mess this up is if they are getting married in DC, as DC is not a part of the Virginia state and therefore you would have to apply with DC for a marriage license. If you are a resident of Virginia but you are getting married in another state, you will need to apply for the state you are getting married in! Since Covid-19, some states have actually changed their application rules and states like Calirfonia have temporarily discontinued allowing out-of-state marriage license applications in hopes to lower their level of travelers. So check in advance otherwise you might end up with two wedding days!
How to Apply:
You can do this either in-person at any county clerk’s office or you can apply on-line in a few select locations (check for if appointments are needed). Keep in mind you will have to eventually pick your license up so don’t apply online through the Alexandria location if you aren’t willing to drive that far later. (Check online for their official updated list on sites that take online applications)
Both partners have to be present for the application process
Both partners have to be present for the license pickup
Both partners have to have a government issued ID of some sort
If either party has ever been divorced you will need to have the month/year of the divorce and the jurisdiction it was decreed in. (Currently only Arlington County clerk’s office still requires presenting the official divorce papers, but always check before arriving)
Currently the fee is $30 but always check their official websites for changes
You can get your license and get married all in the same day, there is no required waiting period.
The license is only valid for 60 days from it’s issue date (So get married within those 60 days!)
A lot of Virginia offices only accept cash so be prepared or ask ahead of arrival
Virginia requires that all officiants are licensed by the state of Virginia and will not recognize online ordained officiants.
Check with the Clerk’s Office: Legal regulations and requirements can change without any sort of notice so make sure you have clear communication with someone in the office or have up to date website information on hand. This will help avoid confusion or second trips due to unpreparedness.
