Delaware Marriage License Requirements | Courthouse Wedding Guide
Planning a courthouse wedding or civil ceremony in Delaware? This is your complete, verified guide to marriage license requirements — fees, waiting periods, witnesses, age requirements, and everything else you need to know to get legally married in Delaware.
Marriage License Requirements in Delaware (2025)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License Fee | $70–$120 (varies by county) |
| Waiting Period | 24 hours |
| License Validity | 30 days |
| Where to Apply | County Clerk (Marriage Bureau) — New Castle, Kent, or Sussex County |
| Documents Required | Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties |
| Residency Required | Not required |
| Minimum Age (No Consent) | 18 |
| Minimum Age (With Parental Consent) | Under 18 — contact county clerk for requirements |
| Witnesses Required | 2 required |
| Ceremony Cost (Estimate) | Varies by officiant |
What You Need to Know About Getting Married in Delaware
License must be returned to the issuing county within 15 days of the ceremony. 24-hour waiting period begins from time of application.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Delaware Marriage License
- Gather your documents — Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties. If previously married, bring your divorce decree or death certificate.
- Visit County Clerk (Marriage Bureau) — New Castle, Kent, or Sussex County — both parties must appear in person unless stated otherwise.
- Pay the fee — $70–$120 (varies by county). Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods (cash, card, money order).
- Observe the waiting period — 24 hours. Plan your application date accordingly.
- Use your license within the validity window — 30 days.
- Return the signed license — after your ceremony, your officiant (or you, if self-solemnizing) must return the completed license to the issuing office.
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Source: Delaware official vital records / court authority. Requirements verified May 2026. Always confirm current requirements directly with your local clerk's office before your visit, as fees and rules are subject to change.