Marriage & Civil Union Licenses

The Clerk of the Peace witnesses County documents; attends all formal Levy Court Meetings; records all acts as custodian for the Minutes of the Levy Court Meetings; advertises and posts County ordinances; countersigns warrants drawn on County funds. Issues marriage licenses; and performs marriage ceremonies.

(** Licenses are issued between the hours of 8:00am - 4:15pm M-F)

Marriage License Application Guidelines:

  • Both parties must appear together Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
  • A third-party translator is required if one party doesn't speak English; the third-party translator must be at least 18 years old and have proper identification.
  • Residency/Waiting: Apply for the license at least 24 hours before the ceremony, regardless of residency.
  • Validity: The Delaware license is valid for 30 days from the issue date and the ceremony must take place within the state.
  • Required Identification: A valid DMV issued ID/Driver’s license, Passport, or Military ID with date of birth and proof of address is necessary.
  • Additional Documentation: The Clerk of the Peace may request extra documentation such as a birth certificate or social security card for ID verification.
  • Previous Marital Status: Bring original or certified final divorce/annulment decree or certified death certificate if applicable. Name change court documents are needed if you've taken back a former name.
  • Probation or Parole: An original permission letter from the Probation Officer is required.
  • Minors: Minors are not allowed to marry in Delaware. No one under the age of 18 may apply for a marriage license. 
  • License Fee: Delaware residents pay a $70 total license fee, non-residents pay a $120 (Cash Only) total license fee.
  • Allow 15-20 minutes for the application process.

Ceremony Fees for In-State Residents       

M-F Regular Hours      $50

M-F After Hours           $75                                                   

Saturday                       $100                                       

Out of Office                 $100                                       

Ceremony Fees for non-Delaware Residents

M-F Regular Hours       $100

M-F After Hours            $125                                                         

Saturday                        $150      

Out of Office                  $100   

*THIS OFFICE ACCEPTS CASH ONLY

Note: Couples marrying in Kent County should ensure the officiant is authorized to perform the ceremony.

Questions? Contact Clerk of the Peace at Clerk@kentcountyde.gov, or call Phone: 302-744-2346.

Apply Now!

 

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