Online Marriage License Guide

Delaware Marriage License Online: What Couples Need to Know

Looking for a Delaware marriage license online? This Delaware marriage license online guide explains what couples need to know before applying through the Clerk of the Peace, also known as the Marriage Bureau. Delaware requires couples to obtain a marriage license at least 24 hours before the ceremony, the license is generally valid for 30 days, and the ceremony must take place in Delaware.

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Delaware license rules • Clerk of the Peace process • 24-hour waiting period • 30-day validity

Delaware marriage license online guide for couples

Can You Get a Delaware Marriage License Online?

Delaware allows couples to apply for a marriage license online, but the license is still issued through the Clerk of the Peace in the county Marriage Bureau. Delaware state guidance says a couple must appear together to apply for a marriage license.

The Delaware marriage license online process can be helpful for starting the application, but couples should still confirm the current county requirements for identity documents, prior-marriage documents, fees, appointment rules, and appearance requirements.

Delaware law requires couples to obtain the license at least 24 hours before the ceremony. A Delaware marriage license generally allows the couple to marry within 30 days from the date it is issued.

If you are searching for a Delaware marriage license online because you want a fully remote legal ceremony, compare Delaware’s Clerk of the Peace process with Distant Vows’ online marriage option for Delaware couples.

Delaware Marriage License Requirements

Requirements can vary by county, but Delaware couples should generally expect the following license rules.

Before relying on a Delaware marriage license online application or county page, confirm the current Marriage Bureau requirements for ID, fees, prior-marriage documents, probation or parole authorization, and ceremony timing.

Clerk of the Peace

Delaware marriage licenses are issued by the Clerk of the Peace in each county, also known as the Marriage Bureau.

Both Applicants Appear

Delaware state guidance says a couple must appear together to apply for a marriage license.

24-Hour Waiting Period

Delaware requires the marriage license to be obtained at least 24 hours before the ceremony.

30-Day Validity

A Delaware marriage license generally allows the couple to marry within 30 days from the date it is issued.

Delaware Ceremony Required

The ceremony must take place in Delaware for a Delaware marriage license to be used.

Resident and Non-Resident Fees

Delaware state guidance lists a $70 fee if either applicant is a Delaware resident and $120 if neither applicant is a Delaware resident.

How to Apply for a Delaware Marriage License

The exact process depends on the Delaware county, but this is the typical path couples should expect.

1

Choose the Delaware County Marriage Bureau

Start with the Clerk of the Peace / Marriage Bureau for the Delaware county where you plan to apply. County instructions, appointment rules, and contact details can vary.

2

Start the Online Application

Delaware state guidance links to an online marriage license application. Review the county’s instructions before relying on a Delaware marriage license online application.

3

Appear Together With Required Documents

Both applicants should be prepared to appear together with valid identification. If either applicant was previously married, an original or certified divorce, annulment, dissolution, or death certificate may be required.

4

Pay the Marriage License Fee

Delaware state guidance lists different fees for resident and non-resident couples. Confirm the current fee and accepted payment method before applying.

5

Wait at Least 24 Hours

Delaware requires the license to be obtained at least 24 hours before the ceremony. The Clerk of the Peace may be able to shorten the waiting period for good cause.

6

Have the Ceremony Within 30 Days

The ceremony must take place in Delaware within 30 days from the license date unless the time period is extended by the Clerk of the Peace for good cause.

Delaware Marriage License Timing

Timing is one of the biggest reasons couples search for a Delaware marriage license online. Delaware has a 24-hour waiting period and a 30-day license validity period, so couples should plan the application and ceremony dates carefully.

For couples comparing a Delaware marriage license online application with a fully online ceremony, the biggest difference is that Delaware licenses are still tied to Clerk of the Peace requirements and a ceremony within Delaware.

Requirement Delaware Marriage License Distant Vows Online Marriage Alternative
Application location Clerk of the Peace / Marriage Bureau. Delaware also provides an online application option. Online process for eligible couples through a live video ceremony.
Partner location A couple must appear together to apply for a Delaware marriage license. Partners can be in different states or countries if they can attend by live video.
Waiting period Delaware requires the license to be obtained at least 24 hours before the ceremony. Many couples complete the Distant Vows process within 2–5 days; same-day wedding ceremonies are available.
License validity A Delaware marriage license is generally valid for 30 days from issuance. Timeline depends on eligibility, license completion, ceremony availability, and document readiness.
Best for Couples who can complete the Delaware Marriage Bureau process and marry within Delaware. Long-distance, military, same-sex, or time-sensitive couples who need a legal online ceremony.

What You Need for a Delaware Marriage License

Basic Checklist

  • Valid identification for both applicants.
  • Required personal information for both applicants.
  • Parents’ birth names and birthplaces, if requested.
  • Original or certified divorce, annulment, dissolution, or death certificate, if applicable.
  • Special authorization if an applicant is on probation or parole.
  • Marriage license fee.
  • Delaware ceremony plan after the 24-hour waiting period and before the 30-day license period expires.

County Rules Matter

Delaware marriage licenses are issued through the Clerk of the Peace in each county. Before applying, check the Marriage Bureau’s current process for online applications, appointments, fees, accepted ID, prior-marriage documents, and ceremony rules.

If you are not sure whether the Delaware marriage license online process fits your situation, compare it with how to get married online in Delaware.

After the Delaware Ceremony

Before the ceremony can be lawfully performed, the marriage license must be delivered to the officiant. After the ceremony, the completed marriage record should be filed so the marriage can be recorded and certified copies can be requested.

Marriage Certificate

Certified copies are usually requested from the office that recorded the Delaware marriage.

Name Change

If you plan to change your name, read our guide on how to change your name after marriage.

Immigration

If the certificate will be used for a spouse visa or partner-based filing, read our guide on online marriage and immigration.

Apostille

If the certificate will be used outside the United States, you may need an apostille or legalization step.

When an Online Marriage May Be Easier

Some couples search for a Delaware marriage license online because they want a fully remote process. If your goal is to avoid travel, marry while in different locations, or complete a legal ceremony quickly, a Delaware license may not be the simplest path.

Long-Distance Couples

If you and your partner are in different states or countries, a live video ceremony may be more practical than coordinating Delaware travel and Marriage Bureau timing. Read more about whether online weddings are legal.

Military Couples

Deployment, PCS moves, limited leave, and paperwork deadlines can make a remote ceremony more convenient. Learn more about online marriage for military couples.

Same-Sex Couples

Same-sex couples may choose an online ceremony when travel, safety, timing, or family logistics make an in-person ceremony difficult. Read Distant Vows’ same-sex marriage online guide and this Dancing With Her article on getting legally married online.

Same-Day Needs

Delaware has a 24-hour waiting period unless the Clerk of the Peace shortens it for good cause. Distant Vows offers same-day wedding ceremonies for eligible couples.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I complete a Delaware marriage license online?

Delaware provides an online marriage license application option, but couples should confirm current county Marriage Bureau requirements before relying on a Delaware marriage license online process.

Who issues Delaware marriage licenses?

Delaware marriage licenses are issued by the Clerk of the Peace in each county, also known as the Marriage Bureau.

Do both applicants need to appear for a Delaware marriage license?

Delaware state guidance says a couple must appear together to apply for a marriage license.

Is there a waiting period for a Delaware marriage license?

Yes. Delaware requires couples to obtain the marriage license at least 24 hours before the ceremony, although the Clerk of the Peace may shorten the period for good cause.

How long is a Delaware marriage license valid?

A Delaware marriage license is generally valid for 30 days from the date it is issued.

Can Delaware couples get married online instead?

Yes. Eligible Delaware couples may be able to get legally married online through Distant Vows. Read our guide on how to get married online in Delaware.

Helpful Resources

Need a Legal Online Marriage Instead?

If the Delaware marriage license online process does not work for your timeline or location, Distant Vows helps eligible couples complete a legal online wedding ceremony with officiant coordination, witness support, certificate follow-up, and optional apostille assistance after the ceremony.

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