To get married in Pennsylvania, the main steps are:
- Both partners must apply in person together for a marriage license at a County Register of Wills or Marriage License Bureau office. Each applicant must be at least 18 years old and provide valid photo identification and their Social Security number (or passport if no SSN).
- There is a marriage license fee that varies by county, often around $70-$80, and it must be paid in cash in some counties.
- A 3-day waiting period usually applies after applying for the license before the marriage can take place.
- The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date it becomes effective.
- The ceremony can be conducted by an authorized officiant such as a religious representative or a district justice.
- The wedding can occur anywhere within Pennsylvania using the marriage license issued by any county.
- Prohibited are marriages between close blood relatives including first cousins.
Also some counties offer online applications but both partners usually must appear in person for finalizing the license. After the ceremony, the officiant files the marriage certificate with the issuing county to make it official. In summary, obtain a marriage license together in any PA county with proper ID, wait 3 days, then get married within 60 days with an authorized officiant at any place in Pennsylvania.