Maryland Marriage License Requirements
In Maryland, a couple seeking a marriage license must provide a government-issued photo ID, proof of age, and a Social Security number. Residency in Maryland is not required; applicants may apply for a license in the county where the marriage will take place. No blood test is required, and no witnesses are needed to obtain a license.
Maryland permits marriage at age 18 without parental consent. Individuals aged 17 may marry with parental consent or with proof of pregnancy or parenthood. Those aged 16 may marry only with parental consent and a court order; marriage is not permitted for anyone under 16. A 48-hour waiting period applies after the license is issued before the marriage may be solemnized. Marriage license fees vary by county and may range from approximately $10 to $85. Applicants should confirm specific eligibility requirements, fees, and procedures with their county clerk's office or consult the State of Maryland's official statutes.
| Requirement | Maryland |
|---|---|
| License fee | varies by county (~$10-$85; Circuit Court Clerk) |
| Fee set by | County (varies by county) |
| Waiting period | 48 hours (license effective 6am the 2nd calendar day after application; waivable) |
| License validity | 6 months (ceremony in the issuing county) |
| ID required | government photo ID; proof of age; SSN |
| Residency required | no (apply in the county where the marriage will occur) |
| Minimum age | 18 without consent; 17 with parental consent OR proof of pregnancy/parenthood; 16 with consent + court order; under 16 not permitted |
| Blood test | no |
| Witnesses | no witnesses required |
| Online option | some counties offer online application; effective after the 48-hr wait |
| Where to apply | Circuit Court Clerk (county-administered) |
| 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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