How to get married at the courthouse in Maine is a common question for couples who want a straightforward, budget-friendly, and legally recognized marriage. Whether you're a Maine resident or visiting the state for a peaceful courthouse ceremony in places like Portland, Bangor, or Augusta, the process is both simple and accessible. Getting married at the courthouse in Maine is ideal for couples seeking an intimate, low-cost wedding without sacrificing the legality and significance of the event. From obtaining a marriage license to scheduling a civil ceremony with a judge or notary, Maine offers flexibility and ease for anyone ready to say "I do." This detailed guide walks you through the requirements, steps, and important considerations to ensure a stress-free courthouse wedding in the Pine Tree State.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Maine
Before getting married at the courthouse in Maine, couples must meet a set of legal requirements, many of which are uniform throughout the state. However, certain procedures may vary slightly by town or city.
1. Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry legally in Maine. Individuals aged 16 or 17 may marry with written parental consent, but marriage under age 16 is prohibited under Maine law.
2. Valid Identification: Both applicants must provide a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID) to verify their identity and age.
3. Marriage License: A marriage license must be obtained from the municipal clerk's office in the town or city where at least one of the applicants resides. If neither party is a Maine resident, they may apply in any town or city clerk’s office in the state.
4. No Waiting Period: Maine does not have a waiting period, which means couples may marry as soon as they receive the marriage license. This makes courthouse weddings quick and convenient for couples on tight timelines.
5. Marriage License Validity: Once issued, the license is valid for 90 days and must be used within that period anywhere in Maine.
6. Application Fee: The fee for a marriage license in Maine is \$40, payable at the time of application. Some municipal offices accept cash only, so it’s important to verify accepted payment methods in advance.
7. Previous Marriages: If either party was previously married, they must provide the date, place, and cause (divorce or death) of the end of the previous marriage. A certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate may be required.
8. No Blood Test: Maine does not require a blood test or physical examination to get married.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Maine
1. Apply for a Marriage License at the Municipal Clerk’s Office
Your first step in getting married at the courthouse in Maine is to apply for a marriage license. Both individuals must appear in person at a municipal clerk’s office, bringing valid IDs and, if applicable, information about any prior marriages. If you live in Maine, you must apply in the town where at least one of you resides—say, the Bangor City Clerk’s Office if you live in Penobscot County. Out-of-state couples may apply in any town or city in Maine. The process usually takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll leave with your license ready to use. Keep in mind that the license is only valid in Maine and cannot be used in other states.
2. Locate a Courthouse or Judge Who Performs Civil Ceremonies
Not all courthouses in Maine perform marriage ceremonies, so it’s essential to identify a local District or Probate Court or judge who is authorized and willing to marry couples. In Portland, for example, you may contact the Cumberland County District Court to inquire about availability. In smaller towns, the clerk may provide a list of justices of the peace or judges willing to perform weddings. It’s recommended to call in advance to make an appointment and confirm any fees for the ceremony. Some judges may perform weddings at the courthouse, while others may conduct ceremonies offsite, such as in a park or office.
3. Schedule the Civil Ceremony
Once you have your license and have identified an officiant (judge, justice of the peace, or notary public), the next step is to schedule the civil ceremony. Depending on the location, you may be able to get married the same day or may need to wait several days or weeks for availability. For instance, in cities like Augusta or Lewiston, judges may only perform ceremonies on specific days or require advance booking. Ask about guest limitations, required witnesses, and any additional fees. The ceremony is usually short—lasting about 10–15 minutes—and can be held in a courtroom, judge’s chamber, or even outside if permitted.
4. Attend the Ceremony and Bring Required Documents
On the day of the ceremony, arrive early and bring the marriage license and valid identification. Most officiants require at least two witnesses to be present during the ceremony. These can be friends, family, or courthouse staff if available—just make sure they’re 18 or older. Dress respectfully; while formal attire isn’t mandatory, many couples wear business-casual or semi-formal outfits to mark the occasion. During the ceremony, the judge or officiant will lead you through simple vows and sign your marriage license. The signed license is then returned to the municipal clerk for recording.
5. File and Obtain a Certified Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, the officiant is responsible for filing the completed marriage license with the clerk's office where it was issued. Once filed, your marriage is legally recorded, and you can request certified copies of the marriage certificate. These are needed for legal name changes, immigration applications, Social Security, and other official matters. In most towns, certified copies cost between \$15 and \$20 each. For example, the Portland City Clerk allows in-person and mail-in requests for certificates, typically processing them within a few business days.
6. Change Your Name (If Applicable)
If you choose to change your name after marriage, use your certified marriage certificate to update your Social Security record, driver’s license, passport, bank accounts, and other documents. Each agency has its own process, and some require original or certified copies. Maine’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles and Social Security offices recommend scheduling appointments to reduce wait times. Begin this process soon after the marriage to ensure all documents are consistent. Requesting multiple copies of your marriage certificate can help you navigate this efficiently.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Maine
1. Accessibility and Availability
While getting married at the courthouse in Maine is straightforward, not every courthouse performs civil ceremonies. It’s important to confirm which local courts offer this service and whether you need to make an appointment. In rural areas like Oxford or Piscataquis counties, you may be directed to a local notary public or justice of the peace instead of a judge. In cities like Portland or Bangor, courthouses are busier, so you’ll want to book your ceremony early. Understanding local availability can save you time and reduce stress.
2. Privacy and Simplicity
A courthouse wedding offers a private and simple way to get married, especially for couples who prefer to avoid the stress and cost of a traditional wedding. Civil ceremonies typically involve only the couple, the officiant, and a few witnesses. This intimate approach allows you to focus on your commitment without distractions. Some couples later plan larger celebrations or vow renewals, while others find a courthouse ceremony to be more than enough.
3. Budget-Friendly Option
One of the main appeals of getting married at the court in Maine is the affordability. With a marriage license fee of \$40 and minimal officiant costs, you can legally wed for under \$100 in most cases. This is ideal for couples saving for a home, honeymoon, or family planning. Even adding a small celebration afterward—like lunch at a local restaurant or a scenic photoshoot—can be done within a modest budget.
4. Timing and Scheduling Flexibility
Because there is no waiting period in Maine and licenses are valid for 90 days, couples have flexibility in planning their wedding date. However, judge or courthouse availability can limit this flexibility, especially in smaller towns. If you’re planning a specific date—like a holiday, anniversary, or symbolic day—schedule the ceremony in advance. This ensures your marriage takes place exactly when you want.
5. Maine’s Natural Beauty for Photos or Celebration
Many couples combine the simplicity of a courthouse ceremony with the natural beauty of Maine. After getting married, you could take photos on the rocky coast of Acadia National Park, celebrate with a lobster dinner in Bar Harbor, or walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Port in Portland. Even a minimal wedding can feel memorable with Maine's scenic backdrop. This makes the courthouse ceremony not just practical but also charming in its own way.
6. Legal Recognition and Paper Trail
A courthouse marriage is legally binding and recognized across the U.S., making it a secure option for legal matters such as immigration, insurance, and estate planning. Whether you're marrying for love, legal purposes, or both, the legal documentation from a courthouse wedding is official and unambiguous. In Maine, all marriages are recorded by the town clerk, ensuring your paperwork is filed and stored properly. This gives couples peace of mind knowing their marriage is fully legitimate.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get married at the courthouse in Maine makes the process efficient, affordable, and stress-free. From applying for a marriage license to finding a local judge or notary for the ceremony, Maine offers a clear and accommodating system. Whether you're local to Augusta or traveling to Portland for a quiet destination wedding, getting married at the courthouse in Maine is a legally valid and meaningful way to start your new life. With flexible scheduling, low costs, and the natural beauty of Maine as your post-ceremony backdrop, it’s a great option for modern couples looking for simplicity and intimacy. Plan ahead, follow the legal steps, and enjoy the beginning of your marriage—your way.
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