District of Columbia Marriage License Requirements
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
From the perfect flowers to the quintessential bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen suits, the items on a marriage to-do list can be overwhelming. However, the most important item on that list is a properly obtained marriage license. District of Columbia marriage license requirements state how old each party must be, how many days before the wedding that the marriage license must be obtained, and the specific terms that must be on a marriage license form in order to be valid. This is a quick summary of the marriage license and blood test requirements in the District of Columbia.
Fulfilling District of Columbia Marriage License Requirements: Overview
Under the district's marriage license requirements, marriage is the legally recognized union of two persons. Any person may enter into a marriage in the District of Columbia with any another person, regardless of gender. While the age of the parties interested in obtaining a marriage license is an important requirement, premarital blood testing is no longer an issue in the District of Columbia.
The following table outlines the specifics of marriage license and blood test requirements in the District of Columbia.
Code Sections | District of Columbia Official Code §46-4: Marriage |
Marriage License Requirements |
According to D.C. marriage license regulations, a license to marry will not be issued until three days have past from the date of application of the license. A marriage license will not be issued if:
If any person intending to marry is under the age of 18 and has not been previously married, the Clerk will not issue a license unless a parent or guardian consents to the marriage. This consent can be done either personally to the Clerk, or by a written instrument attested by a witness and that is satisfactory to the Clerk. In 2008, District of Columbia repealed premarital blood-test requirements. |
Form of Marriage License |
Licenses to perform the marriage ceremony must be addressed to some particular minister, magistrate, or other person authorized to perform or witness the marriage ceremony. The form should state these specific terms. |
Voided Marriages |
Under District of Columbia marriage licenses requirements, a marriage is considered void if:
|
If you need legal assistance with properly obtaining a marriage license, you can contact a District of Columbia family law lawyer through FindLaw. Visit FindLaw's sections on marriage requirement basics and marriage law for more articles and information on this topic.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Family law matters are often complex and require a lawyer
- Lawyers can protect your rights and seek the best outcome
Get tailored family law advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life

Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.