West Virginia Marriage License Requirements | Courthouse Wedding Guide
Planning a courthouse wedding or civil ceremony in West Virginia? 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 West Virginia.
Marriage License Requirements in West Virginia (2025)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License Fee | Varies by county (typically $35–$56) |
| Waiting Period | None |
| License Validity | 60 days |
| Where to Apply | County Clerk's office — residents apply in their home county; non-residents can apply in any county |
| Documents Required | Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties |
| Residency Required | Partial — residents in home county; non-residents in any county |
| Minimum Age (No Consent) | 18 |
| Minimum Age (With Parental Consent) | Under 18 — contact county clerk for requirements |
| Witnesses Required | Not required (no statutory requirement) |
| Ceremony Cost (Estimate) | Varies by officiant |
What You Need to Know About Getting Married in West Virginia
No waiting period. No witnesses required. License must be returned by the 6th day of the month following the ceremony.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your West Virginia 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's office — residents apply in their home county; non-residents can apply in any county — both parties must appear in person unless stated otherwise.
- Pay the fee — Varies by county (typically $35–$56). Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods (cash, card, money order).
- Observe the waiting period — None. Plan your application date accordingly.
- Use your license within the validity window — 60 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: West Virginia 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.