How to get married at the courthouse in South Carolina is a common question for couples seeking an easy, affordable, and legally binding way to say their vows without the complexities and costs of a large traditional wedding. South Carolina offers a straightforward courthouse marriage process that residents and visitors can use to make their union official in any county across the state. Whether you live in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, or a smaller town like Spartanburg or Beaufort, courthouse weddings are a practical and popular option. This method allows couples to avoid the stress of planning an elaborate ceremony while still obtaining a legally recognized marriage in a timely fashion. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting married at the court in South Carolina, including all legal requirements, step-by-step instructions, and important considerations to help you prepare for your courthouse wedding day.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in South Carolina
To get legally married at a South Carolina courthouse, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age Requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without restrictions. Minors aged 16 or 17 can marry but must have parental consent. Those under 16 generally cannot marry in South Carolina. This ensures that younger couples have the necessary support and legal approval before marrying.
2. Residency: South Carolina does not require residency to apply for a marriage license or hold the ceremony. Couples from other states or countries can marry at any county courthouse or probate court within South Carolina.
3. Marriage License Application: Both parties must apply together in person at the Probate Court in the county where you intend to marry. The application involves filling out personal information, such as full names, dates of birth, social security numbers (if applicable), and information about previous marriages.
4. Identification: Both applicants must present valid, government-issued photo identification to verify identity and age. Acceptable IDs include a driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or military ID.
5. Marriage License Fee: The fee varies by county but generally ranges between \$30 and \$40. This fee must be paid at the time of application, often via cash, check, or card, depending on the county’s policies.
6. No Blood Tests or Medical Exams Required: South Carolina does not require any blood tests or medical exams prior to issuing a marriage license.
7. Waiting Period: There is no waiting period in South Carolina. Couples can marry immediately after obtaining their marriage license, making it a convenient option for those who want a quick ceremony.
8. License Validity Period: The marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. You must have your ceremony within this period or the license will expire.
9. Previous Marriages: If either party was previously married, you must provide the date the last marriage ended and may be asked for proof of divorce, annulment, or death of a previous spouse.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in South Carolina
1. Apply for Your Marriage License at the Probate Court
The first step in getting married at the courthouse in South Carolina is applying for your marriage license at the Probate Court in the county where you plan to have your wedding. For example, if you are marrying in Charleston County, visit the Charleston County Probate Court. Both parties must appear in person and bring valid photo IDs such as a driver’s license or passport. You will complete the application, providing personal information including your full legal names, dates of birth, and social security numbers if you have them. The clerk will collect the marriage license fee, generally between \$30 and \$40. Since there is no waiting period, you can marry immediately after receiving your license.
2. Schedule or Plan Your Courthouse Wedding Ceremony
After obtaining the marriage license, you can schedule your courthouse wedding ceremony. Many South Carolina counties allow walk-in ceremonies, but some may require appointments due to staff availability or COVID-related restrictions. The ceremony is typically conducted by the probate judge, a magistrate, or other authorized official. You can call the Probate Court in advance to confirm ceremony availability, hours, and any fees associated with the actual wedding ceremony, which may be separate from the license fee. The ceremony itself usually lasts about 15 to 30 minutes and can be as simple or personalized as you choose within courthouse policies.
3. Prepare for Your Wedding Day at the Courthouse
Bring your marriage license and valid IDs for both parties on the wedding day. South Carolina law requires at least one witness over 18 to be present to sign the marriage license during the ceremony. Your witness must also bring photo identification. The officiant will lead you through your vows and complete the legal requirements by signing the marriage license along with you, your spouse, and the witness. Most courthouse weddings in South Carolina are brief and informal but can be customized with personal vows or readings if permitted by the officiant.
4. Return the Signed Marriage License for Official Recording
Once the ceremony concludes, the officiant is responsible for submitting the signed marriage license back to the Probate Court for official recording. This step is crucial to legally validate your marriage. You may want to confirm with the Probate Court after a few days that your marriage license has been recorded properly to avoid any issues in the future.
5. Request Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
After your marriage license has been recorded, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Probate Court or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Certified copies are necessary for legal name changes, updating insurance, and other official purposes. The cost usually ranges from \$5 to \$15 per certified copy. Ordering several copies at once is wise to save on future fees and trips.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in South Carolina
1. No Waiting Period Means Flexibility and Convenience
South Carolina’s lack of a waiting period allows couples to marry immediately after receiving their marriage license. This is especially helpful for couples needing quick weddings due to personal circumstances like military deployment or travel plans. However, this also means it’s important to have your plans ready and confirm courthouse ceremony availability beforehand to avoid surprises.
2. Fees and Costs Vary by County
While the marriage license fee is generally between \$30 and \$40, some counties may charge additional fees for the actual courthouse ceremony. These fees are usually nominal but vary by location. Check with your county’s Probate Court ahead of time to understand the full cost involved and any payment methods accepted.
3. Witness Requirements Are Minimal But Important
You must have at least one adult witness present to sign your marriage license. Forgetting to bring a witness or a witness without proper ID can cause delays or rescheduling. It’s a good idea to bring two witnesses if possible to be safe, especially if you have a larger party or close friends available.
4. Ceremony Options Can Vary by Location
Some Probate Courts allow you to personalize your ceremony with custom vows, while others keep it very brief and official. If having a personalized ceremony is important to you, ask the clerk or officiant about their policies before your wedding day. Also, consider that larger counties may require appointments and have specific ceremony times available.
5. Courthouse Weddings Are Cost-Effective and Low Stress
Compared to traditional weddings, courthouse weddings save money on venues, catering, decorations, and other typical wedding expenses. They also reduce the stress of planning and coordinating large events, making the process more intimate and relaxed for the couple.
6. Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate Are Essential Documents
Once your marriage license is filed, certified marriage certificates are necessary for legal name changes, health insurance updates, tax filings, and more. It’s important to order these copies promptly and keep them in a safe place. Having multiple certified copies helps avoid delays if you need to provide proof of marriage for different institutions.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get married at the courthouse in South Carolina empowers couples to complete their marriage efficiently, legally, and affordably. With straightforward requirements, no waiting period, and accessible courthouse ceremonies available statewide—from Columbia and Charleston to Greenville and smaller towns like Rock Hill—getting married at the courthouse in South Carolina is an excellent choice for couples seeking a simple, meaningful way to formalize their commitment. By preparing your documentation, understanding county-specific procedures, ensuring you have a witness, and securing certified marriage certificates, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable courthouse wedding experience in the Palmetto State.
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