Delaware County marriage license services are managed exclusively through the Register of Wills office in Media, Pennsylvania. Couples planning to wed must apply between three and sixty days before their ceremony date. The process requires an appointment, proper identification, and specific documentation. This resource provides everything needed to secure a marriage license in Delaware County, PA, including fees, required documents, virtual options, and certified copy procedures.
How to Apply for a Delaware County Marriage License
All marriage license applications in Delaware County must be scheduled by calling 610‑891‑4416 during business hours—Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If no staff member is available, leave a voice message with your full name, contact number, and preferred appointment time. A clerk will return your call within one business day. Walk-in visits are not accepted; appointments are mandatory for all license issuances.
Both parties must appear together during the appointment unless a virtual option is requested. Required documents include a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport), proof of current residency (like a utility bill or lease agreement), and legal proof of divorce or death if either party was previously married. All documents must be original or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted.
Virtual Marriage License Appointments in Delaware County
Delaware County offers virtual marriage license appointments for couples who cannot appear in person. To request this service, email the Register of Wills with the subject line “Virtual Marriage Appointment Request.” Include scanned copies of both applicants’ IDs, proof of residency, and any divorce or death certificates. After document verification, a secure video link is sent for the interview.
During the video call, both parties must appear on camera, confirm their identities, and electronically sign the license application. Once completed, the physical marriage license is mailed to the address provided within three business days. This option is ideal for military personnel, out-of-state couples, or those with mobility challenges.
Marriage License Fees and Payment Options
The standard fee for a Delaware County marriage license is $90 for Pennsylvania residents. Non-resident couples pay $120. Payments are accepted in cash, check, or major credit cards at the time of the appointment. Personal checks must be made payable to “Delaware County Register of Wills.” No refunds are issued once the license is processed, even if the wedding is canceled.
There is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period after license issuance before the ceremony can take place. The license remains valid for 60 days from the date of issue. If the wedding does not occur within this window, a new application and fee are required.
Required Documents Checklist
- Valid government-issued photo ID for both applicants (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Proof of current Delaware County or Pennsylvania residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days)
- Certified divorce decree or death certificate if either party was previously married
- Completed marriage license application (provided at appointment or via email for virtual requests)
- Payment for license fee ($90 for residents, $120 for non-residents)
Obtaining Certified Copies of Marriage Records
Certified copies of Delaware County marriage licenses can be requested after the ceremony is completed and recorded. Requests must include the full names of both spouses, the exact date of marriage, and the purpose of the request (such as for Social Security or insurance). A notarized statement confirming the requester’s relationship to the couple is required.
Applications can be submitted in person at the Register of Wills office or by mail. Mailed requests must include a completed form, a self-addressed stamped envelope, and a check for the $25 processing fee. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days. Expedited service is not available.
Marriage Licenses for Non-Pennsylvania Residents
Couples where neither party lives in Pennsylvania may still obtain a Delaware County marriage license if they plan to marry within the county. Non-residents must pay the higher $120 fee and provide valid photo IDs from their home state. Proof of residency is waived, but both parties must appear for the appointment or virtual interview.
It is recommended that non-resident couples verify their home state’s recognition of Pennsylvania-issued licenses. Most states accept out-of-state licenses, but some require additional documentation or registration upon return.
Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware County Marriage Licenses
Many couples have similar questions about timing, documentation, and procedures. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official county policies and recent updates.
Can I apply for a marriage license more than 60 days before my wedding?
No. Delaware County strictly prohibits issuing marriage licenses more than 60 days before the ceremony date. Applications submitted earlier will be rejected. The earliest you can apply is exactly 60 days prior. This rule ensures licenses remain valid and reduces administrative errors.
What happens if my wedding is postponed after getting the license?
If your wedding is delayed beyond the 60-day validity period, the license expires automatically. You must reapply, pay the full fee again, and schedule a new appointment. There are no extensions or grace periods. Plan your ceremony date carefully to avoid extra costs.
Do both parties need to be present for the appointment?
Yes, both applicants must appear together unless using the virtual option. The law requires both signatures and identity verification. Exceptions are only granted for active-duty military personnel with proper documentation. Absent applicants risk license denial.
Can I use a birth certificate instead of a photo ID?
No. A government-issued photo ID is mandatory. Birth certificates alone do not meet identification requirements. Acceptable IDs include driver’s licenses, state IDs, passports, or military IDs. Expired IDs are not accepted—documents must be current.
Is there a blood test requirement in Delaware County?
No. Pennsylvania eliminated mandatory blood tests for marriage licenses in 1986. No medical exams, lab work, or health forms are needed. The process focuses solely on identity, residency, and legal marital status verification.
How long does it take to receive a certified copy after the wedding?
Certified copies are typically available 7 to 14 business days after the officiant submits the signed license to the Register of Wills. Delays may occur during peak wedding seasons. Call ahead to confirm processing status before submitting a request.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Delaware County Register of Wills is located at 201 W. Front Street, Media, PA 19063. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 610‑891‑4416. For virtual requests, email marriage@delcopa.gov with all required documents attached.
Staff respond to voicemails and emails within one business day. Plan ahead—appointments fill quickly, especially in spring and summer months. Arrive 15 minutes early for in-person visits with all documents ready.
Important Legal Notes and Restrictions
Marriage licenses in Delaware County cannot be issued to individuals under 18 without court approval. Minors aged 16 or 17 may apply with written consent from both parents and a judge’s order. Same-sex marriages are fully recognized and processed under the same rules as opposite-sex unions.
Cousins may marry in Pennsylvania, but siblings, parents and children, and grandparents and grandchildren are prohibited by law. Attempting to obtain a license under false pretenses may result in criminal charges for fraud.
After the Ceremony: Recording Your Marriage
The officiant performing your wedding must return the signed marriage license to the Register of Wills within 10 days. Failure to do so delays the creation of your official marriage record. Couples should confirm submission with their officiant before the ceremony date.
Once recorded, the marriage becomes a public record. Certified copies are necessary for name changes, insurance updates, and legal documentation. Keep your license safe—it is the only proof of your legal union until the certificate is issued.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too early (more than 60 days before the wedding)
- Forgetting to bring both forms of ID or proof of residency
- Using expired or photocopied documents
- Assuming walk-in appointments are available
- Not confirming the officiant will file the license promptly
Resources for Additional Help
For questions not covered here, contact the Delaware County Register of Wills directly. Staff can clarify document requirements, explain fee structures, and assist with special circumstances. Avoid third-party websites that charge extra fees for basic information freely available from the county.
Official website: delcopa.gov/row/marriage Phone: 610‑891‑4416 Email: marriage@delcopa.gov Address: 201 W. Front Street, Media, PA 19063
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below are detailed answers to the most pressing questions about Delaware County marriage licenses, based on current policies and real applicant experiences.
What is the exact process for getting a Delaware County marriage license?
Start by calling 610‑891‑4416 to schedule an appointment. Both parties must appear with valid photo IDs, proof of residency, and any divorce or death certificates. Pay the $90 fee (or $120 for non-residents). After a brief interview, the license is issued. There is a 24-hour waiting period before the ceremony. The license is valid for 60 days. Virtual appointments are available by emailing scanned documents and completing a video interview. Certified copies cost $25 and require a notarized request.
Can I get married the same day I apply for the license?
No. Pennsylvania law requires a 24-hour waiting period after license issuance. Even if you apply at 8 a.m., the earliest your ceremony can occur is 8 a.m. the next day. This rule applies to all couples, regardless of residency. Same-day weddings are only possible if you obtained the license the day before. Plan your timeline carefully to avoid disappointment.
What documents prove residency in Delaware County?
Acceptable proof includes a current utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or voter registration card showing a Delaware County address. Documents must be dated within the last 30 days. Digital copies on a phone are not accepted—only physical or certified digital prints. If you recently moved, bring a change-of-address form from the post office or DMV.
How do I request a certified copy if I lost my marriage license?
Submit a written request to the Register of Wills with the full names of both spouses, marriage date, and your relationship to them. Include a $25 check and a self-addressed stamped envelope. The request must be notarized. Processing takes up to 10 days. If you’re not a spouse or direct relative, you’ll need court approval to access the record.
Are there discounts for military members or seniors?
No. Delaware County does not offer reduced fees for military personnel, veterans, or seniors. All applicants pay the standard $90 (residents) or $120 (non-residents). However, active-duty military members stationed outside Pennsylvania may use the virtual appointment option without penalty. Bring your military ID to verify status.
Can a friend or family member pick up my license for me?
No. Both applicants must be present during the appointment or virtual interview. The law requires personal appearance for identity verification and signature collection. Power of attorney or proxy requests are not accepted. If one party is deployed, contact the office in advance—special accommodations may be possible with military orders.
What if my divorce was finalized in another state?
You must provide a certified copy of the final divorce decree from the issuing state. The document must include the judge’s signature and court seal. Translated documents require a certified English translation. If the divorce is pending, you cannot obtain a marriage license until it is officially granted.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Delaware County Register of Wills website or call their office directly. Policies may change, and third-party sites often provide outdated details.