Applying for A Marriage License in Sussex County
- Both applicants must appear together when applying for a marriage license. The marriage license may be obtained during the hours
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. - Each applicant is required to show a valid photo identification. The identification may be a driver’s license, a State issued identification card, a passport or a military identification.
- You must be at least eighteen years of age to apply for a marriage license. If either applicant is under the age of eighteen, they are considered minors. Minors must petition Family Court for authorization to marry. You can call (302) 856-5601 for guidance and information.
- Applicants may not be related to each other.
- Applicants may not be of the same sex.
- Applicants must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- No blood test is required.
- If a female applicant is divorced and legally reclaimed her maiden name, we require the original, true copy or certified copy of the name change court papers. A photocopy is not acceptable.
- If either applicant has been married and the marriage was terminated by divorce, we require the last divorce decree. It must be signed by a Judge and bear a seal indicating that it is the original, true copy or certified copy. A photocopy is not acceptable.
- If either applicant has been married and the marriage was terminated by death, we require the original, true copy or certified copy of the death certificate. A photocopy is not acceptable.
- If either applicant is on probation or parole, they must have written permission to marry from their probation or parole officer.
- If either applicant requires an interpreter, they must provide their own interpreter. The interpreter must be at least eighteen years of age.
- The marriage license is valid for 30 days. It must be used in that time period. It is only valid in the State of Delaware.
- After the license is issued, there is a 24-hour waiting period for all applicants. This waiting period applies to residents as well as non-residents.
- Please allow at least 20 minutes for the marriage application process.
Fee Schedule
The service fees are reflected on the following chart.
Fees are due when marriage licenses are issued, certified copies of marriage licenses are provided or Memorable Marriage or renewal ceremonies are scheduled.
| Service | Fee |
| Marriage License for Delaware Residents | $50.00 |
| Marriage License for non-Delaware Residents | $100.00 |
| Certified Copy of a Marriage License | $25.00 |
