Least Romantic part of the Wedding

Obtaining a marriage license is critical in order to be married.  You obtain the marriage license in the state or county you will be married.  Please check the local marriage certificate requirements at least 60 days before your wedding to ensure you have time to obtain your license.  All wedding certificates need to be signed at time of wedding and sent back to the state by the officiate.

DC

What you need: application, proof of age, and proof of previous marriage termination.

Payment: Cash and Money Orders accepted for a $35 Application fee and a $10 Certificate fee.

Timing: It takes 3 days to obtain a marriage certificate after the application is received. You must bring you application receipt when you pick up your marriage certificate.

Expiration: There is no expiration date for the marriage certificate.

Maryland

(Slight difference in requirements based on county and city)

What you need: application, proof of age, and proof of previous marriage termination.

Payment: Cash and Money Orders accepted for $35-$85 payment range.

Timing: It takes 2 days to obtain a marriage certificate after the application is received. You can obtain the certificate the same day; however it will be dated 48 hours ahead

Expiration: There is a 6 month expiration date for the marriage certificate.

Virginia

(Slight difference in requirements based on county and city)

What you need: application, proof of age, and proof of previous marriage termination (in some counties).

Payment: Cash and Money Orders accepted for up to $50 payment range.

Timing: You can obtain a marriage license and marriage certificate on the same day.

Expiration: Marriage must take place within 60 days of license issued.  There is a 6 month expiration date for the marriage certificate.