Marriage License Requirements in West Virginia

Getting married is a life-changing event, but expect some paperwork before you're pronounced man and wife. Have everything you need before you proceed to the West Virginia clerk's office to get your marriage license.

Cost of a License

According to weddingvendors.com, in West Virginia you can apply for a marriage license at the clerk's office in the county where you plan to marry. Licenses are $36, payable in cash.

No Residence Requirements

You do not have to be a current or previous resident of West Virginia to obtain a marriage license there, weddingvendors.com says. No physical exams or blood tests are required.

Three-Day Wait

Applicants will receive their marriage license immediately upon applying, but must wait 3 days before they can get married. The license will expire 60 days after it is issued.

Former Spouses

If you are divorced or your previous spouse died, you must provide a death certificate or divorce certificate before you can apply for a new marriage license, weddingvendors.com reports.

Minimum Age

You must be at least 18 years old to marry in West Virginia, and you may need to provide your birth certificate to prove your age. If you're under 18, you'll need parental consent, and no one under 16 can marry without a court order.

Pregnancy

Pregnant minors may get married without parental consent, weddingvendors.com says, if they have written proof of their pregnancy from a licensed physician.

Illegal Marriages

Marriage between cousins and same-sex marriages are not permitted in West Virginia.

Resources

• Wedding vendors