Pennsylvania Marriage Laws

Pennsylvania State's Marriage Ceremony Officiating Requirements

Identification Requirement in Pennsylvania: Photo identification is needed such as your driving license, state ID. Or passport ID. You shall provide your social security number if requested.

Residency Requirement: Not necessary to be resident of Pennsylvania.

If Previously Married: In such case, you should show your final certified copy of divorce decree with court raised seal, or death certificate of a deceased spouse. You shall know your maiden name, related documents must be shown. Foreign documents must be translated into English.

Wait Period in Pennsylvania: 3 days waiting period is allowed in Pennsylvania. If you need, you can request waiver of the waiting period. A letter with reason (why you are requesting) is needed to send to the Country Register. Information required to include in letter is both names, telephone numbers, wedding date proof, and contact address in case of confirmation letter.

Marriage Fees Required in Pennsylvania: Approximately $40. Cash only.

Any Other Test Required: No.

Proxy Marriages in Pennsylvania: No allowed.

Cousin Marriages in Pennsylvania: Not allowed.

Common Law Marriage Option in Pennsylvania.: No.

Marriage for Same-Sex Option in Pennsylvania: Not allowed.

Under 18 Marriages: In case of under the age of 18 years, you must pay an additional $5.00. Birth certificate is needed and written consent of a parents or authorized guardian is necessary for them. For under the age of 16 years, consent and the approval of a judge of Orphans court is necessary.

Marriage Ceremony Officiants: Following persons can perform the marriages in Pennsylvania: any ordained minister, priest of any regularly established church or congregation, Judges, Justices of peace, and county clerks.

Self-Uniting Marriage License: Yes. Here you need to inform the county clerk before beginning the application process.

License Validation: 60 days.

About Marriage Certificate Copy:

it's better if you confirm the information with the Pennsylvania county clerk or the local marriage license office before finalizing the marriage plans.