Getting Married in South Carolina? Start Here.
MARRIAGE LICENSE INFORMATION
Before the “I do,” you’ll need a valid South Carolina marriage license.
This guide covers the basics for couples getting married in Charleston and throughout the Lowcountry.
THE BASICS
Apply Through a South Carolina County
Marriage licenses are issued through county offices in South Carolina.
You can apply through one county and hold your ceremony elsewhere within South Carolina.
Allow for the 24-Hour Waiting Period
South Carolina requires at least 24 hours between the marriage license application and issuance.
Your Ceremony Must be in South Carolina
A South Carolina marriage license can only be used for a ceremony performed within South Carolina.
No South Carolina Residency Required
You do not need to live in South Carolina to obtain a marriage license here.
This makes the process available to couples planning destination weddings in Charleston.
Ceremony Witnesses Are Not Required
South Carolina does not require separate witnesses to sign your marriage license.
Your officiant signs the license after performing the ceremony.
You may not need to visit a courthouse.
Some South Carolina counties currently offer marriage license processes that can be completed without a courthouse visit.
Charleston County uses an online application. The completed license is currently emailed after processing and the required waiting period.
Dorchester County processes marriage licenses online and mails the completed license to the couple.
Berkeley County also uses an online application. Couples can select mailing instead of courthouse pickup.
This can be especially helpful when you are planning a Charleston wedding from outside South Carolina.
Application procedures change, so always review the issuing county’s current instructions before applying.
PLANNING FROM OUT OF TOWN?
HOW TO GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE
Choose a South Carolina County
Choose the county where you want to apply and review its current requirements.
Your wedding does not have to take place in the county that issues your license.
Apply and Allow Time for Processing
Follow that county’s application process.
Depending on the county, you may apply online, remotely, by mail, or in person.
South Carolina requires at least 24 hours before the license can be issued.
Receive Your Marriage License
Follow the issuing county’s instructions for receiving your license.
Depending on the county, it may be emailed, mailed, or collected from the courthouse.
Keep it safe and bring it with you on your wedding day.
APPLYING THROUGH CHARLESTON COUNTY?
Charleston County currently uses its Live Online Virtual E-Application, or LOVE, for marriage license applications.
Applicants should be prepared to provide:
An accepted identification document
Proof of Social Security number for U.S. citizens
Required immigration documentation for non-U.S. citizens
Contact information for both applicants
The required application fee
A signed statement confirming legal eligibility to marry
Charleston County currently charges $70 plus a transaction fee.
The county emails the marriage license after requirements are completed and processing is finished.
Requirements and fees can change.
Always confirm current information before applying.
COUNTY MARRIAGE LICENSE RESOURCES
Marriage license procedures, fees, and application methods vary by county.
Use the official resources below to confirm current requirements before submitting your application.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE CEREMONY
I Complete the Officiant Paperwork
After your ceremony, I’ll complete the required officiant portions of your marriage license.
I Handle the Required Copies
If I officiate your ceremony, I’ll handle returning the required copies to the issuing office.
South Carolina law requires two copies to be returned within 15 days.
Your Marriage is Recorded
The issuing office records the completed marriage documents after receiving the required copies.
You’ll receive the copy intended for the couple. Certified copies are available later from the appropriate records office.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW
Can We Apply in One County and Marry in Another?
Yes. A South Carolina marriage license can be used for a ceremony elsewhere within South Carolina.
Can We Apply Without Visiting a Courthouse?
In some counties, yes.
Charleston, Dorchester, and Berkeley counties currently offer processes that can avoid an in-person courthouse visit.
Can Out-of-State Couples Apply?
Yes. South Carolina residency is not required.
The wedding ceremony must take place within South Carolina.
Do We Need Witnesses?
No. South Carolina does not require ceremony witnesses to sign the marriage license.
Does Our Marriage License Expire?
Check the policy of the county issuing your license.
Expiration rules are not consistent across counties.
How Much Does a Marriage License Cost?
Fees vary by county.
Charleston County currently charges $70 plus a transaction fee for its online application.
ALREADY HAVE YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?
If you mainly need someone to complete the legal marriage requirements, there is a simple option.
My Legal Marriage Signing includes the signing, officiant requirements, and marriage license processing.
Legal Marriage Signing: $125
PLANNING A CEREMONY TOO?
Want more than the legal signing?
Choose from intimate elopements, personalized ceremonies, or larger weddings with rehearsal support.
Ready to plan your day?
Have your wedding date and location in mind?
Check my availability, ask your questions, and we’ll make sure your ceremony details are covered.
Same-day response whenever possible. No obligation.
Marriage license procedures vary by county and can change. This page provides general planning information, not legal advice.
Always confirm current requirements directly with the county issuing your marriage license.
Personal, meaningful ceremonies throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry.
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