A marriage license is valid for 60 days and is accepted anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia. You may apply for a marriage license at any Clerk of the Circuit Court's office in the Commonwealth if you are getting married in Virginia. Effective July 1, 2024, the minimum age to get married in Virginia is 18 years old.

Applying for a Marriage License

1. Both parties must visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court's office to complete a marriage license. A $32.50 (plus postage) license fee is required and includes one certified copy.
   
   
2. Both parties must bring a photo ID. 
   
   
3. If you have been married before, you must first obtain a valid divorce in the previous marriage to marry again. 
   
   
4. To complete the application, both parties will be required to list basic identifying information, including your name, address, city, state and zip code, as well as your Social Security number; place and date of birth; and full names of parents, including mother's maiden name.
   
   
5. Once the application process is complete, copies of the license and a return envelope will be provided to you for the officiant.
   
   
6. After the wedding, the officiant must sign and mail the license to the Clerk's office.

Wedding Officiant

The Clerk’s office does not perform marriages.  The ceremony must be performed by a license wedding officiant or qualified minister who is authorized by a circuit court in Virginia, any judge or justice of a court of record, or other person as set forth in §20-25.

One-Time Civil Celebrant

Individuals wanting to perform a wedding ceremony in the Commonwealth of Virginia must receive authorization from the court, prior to performing the ceremony, pursuant to Virginia Code §20-25. Authorization will be on a one-time basis only. Authorization through the Bedford County Circuit Court Clerk's Office is only granted for couples with a Virginia-issued marriage license.

The ceremony may be held anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The marriage celebrant must be a resident of Bedford to apply.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age or older
• Must never have been convicted of a felony
• $61.00 non-refundable filing fee and petition required
• Upon approval, a $500.00 bond with surety must be filed prior to the ceremony

Marriage Resources

• FAQs: A Guide to Marriage in Virginia