How to Apply For a Marriage License in South Carolina

There are some fantastically romantic places to tie the knot in South Carolina. Posh Hilton Head Island, quaint Myrtle Beach and hospitable Pawley’s Island are lovely year round. When you say your nuptials at one of the resorts or beaches will give you memories to last a lifetime. If you’re planning to marry in South Carolina, make sure you get your marriage license at least one day before your wedding.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Identification
• Social Security Card
• Cash

1. Collect one driver’s license, voter registration card, birth certificate or valid passport and the social security card for both the bride and groom.

2. Visit the Web site under the Resources section to find the location of the marriage license issuing office closest to you.

3. Visit the county Web site to find the location, hours and directions to the county office you will be applying.

4. Head to the county office with bride, groom, documentation (including premarital certificate) and $25 cash at least one day prior to the ceremony.

Tips & Warnings

• First cousin and common law marriages are permitted.
• Females between the age of 14 and 17 years old may marry when accompanied with a consenting parent to the marriage license application.
• Males 16 and 17 years old may marry when accompanied with a consenting parent to the marriage license application.
• Both the bride and the groom must be present to apply for and sign the marriage license.
• South Carolina marriage licenses are valid indefinitely.
• Proxy and same sex marriages are forbidden.