How to Apply for a Marriage License in District of Columbia
Couples seeking a marriage license in the District of Columbia apply through the DC Marriage Bureau, which operates as a single citywide office within the Superior Court of DC. There is no county-based application process; all applicants submit to the same centralized bureau. The application may be completed online via the DC Courts marriage portal, making remote filing available to eligible applicants. Applicants must provide a government-issued photo ID, proof of age, and a Social Security number, or complete an affidavit if a Social Security number is unavailable.
DC imposes no waiting period before a marriage may be solemnized; the license becomes valid immediately upon issuance. The District allows self-uniting marriages, in which couples may marry without an officiant present. The license fee is $45, and once issued, the license does not expire. Couples should confirm the current application procedures and any documentation requirements directly with the DC Marriage Bureau to ensure compliance with all current requirements.
- Apply at DC Marriage Bureau (Superior Court of DC) — single citywide office.
- Bring government photo ID; proof of age; SSN (or no-SSN affidavit).
- Pay the license fee ($45 (statewide; DC Marriage Bureau, Superior Court)).
- Online / remote option: apply online via the DC Courts marriage portal; self-uniting/self-solemnization allowed.
Confirm with the issuing office. Hours, appointment rules and accepted documents differ by county. Informational only — not legal advice.
Plan the paperwork around the ceremony
Time the license application to your wedding date: most states have a validity window and some have a short waiting period between issuing the license and the ceremony. Apply early enough that the license is valid on the day — and confirm the exact windows with the issuing county clerk before you lock in plans.
