Laurens County Marriage License Probate Court
The Laurens County Probate Court is the office that handles marriage license requests in Laurens County, South Carolina. Judge Kaye W. Fridy leads this court. The court aims to give quality and reliable help to the public and fair treatment to all who come through its doors. It also works to keep a good work space for its staff. Couples who plan to wed can go to the Probate Court to file for a license. The court issues marriage licenses and certified copies of those licenses. Records go back to 1911. Both locals and visitors are welcome to apply.
How to Get a Laurens County License
Both people must show up at the Laurens County Probate Court in person. One person alone is not enough. Bring a valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. Your Social Security card is also required.
The staff will give you a form. Both of you fill it out and sign it right there. Then the 24-hour wait starts. This is a state law. You cannot get the license the same day you apply.
Under Section 20-1-220 of the South Carolina Code, the form must be on file for at least one full day. After the wait, come back. The clerk hands you the license. It works for any ceremony held in South Carolina.
Laurens County Marriage Requirements
Both people must be at least 16 years old. If one is under 18, a parent must give sworn consent. The court will ask for proof of age. A birth certificate is best for this.
South Carolina does not ask for a blood test. You do not have to live in Laurens County to apply. Pairs from out of state can get a license here with no problem. Just bring your ID and Social Security card. Had a prior marriage? Bring the final divorce papers or a death certificate for the former spouse. These rules come from Section 20-1-250 of the state code.
Laurens County Ceremony Officials
A valid marriage license is just one part. You also need the right person to lead the rites. South Carolina law limits who can do this. Under Section 20-1-20, these people can officiate:
- Ministers of the Gospel
- Jewish rabbis
- Officers who may give oaths in the state
- Chief or spiritual leader of a state-recognized Native American Indian group
The person who leads the rites signs the marriage certificate. That signed form goes back to the Laurens County Probate Court for filing.
Marriage Records in Laurens County
The Laurens County Probate Court keeps records from 1911 to the present. If you need a certified copy, reach out to the court. Have your ID ready. You will need to give the names on the record and the date of the event.
The image below is from the Laurens County government website, which shows local court and service details for Laurens County.
For marriages that took place from July 1950 through December 2023, you can also write to the South Carolina Department of Public Health in Columbia. The state office charges $12 by mail or $17 for a faster search.
Laurens License Fees and Payment
On top of the base fee, state law adds $20 for the Domestic Violence Fund under Section 20-1-375. The full amount can vary. Call the Laurens County Probate Court to check.
Cash is taken at most courts. Some take money orders. Ask about other ways to pay when you call or visit the Laurens County Probate Court page. Keep the 24-hour wait in mind. You will make two trips to the court.
Premarital Preparation Course Credit
The state gives a one-time $50 tax credit to pairs who take a prep course before the wedding. The course is at least six hours long. It must be taught by a licensed counselor or a member of the clergy. Both people take the class at the same time. You must finish it within 12 months of your application date.
Bring proof to the Laurens County Probate Court. The staff will note it on your license. See Section 20-1-230 of the South Carolina Code for full details.
State Records for Laurens Marriages
After a wedding, the officiant must return the signed certificate to the Probate Court. The court records it and sends one copy to the South Carolina Division of Vital Records. This is the law under Section 20-1-340. It makes sure every marriage in the state has a central record.
For family history, old Laurens County records may also be at the state archives. The local Probate Court can help you search through its files too.
Common Questions for Laurens County
Can you apply online? No. Both must go in person. There is no web form, mail form, or phone option at the Laurens County Probate Court.
Can the wait be skipped? No. The 24-hour rule is state law. Plan to apply at least one day before you need the license. The clock starts the moment the court takes your form.
Does the license work in all states? The license is for South Carolina use only. But a marriage done with a valid South Carolina license is recognized across the country. Lost your certificate? Ask the Laurens County Probate Court or the state office in Columbia for a new certified copy.