How to get married at the courthouse in Maryland is a popular question for couples looking for a legally valid, affordable, and simple wedding option. Maryland makes it easy for residents and out-of-state couples to tie the knot through a courthouse ceremony, thanks to its well-structured marriage license process and accessible District Courts across the state. Whether you’re getting married in Baltimore City, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, or smaller counties like Talbot or Garrett, getting married at the courthouse in Maryland follows a consistent process with minor regional variations. This method is ideal for couples who want a quiet ceremony, are on a budget, or prefer a no-frills legal union. In this guide, we’ll cover the requirements, detailed steps, and important considerations for getting married at the court in Maryland, so your courthouse wedding goes smoothly from start to finish.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Maryland
Before getting married at the courthouse in Maryland, couples must fulfill several legal requirements set by the state. These requirements apply across all counties and cities but may have slight procedural differences depending on the local clerk's office.
1. Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Seventeen-year-olds can marry with a court order and proof that one of the parties is pregnant or has a child in common. Marriage under age 17 is not permitted.
2. Valid Identification: Each applicant must present a valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID card. Some counties may also request proof of residency.
3. Marriage License: A marriage license must be obtained from the Circuit Court Clerk in the Maryland county where the marriage will take place. Maryland does not require residency, but you must marry in the same county where the license is issued.
4. 48-Hour Waiting Period: After receiving the marriage license, there is a mandatory 48-hour waiting period before the ceremony can be performed. This rule is strictly enforced unless waived by a judge for special circumstances.
5. Marriage License Fee: The marriage license fee varies by county but generally ranges from \$35 to \$85. For example, the fee in Montgomery County is \$55, while Baltimore City charges \$85. Cash or credit card is typically accepted, but always check with the specific court.
6. No Blood Test Required: Maryland does not require a blood test or physical exam to apply for a marriage license.
7. Previous Marriages: If either party was previously married, you must provide the exact date and location of the divorce or the spouse’s death. Some counties may request a copy of the divorce decree or death certificate.
8. License Validity: The marriage license is valid for six months (180 days) after the issue date. If not used within that period, a new license must be obtained.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Maryland
1. Apply for a Marriage License from the Appropriate Circuit Court Clerk
The first step in getting married at the courthouse in Maryland is applying for a marriage license from the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where you plan to be married. Both parties must apply in person, but some counties (like Montgomery or Prince George’s) offer mail-in or remote applications if you're out of state. Bring valid IDs and be ready to pay the required fee. The clerk will issue your license, but you must wait 48 hours before you can legally marry. For example, if you apply at the Anne Arundel County courthouse on a Monday, you can marry on Wednesday. Make sure you plan accordingly to meet your desired wedding date.
2. Schedule a Civil Ceremony with the District Court or a Judge
Once you have your license and have passed the waiting period, schedule your courthouse ceremony. Not all Circuit Courts in Maryland perform civil marriages, but most District Courts do. In Baltimore City, for example, you can schedule a ceremony through the District Court for a small fee (usually \$25 to \$35). Some counties allow walk-ins, while others require appointments. Contact the District Court clerk in the same county where your license was issued to confirm scheduling. Always ask about guest limits and whether witnesses are required (though in Maryland, witnesses are not legally required for the ceremony).
3. Attend the Courthouse Ceremony
On the day of the ceremony, arrive at the courthouse at least 15 minutes early with your marriage license and photo IDs. Many couples opt for simple attire, though some still dress up for photos and to mark the special occasion. The judge or court-appointed officiant will guide you through a short ceremony, which typically lasts 10–15 minutes. Some locations, such as Montgomery County or Howard County, provide a designated room or office for the ceremony, while others perform it in the courtroom. After the vows, the officiant signs your license, making your marriage legally binding.
4. File the Completed License with the Clerk
After the ceremony, the officiant or court staff will file the signed license with the Clerk of the Circuit Court. This step is required to officially record your marriage. The court retains the original license for its records. You can then request certified copies of the marriage certificate, which are needed for name changes and legal documentation. Processing typically takes a few business days.
5. Obtain Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
To get a certified copy, visit or contact the Clerk’s Office where the license was filed. Each copy usually costs between \$5 and \$10. For instance, Baltimore County allows in-person, mail-in, and online requests. Certified copies are essential for updating your Social Security card, driver's license, bank accounts, and other official documents. Be sure to order at least two copies for convenience.
6. Complete Legal Name Changes and Documentation (if applicable)
If either partner is changing their name, the certified marriage certificate will serve as the legal proof. Start with the Social Security Administration, then proceed to the Maryland MVA for your updated driver’s license. Notify your employer, banks, insurance providers, and any other relevant institutions. The process takes time but is straightforward when you have the correct documentation.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Maryland
1. County-Specific Processes and Fees
Each Maryland county has its own policies regarding license applications, ceremony scheduling, and fees. For example, in Prince George’s County, ceremonies are held at the Hyattsville courthouse, while in Frederick County, ceremonies are performed by appointment only. Always contact the local court for the most up-to-date details. Being aware of regional differences can prevent delays and confusion.
2. Ceremony Availability and Scheduling Limitations
Courthouse wedding slots are limited and can fill up quickly—especially during holidays or on dates with numerically significant patterns (like 2/22 or 12/12). Not all judges perform ceremonies daily, and some only on specific weekdays. Book your date well in advance if you’re particular about timing. In counties like Montgomery and Howard, same-day ceremonies are rare, so always check availability beforehand.
3. Out-of-State and Non-Resident Couples Welcome
Maryland welcomes out-of-state couples with no residency requirement. However, remember that you must marry in the county where you obtained your license. This makes Maryland a great option for couples from nearby states like Virginia, Delaware, or Pennsylvania. Ensure your travel plans account for the 48-hour waiting period and any scheduling logistics with the courthouse.
4. Simplicity with Legal Weight
A courthouse ceremony may be simple, but it carries full legal recognition. Whether you're marrying for love, immigration, tax benefits, or legal protection, a civil wedding offers all the rights and responsibilities of marriage. It's a straightforward choice with no less significance than a traditional event. Many couples choose to hold a larger celebration or religious ceremony later.
5. Privacy and Intimacy of Civil Ceremonies
Civil courthouse weddings often include just the couple, the officiant, and a few guests—if any. This provides a quiet and personal setting for couples who want to focus solely on their commitment without the stress of a large crowd. Maryland courts typically allow up to 6 guests, but it varies by location. Always confirm guest limits with your specific courthouse.
6. Combining the Courthouse Wedding with a Maryland Experience
After your courthouse ceremony, celebrate in one of Maryland’s many scenic or cultural attractions. Have lunch at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, take wedding photos by the Chesapeake Bay, or spend the night in Annapolis’ historic downtown. Even a simple courthouse wedding can be memorable when paired with a local adventure. This helps create a meaningful day without the expense of a traditional wedding.
Conclusion
How to get married at the courthouse in Maryland doesn’t have to be complicated. With a clear legal framework, county-level access to marriage licenses, and the availability of civil ceremonies across the state, Maryland makes it easy to legally and meaningfully wed. Whether you're in Baltimore City, Montgomery County, or a rural courthouse in Western Maryland, the steps are manageable and well-supported. Getting married at the court in Maryland offers legal recognition, affordability, and simplicity—all while giving couples the freedom to celebrate in their own way. By following the steps outlined here and considering key factors like location, scheduling, and required documents, your courthouse wedding in Maryland can be a stress-free and joyful experience.
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