How to Get a Marriage License in West Virginia

West Virginia, the Mountain State, is home to scores of gorgeous scenery and landmarks, including the Appalachian Mountains (hence its nickname) and the New River Gorge National Park, among other historical sites. This region is also highly recognized due to John Denver's classic song “Take Me Home, Country Roads." But what truly sets this Mideastern state apart from the rest, is that it's one of the most beautiful locations to consider when searching for an enchanting place to say "I do."

Between expansive mountainous terrains that allow for the most gorgeous backdrops and outdoor venues full of charm, there's so much to look forward to when hosting a wedding in the Mountain State. That being said, before you can officially tie the knot in this locale, you'll need to take care of a few legal matters, like obtaining your marriage license. Luckily, the process is relatively straightforward, though there are a few details you'll want to know before you and your partner apply for this important document.

Here, we put together a comprehensive guide on how to get a marriage license in West Virginia. Follow these steps for a seamless experience.

Where to Apply for a West Virginia Marriage License

While you do not have to be a resident of West Virginia to apply for a marriage license within the state, your residency status will dictate where you're able to obtain this document. More specifically, West Virginia residents (meaning, one or both partners live in the state) must apply at the County Clerk's office in the area where they reside. If you and your soon-to-be spouse live out of state, however, you can apply for your marriage license at any County Clerk's office. It's also required for both parties to apply together, in person, as West Virginia does not accept online applications.

When to Apply for a West Virginia Marriage License

There is no waiting period for a West Virginia marriage license, so you and your partner can tie the knot as soon as you obtain this document—unless you're under 18 years old, in which you'll be required to adhere to a three-day waiting period. Another important piece of information to know is that West Virginia marriage licenses are only valid for 60 days. Meaning, your wedding ceremony must take place—and the license must be registered with the county clerk—within that time frame. Failing to do so will result in you having to apply for a marriage license again, including all fees associated with the application.

What to Bring for a West Virginia Marriage License

Before heading to your in-person appointment, you and your partner must have the following documents to obtain your marriage license.

• Proof of Identity and Age: A driver's license, state ID, or passport will be required to verify your full legal name and age. You'll also need to know your parents' full names, including your mother's maiden name, and the states where they were born.
• Social Security Number: Your County Clerk's office will also ask you to verify your social security number. You can either have the number memorized or provide them with the physical card.
• Parental Consent for Minors: For those ages 16 to 18—you cannot get married in West Virginia under the age of 16—you must have the consent (in person) of a parent or guardian. Individuals under 18 are also required to provide a certified copy of their birth certificates.
• Divorce Decree or Death Certificate: Most counties will require documentation to prove a previous marriage has been dissolved. That means you'll need to provide an official divorce decree or death certificate if you were previously wedded—plus, you'll need to be able to provide the exact date the marriage ended.
• Money: A marriage license in West Virginia costs $57, and payment is required at the time of application (cash or personal check). However, if you and your partner have completed a premarital counseling course within one year of submitting your application, and have your certificate of completion to provide to the County Clerk's office, the fee will be reduced to $37.
  

How to Get Married in West Virginia

Once you've obtained your marriage license, you and your partner can officially get ready to say "I do." That being said, you must be aware that West Virginia will not allow first or double cousins to marry unless the relationship is by adoption. Additionally, you may not marry a relation closer than that, including parents, grandparents, siblings, uncles or aunts, or nieces or nephews. Proxy marriages are also not allowed in the state (you and your partner must be present at the ceremony).

If none of the above impacts your nuptials, any ordained minister or official religious representative, who has received authorization to perform marriages in West Virginia, may officiate your wedding. Have your eyes set on a civil or courthouse ceremony? You can easily make an appointment with either a judge or justice within your county to proceed over your nuptials. After the wedding, your officiant will then complete the marriage license and mail (or hand deliver it) to the Couty Clerk's office where you submitted your application—and the rest is history.