How to Get a Marriage License in Delaware

An important step in making your marriage legal is obtaining a marriage license. Following are guidelines on how to obtain a marriage license if you plan to wed in Delaware.

Things You'll Need

• Divorce decree, annulment paper or death certificate, if applicable
• Marriage license application
• Photo identification or certified copies of birth certificates
• Pen
• Cash

Instructions

1. Apply for the marriage license in person at the office of the Clerk of Peace. Both bride and groom must be present. Residency is not required.

2. Present proof of age and identity. A driver's license, military identification or passport are acceptable forms of identification for this purpose.

3. Fill out the application. Applicants may also be asked to provide Social Security numbers, race, ethnicity, educational attainment level, father's and mother's full name (maiden) and state of birth for both applicants.

4. Pay the license fee and head to the altar. There is a 24-hour waiting period (prior to the wedding ceremony) for Delaware residents, and a 96-hour waiting period for non-residents. The marriage license is valid for 30 days from date of issuance.

Tips & Warnings

• If either applicant has been married previously, bring the certified document that ended his or her last marriage, such as a divorce decree, annulment paper or death certificate.

• Blood tests are not required in Delaware.

• Marriage license requirements often change. Verify all information with the local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel arrangements.