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.
If you want to get married in Massachusetts, you'll have to get a marriage license first. Here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a marriage license in the Bay State.
You and your future partner both have to appear at the city or town's Clerk's Office. Ready for a marriage license? Not so fast. You first have to fill out out an application called a "Notice of Intention to Marry." You'll both need a valid form of identification, your Social Security numbers, and the application fee of $50. You must come in person -- these forms can't be processed by mail. There is a three-day waiting period to get the actual marriage license.
If either person was previously married, he or she must show certified documents on how previous marriage ended such as divorce, annulment, or death.
Also, you don't have to have a physical examination or get a blood test to receive a marriage license in Massachusetts.
The following table highlights the main provisions of Massachusetts marriage license laws. See Marriage Laws Overview, prenuptial agreements, Tips for Marriage, and Marriage FAQs for more information.
| Code Section | M.G.L. Chapter 207 et seq |
| Where to Obtain a License | City or town Clerk's office |
| Age Requirements | Both parties must be at least 18 years of age. |
| Residency Requirement | None |
| Identification Requirements | Valid driver's license or state-issued identification, or passport |
| Same Sex Marriage | Yes |
| Blood Test Requirement | No |
| Fees | Varies by county, but usually around $50. |
| How Long is the License Valid? | 60 days from the date of issuance. |
| Who Can Preside Over the Ceremony? | Any ordained ministers or clergymen, and justices of the peace may perform weddings in Massachusetts.A non-minister or non-justice of the peace (such as a relative of family friend) may receive from the Governor, for a fee, special one-time permission to perform a marriage. |
| Prior Marriage? | If you've been married before, you may need to present your divorce decree or annulment papers to the clerk's office. |
| Waiting Period | 3 calendar (three) days |
| Witnesses | None required |
| Where to Order Copies of Marriage/Divorce Decree | Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics |
| What Information Do I Need Before Applying for a Marriage Intention? | Couples should be prepared to provide information such as:
|
Because marriage laws can sometimes get complicated, it may also be a good idea to consult an experienced family law attorney if you have questions about your specific situation.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored family law advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.