Amidst the chaos and excitement of wedding planning, one detail you don’t want to overlook is applying for your marriage license. This legal document is what makes your wedding recognized in the eyes of the law, and the process in Pennsylvania is pretty straightforward once you know what to expect.
If you’re planning a wedding in Central PA, here’s everything you need to know about applying for your marriage license.
Where to Apply
Marriage licenses in Pennsylvania are issued at the county courthouse. In Central PA, that means you’ll need to go to the Register of Wills or Clerk of Orphans’ Court office in the county where you live or plan to be married.
Popular counties in the region include:
- Lancaster County
- York County
- Dauphin County (Harrisburg area)
- Lebanon County
- Adams County
Want details for your specific county? Check out our Central PA Marriage License Directory,a quick, county-by-county guide to courthouse locations, hours, and fees.
Worth Knowing: You must obtain a marriage license in the state in which you are getting married. That license will be valid across the entire state (including all counties).
What You'll Need
When applying, both partners must appear in person (even for virtual appointments) and bring the following:
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID)
- Social Security numbers (if applicable)
- Payment for the application fee (varies by county, usually $50–$90; check if they accept cash, card, or money order)
If either partner was previously married, you’ll also need:
- A divorce decree (with the court's seal)
- Or a death certificate, if widowed
When to Apply
There are three things to consider when applying for a marriage license in Pennsylvania:
- Pennsylvania has a 3-day waiting period from the time you apply until you can use your license. That means if you apply on Thursday, the earliest you can use it is Monday.
- The license is valid for 60 days. This means you must apply within two months of your wedding date.
- In some counties, offices require an appointment to be scheduled to apply for a marriage license.
With those three things in mind, don’t wait until the last minute to apply! Courthouses can have limited hours, and you don’t want to risk cutting it too close. Plan to apply for your wedding license 3–6 weeks before your wedding to give yourself peace of mind.
Did You Know? Pennsylvania is one of the few states that allows a self-uniting marriage license, which doesn’t require an officiant. These are especially popular for couples who want a more personal or non-religious ceremony. You will be required to have two adult witnesses who are often friends or family present for the ceremony. The witnesses will sign the license after the ceremony.
Worth Knowing: Your officiant must return the signed license to the county after the ceremony to make your marriage official! For self-uniting marriage licenses, it is your responsibility.
Central PA Marriage License Quick Reference
Decide which county courthouse you’ll apply in
→ Check their website for hours, fees, and appointment requirements.
Gather your documents
→ IDs, Social Security numbers, and divorce or death papers if needed.
Apply together either in person or virtually
→ Fill out the paperwork at the Register of Wills office.
Pay the fee
→ Expect $50–$90 depending on the county.
Wait 3 days
→ Your license becomes valid on the fourth day.
Pick up your license (if the county requires it)
→ Some counties mail it; others require pickup.
Get married within 60 days
→ Your officiant (or witnesses, if self-uniting) will sign it, and you’ll return it to the county.
Applying for your marriage license might not be the most romantic part of wedding planning, but it’s one of the most important. A little preparation goes a long way and with your license in hand, you’ll be one step closer to saying “I do” in the heart of Central Pennsylvania.
Still have questions about the process?
Check out our Pennsylvania Marriage License FAQ, a quick, clear guide to the most common questions Pennsylvania couples ask while applying for a marriage license.
