Detailed Virginia Wedding Law Notes
These notes summarize state marriage-license, ceremony, witness, and officiant guidance for the new map experience.
Requirements for the Couple
- Minimum Age: 18 unless legally emancipated under limited rules
- Residency: Not Required
- Marriage Equality: Yes
- Where to Apply: Clerk of the Circuit Court
Couples may apply for a Virginia marriage license at any Clerk of the Circuit Court office when the ceremony will take place in Virginia.
Marriage License Requirements
- Issued By: Clerk of the Circuit Court
- Where Valid: Anywhere in Virginia
- License Validity: 60 days
- Waiting Period: No general waiting period
- Blood Test: Not Required
Virginia licenses are valid for ceremonies in the Commonwealth during the stated validity period. Couples should bring required identification and fee.
Minister and Officiant Requirements
- Celebrant Required: Couple must select an authorized celebrant
- Court Authorization: Some celebrants must be authorized by a Circuit Court
- Out-of-State Clergy: May need court authorization
Virginia has specific celebrant authorization rules. Ministers and one-time celebrants should confirm authorization with a Circuit Court before performing a ceremony.
Ceremony Requirements
- Ceremony Location: Must occur in Virginia
- License Timing: Ceremony must occur within 60 days
- License Completion: Officiant completes both copies
The ceremony may be personalized, but it must be performed in Virginia by an authorized celebrant while the license is valid.
Final Steps
- Return Office: Clerk of the Circuit Court
- Return Deadline: Within 5 days following the ceremony
- Responsible Party: Officiant must return the license
Virginia county guidance states that the officiant is responsible for completing and returning both copies of the marriage license to the Clerk of the Circuit Court within five days after the ceremony.