Why You Need a Marriage License Before the Ceremony
If you’re getting married in Maryland, Washington, DC, or Virginia, here’s what you need to know:
You must have your marriage license issued before your ceremony takes place.
That’s the law.
As a wedding officiant serving MD, DC, and VA, I’ve worked with many couples who were misinformed—either by something they read online or assumptions based on how things work elsewhere.
But in this region, the laws are specific. And if you don’t follow them, your ceremony won’t be legally recognized.
Why a Marriage License Is Required
- No legal ceremony can take place without a state or district issued marriage license
- Your officiant can’t perform a legal marriage or pronounce you married unless you’ve provided the complete marriage license package issued by the court
- If you move forward without a license, your ceremony becomes a non-binding commitment event, not a legal marriage
This can create major complications—not only for you but for the officiant as well.
For example, in Maryland, the license is only valid in the county where it was issued. If your officiant travels to your ceremony location without knowing the license wasn’t ready, they may have to come back another day—or you could be forced to go to the courthouse to complete the marriage legally.
Why the Confusion?
Some couples think they can “get married now and apply later.” That misconception often comes from how weddings are portrayed in pop culture—or how things seem to work in states with 24/7 marriage license bureaus.
But that’s not how it works in MD, DC, or VA.
- In Washington, DC and Virginia, you can get your license the same day if you apply in person
- In Maryland, wait time is 48-hours and procedures vary by county and city
- None of these jurisdictions allow a ceremony to happen before the license is issued
What If You Don’t Have Your License Yet?
If your license isn’t ready, you have two options:
- Wait until it’s issued before having your ceremony
- Hold a symbolic (non-legal) ceremony and make sure everyone involved knows it’s not official
As a wedding officiant, I cannot backdate a marriage document—and no legitimate professional should.
But I’m happy to guide you through the legal process and help you create a ceremony that honors both your love and the law.
✅ Final Word
If you’re planning a wedding in Maryland, Washington, DC, or Virginia, be sure to secure your marriage license at least 30 days before your event. If you’re coming from out of town, obtain it as early as possible.
Then let’s build a ceremony that reflects your values, protects your union, and stands up legally.
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