Marion County Marriage License
The Marion County Probate Court is the local office that issues marriage licenses in Marion County, South Carolina. This court sits at the Marion County Courthouse and takes care of all license requests for the area. Both locals and out-of-state couples can file a marriage license application here. Marion County marriage license records date back to 1911. Staff at the court will help you with the forms and let you know what to bring. The Probate Court also keeps certified copies on file for those who need a copy of their marriage certificate at a later date. If you plan to marry in South Carolina, this is a good place to start.
Getting a Marion County Marriage License
Both people must go to the Marion County Probate Court in person. You cannot send one person on your behalf. Bring a valid photo ID. A driver's license or passport works. You also need your Social Security card.
At the court, both parties fill out a written application. You sign the form in front of staff. South Carolina law sets a 24-hour wait once the form is on file. Under Section 20-1-220 of the South Carolina Code, the court cannot give you the license until at least one full day has passed from the time the form was filed.
Once the wait is done, go back to pick up your license. A Marion County marriage license is good for use at any spot in South Carolina.
Marion County License Requirements
State law is clear on who can get a marriage license. Both people must be at least 16 years old. If one or both are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign a sworn statement of consent. The court will ask for a birth certificate or other proof of age for a minor. These rules are set by Section 20-1-250 of the South Carolina Code.
There is no blood test. There is no rule that says you must live in the county or the state. Couples from out of state can apply at the Marion County Probate Court with no extra steps. Bring your photo ID and Social Security card. If you had a prior marriage, bring your final divorce decree or a death certificate for the prior spouse.
Officiant Rules for Marion County
After you get the license, you still need a person to lead the wedding. South Carolina law limits who may do this. Under Section 20-1-20, only these people can officiate:
- Ministers of the Gospel
- Jewish rabbis
- Officers who may give oaths in South Carolina
- A chief or spiritual leader of a Native American Indian group that the state has recognized
The person who leads the ceremony must sign the marriage certificate. They then send it back to the Marion County Probate Court for recording.
Marion County Marriage Records
The Probate Court in Marion County has marriage records from 1911 to the present. If you need a certified copy, reach out to the court. You will need to show ID and give the names on the record along with the date of the marriage.
The image below is from the South Carolina Code of Laws, which sets the rules for marriage licenses across all counties in the state, including Marion County.
For marriages from July 1950 through December 2023, you may also ask the South Carolina Department of Public Health in Columbia for a copy. The state office charges a $12 search fee by mail or $17 for a faster request.
Fees and Payment in Marion County
State law adds a $20 fee on top of the base cost for each marriage license. This goes to the Domestic Violence Fund under Section 20-1-375 of the South Carolina Code. The total cost may vary, so call the Marion County Probate Court to check the current fee.
Most courts take cash. Some also take money orders or checks. Credit card use depends on the office. Call ahead or check the Marion County website for the most recent payment options.
Premarital Course Tax Credit
South Carolina gives a one-time $50 state income tax credit to couples who complete a qualifying premarital preparation course. The course must be at least six hours. It can be taught by a licensed counselor or a member of the clergy. Both people must take it together, not on their own. You must finish the course within 12 months of filing your marriage license application.
Bring proof of the course when you apply at the Marion County Probate Court. The court will note it on the license. This credit is laid out in Section 20-1-230 of the South Carolina Code of Laws.
State Vital Records for Marion County
The screenshot below is from the South Carolina Department of Public Health vital records page, which gives details on how to request copies of marriage certificates held at the state level.
After a wedding, the officiant returns the signed certificate to the Probate Court. The court records it and sends a copy to the South Carolina Division of Vital Records. This process is required under Section 20-1-340 of state law. It creates a central record of every marriage in the state.
If you are looking into family history, the state archives may hold older Marion County records. The Probate Court can also help with local searches.
Common Questions About Marion Licenses
Can you apply online? No. Both people must go to the Marion County Probate Court in person. There is no way to file by mail or phone.
The 24-hour wait is set by state law. It cannot be waived. Apply at least one business day before your wedding. The clock starts from the hour the court gets your form.
Does a Marion County license work in other states? The license is only valid for weddings held in South Carolina. But a marriage done under a valid South Carolina license is recognized in all 50 states. If you lose your certificate, you can get a new certified copy from the Probate Court or the state vital records office in Columbia.