How to Get Married in New Hampshire

Marriage License Summary

Issuing Office:

Town Clerk

Cost:

$45.00

Waiting Period:

3 days to receive

Expires in:

90 Days

License Return:

Before Expiration

Applying for the Marriage License

Any unmarried couple, both individuals at least 18 years old, can apply for a marriage license in New Hampshire. Same sex marriages are recognized.

To apply for a marriage license the couple must appear together, at a New Hampshire Town Clerk’s Office. This is the local government office that has jurisdiction over where the marriage will take place. Applicants must bring valid ID (driver’s license, birth certificate, etc.) to confirm their identities.

A New Hampshire Marriage License has a 3 day waiting period before it can be picked up, an additional 3 day waiting period before it can be completed, and is valid for 90 days.

It costs $45 to apply for the marriage license.

Completing and Returning the Marriage License

On the wedding day, either preceding or following the ceremony, the couple must present their marriage license to the minister, who must make sure that the license is valid, and that the couple’s information is accurate.

The minister then signs the license, ensuring that it bears any necesarry witness signatures. Once completed, the minister or the couple must return the license to the Town Clerk’s office within applicable deadlines.