Here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a South Carolina marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your wedding date.
Congratulations and much happiness as you begin your lifetime journey together!
ID Requirement:
You will need to show your drivers license (or voter registration card, birth certificate or passport) and social security card.
Residency Requirement:
You do not have to be a resident of South Carolina.Previous Marriages:
Proof of divorce is not needed.
Covenant Marriage Option:
Waiting Period in South Carolina:
In some South Carolina counties there is a twenty-four (24) hour waiting period. Because of the 24-hour waiting period, if you want to get married on a weekend in these counties, make sure you apply for your license by Thursday.
Fees in South Carolina:
The fees charged to get married in South Carolina vary from county to county.
Other Tests:
Proxy Marriages:
Cousin Marriages:
Common Law Marriages:
Attempts (H 3588) have been made to void common law marriage in South Carolina, but looking at SECTION 20-1-360, it appears that the law has not been changed.
Same Sex Marriages:
No.
Under 18:
If you are under 18, you will need a certified copy of your birth certificate and a notarized statement of parental consent. The parent or legal guardian has to also appear at the same time as the minor to show their identification and to sign the parental consent form. The minimum age for a female is 14 and it is 16 for a male.
Officiants in South Carolina:
Any ordained or licensed clergymen, and justices of the peace.
Miscellaneous:
A SC marriage license does not expire.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage:
Office of Public Health Statistics and Information Systems
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: (803) 898-3630
PLEASE NOTE:
State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.
