Delaware Marriage License Requirements
Delaware is different. marriage under 18 fully banned, no exceptions
In Delaware, a couple seeking a marriage license must present government-issued photo identification and proof of age. The state sets a strict minimum age of 18 years for both parties, with no exceptions for parental consent or court waiver. Residency is not required to obtain a license, though Delaware does distinguish between resident and non-resident applicants for fee purposes. Blood tests are not required prior to marriage.
Two witnesses who are at least 18 years of age must be present at the time the license is issued. Individuals should confirm current eligibility requirements, fees, and application procedures with the county clerk in the Delaware county where they plan to apply. For authoritative guidance on marriage-license requirements, the Delaware state government website and the applicable county clerk's office provide official information.
| Requirement | Delaware |
|---|---|
| License fee | $50 (DE residents) / $100 (non-residents) |
| Fee set by | State (statewide) |
| Waiting period | none (license issued; effective day after for residents, immediately for non-residents in practice) |
| License validity | 30 days |
| ID required | government photo ID; proof of age |
| Residency required | no (residency only changes the fee) |
| Minimum age | 18 (Delaware bans all marriage under 18 — no consent exception) |
| Blood test | no |
| Witnesses | 2 witnesses (18+) |
| Online option | no — apply in person at the Clerk of the Peace |
| Where to apply | Clerk of the Peace (county office, statewide fee schedule) |
| Governing law | Set by state statute — refer to your state’s official statutes and the issuing County Clerk for the governing rule |
Confirm locally. Requirements come from public-record state law and can change. Verify with the issuing county clerk or state .gov. Informational only — not legal advice.
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