Greenville Marriage License Records
Greenville is the largest city in the Upstate region of South Carolina. Couples who want to get married in Greenville apply for a license at the Greenville County Probate Court. The court is in the Greenville County Square complex on University Ridge. Staff there handle all marriage license forms, ID checks, and fee payments. Greenville has a strong network of wedding venues, chapels, and event planners that help couples plan their day. This guide covers the full process from start to finish so you know what to expect.
Greenville County Probate Court Office
The Marriage License Division is in Suite N-T100, 301 University Ridge, Greenville, SC 29601. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is closed on most major holidays. Both people must go to the court at the same time to apply.
You can reach the office by phone at 864-467-7571. You can also send questions by email to probatemarriage@greenvillecounty.org. The staff can tell you what to bring and how long the visit will take. Most visits last 20 to 40 minutes if your papers are in order.
The image below is from the City of Greenville website and shows local government resources for residents.
The Greenville County Square is the main hub for county services. It also houses the Register of Deeds, Tax Collector, and Assessor offices. Free and paid parking are both on site.
Greenville Marriage License Fees
The Greenville County Probate Court uses a tiered fee system. The cost depends on where you live. If one or both of you live in Greenville County, the fee is $45. If both of you live outside Greenville County but one of you lives in South Carolina, the fee is $75. If both of you come from out of state, the fee is $95.
The court also charges $6.75 for any corrections to the license after it is printed. A keepsake folder costs $2. A certified copy of the marriage certificate is $5.
Credit cards are accepted with a small processing fee on top. Call the office at 864-467-7571 to ask about other payment methods. Cash and money orders may also be options.
What to Bring to the Court
Both people need a valid photo ID. A state driver's license or passport will work. You also need your Social Security card. Do not bring a printout of your Social Security number. It must be the card itself.
If you were married before, bring your final divorce decree or a death certificate for the prior spouse. The clerk must see proof that the old marriage ended. Without this document, the court cannot process your form.
Anyone under 18 needs a parent or legal guardian at the counter. The parent signs a sworn consent form. The court also needs a birth certificate or other age proof for the minor. State law sets the minimum age at 16.
Greenville Waiting Period
South Carolina law requires a 24-hour wait after you file your form. You apply on one day and pick up the license the next day or later. This rule comes from Section 20-1-220 of the South Carolina Code. No judge or clerk can waive it.
The clock starts from the hour and date the court gets your signed form. If you file at 9 a.m. on a Wednesday, you can pick up the license after 9 a.m. on Thursday. Plan ahead if your wedding date is close. The Probate Court is only open on weekdays.
Ceremony Options in Greenville
Once you have your license, you need an officiant. South Carolina law limits who can lead a wedding. Under Section 20-1-20, the approved list includes ministers, rabbis, officers who can give oaths, and the chief or spiritual leader of a state-recognized Native American Indian group.
One thing to note is that Probate judges in Greenville County do not perform weddings. If you want a quick civil ceremony, you will need to find another officiant. Many couples use a local minister or a notary public who is also authorized under state law.
The following image is from the Simple Civics Greenville County website, which covers local government roles and services.
Events For You is a local service that helps couples with ceremony needs in the Greenville area. Their cost is $35 and they are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This can be a good choice for a simple, low-cost ceremony after you get your license.
Greenville Marriage Records
After the wedding, the officiant signs the certificate and sends it back to the Greenville County Probate Court. The court files it and sends a copy to the state vital records office. This creates a permanent record of the marriage.
If you need a certified copy later, contact the Probate Court at 864-467-7571 or email probatemarriage@greenvillecounty.org. You will need the full names of both spouses and the date of the marriage. A certified copy costs $5.
You can also request copies from the South Carolina Department of Public Health for marriages from July 1950 through December 2023. The state charges $12 by mail or $17 for rush service.
Premarital Course Tax Credit
South Carolina offers a one-time $50 state income tax credit if you complete a premarital prep course. The course must be at least six hours long. A licensed counselor or active clergy member must lead it. Both people must take the course together within 12 months before they apply for the license.
Bring your course certificate to the Greenville County Probate Court when you file. The court notes it on your license. This credit is in Section 20-1-230 of the state code.
Common Questions for Greenville
Can I apply online? The Greenville County Probate Court requires both people to appear in person. There is no online option for the marriage license form at this time.
Do I need to live in Greenville? No. South Carolina has no residency rule for marriage licenses. Anyone can apply here. Your fee will differ based on where you live.
Will a Probate judge marry us? No. Probate judges in Greenville County do not perform weddings. You must find an approved officiant on your own.
Is the license valid outside Greenville? Yes. A Greenville County marriage license works at any ceremony site in South Carolina. You can wed anywhere in the state.
Greenville County Marriage License Records
Greenville is part of Greenville County. The Probate Court handles all marriage license work for every city and town in the county. For full details on county rules, fees, and contact info, visit the Greenville County marriage license page.