Cost of the Marriage License
The exact cost of a marriage license in South Carolina is $70. This fee is standard across the state, though it may vary slightly by county due to additional processing fees that some offices might apply.
Additional Fees
While the base fee for a marriage license is $70, there can be additional fees depending on the county. Here are some potential extra costs:
Processing Fees: Some counties may charge a nominal processing fee. This can range from $5 to $15, depending on the location.
Blood Test Fees: South Carolina does not require blood tests for obtaining a marriage license.
Expedited Service Fees: If you require expedited processing of your marriage license, some counties may offer this service for an additional fee, typically around $10 to $20.
Where to Obtain a License
Marriage licenses in South Carolina can be obtained from county probate court offices. Below are some of the main locations, along with their contact details:
Charleston County Probate Court
Address: 100 Broad Street, Suite 469, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone Number: (843) 958-5183
Greenville County Probate Court
Address: 301 University Ridge, Suite 5600, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone Number: (864) 467-7170
Richland County Probate Court
Address: 1701 Main Street, Room 207, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone Number: (803) 576-1961
Horry County Probate Court
Address: 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526
Phone Number: (843) 915-5370
Lexington County Probate Court
Address: 205 East Main Street, Suite 134, Lexington, SC 29072
Phone Number: (803) 785-8324
Requirements for Obtaining a License
To obtain a marriage license in South Carolina, you must meet several requirements:
Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Individuals aged 16 or 17 can obtain a marriage license with parental consent.
Residency: There are no residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina.
Identification Documents: Both parties must present valid identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID.
Application Form: Complete the marriage license application form available at the probate court office or online.
Payment Methods
The accepted payment methods for a marriage license in South Carolina vary by county but generally include:
Cash
Check
Credit Card
It is advisable to check with the specific probate court office for their accepted payment methods.
Validity of the License
A marriage license in South Carolina is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. There is no waiting period, so couples can get married immediately after receiving their license.
Other Relevant Information
Premarital Counseling
While premarital counseling is not required in South Carolina, it is highly recommended. Various organizations and religious institutions offer counseling services. For couples interested in premarital counseling, resources are available through local churches, community centers, and licensed counselors.
Marriage Ceremony
To get married in South Carolina, you will need an officiant to perform the ceremony. This can be a religious officiant, a judge, or a notary public. After the ceremony, the officiant must sign the marriage license and return it to the probate court for recording.
Contact Information
For further information or specific queries, you can contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control:
Address: 2600 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone Number: (803) 898-3630
Conclusion
By understanding the process and requirements for obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your married life. Be sure to check with your local probate court for any specific details or updates related to marriage licenses in your county.
FAQs
How much does a South Carolina marriage license cost?
The cost of a marriage license in South Carolina varies by county, typically ranging from $50 to $95. It’s important to check with the local probate court where you plan to apply for specific fees. Some counties may accept only cash, so it’s advisable to confirm the payment method in advance.
What are the requirements to get married in South Carolina?
To get married in South Carolina, both parties must be at least 18 years old, though minors can marry with parental consent. Both individuals need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. There is no residency requirement, but a 24-hour waiting period exists between applying for the license and when it can be issued. No blood tests are required. Additionally, the license is valid only for ceremonies conducted within South Carolina.
Where do I get a marriage certificate in SC?
In South Carolina, you can obtain a marriage certificate from the probate court in the county where the marriage license was issued. After the ceremony, the officiant will file the marriage license with the court, and you can then request a certified copy of the marriage certificate. Some counties also offer online request forms for added convenience.