How to Apply for a South Carolina Marriage License

Introduction

• Getting married in South Carolina is simple, and you don’t have to be a resident!

  • You must obtain a valid SC marriage license, which can be issued by any SC Probate Court.

    
    

How to Apply

IN PERSON

Charleston County Probate Marriage License Division. 

100 Broad Street, Suite 469, Charleston, SC 29401

Phone: (843) 958-5183

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Application Process

• Both applicants must appear together and file a written application

• The application must include the full names, ages, and places of residence of both applicants

• Both applicants must sign the application and it must be notarized

• There is a 24-hour waiting period after applying before the license can be picked up

Requirements 

• Applicants must provide an accepted form of identification

• Applicants must provide proof of their social security number

• Applicants must pay a non-refundable fee

  
  

Richland County

• No In Person Application

  
  

ONLINE APPLICATION

• Charleston County Marriage License | Fee: $70 https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/probate/marriage-license.php#online-marriage-license-applicationcharlestoncounty.org/departments/probate/marriage-license.php#online-marriage-license-application

• Richland County Marriage License | Fee:$45.24: https://www7.richlandcountysc.gov/MarriageLicenseOnline/default.aspx

Important Requirements & Timeline

• 24-Hour Waiting Period: Ater applying, you must wait at least 24 hours before picking up your license.

  • Example Scenario: If you apply on Monday at 10:00 AM, you can pick up your license anytime after 10:00 AM on Tuesday.

    
    

  • If you apply on Friday, your license will be available on Monday—plan accordingly if you’re eloping over the weekend!

Planning Tips

• Scheduling the Ceremony: Consider scheduling your ceremony post-approval of the marriage license.

What South Carolina Doesn’t Require

• No Blood Tests

• No Marriage Counseling

• No Witnesses Required

• No Rings Necessary

Conclusion

• Getting married in South Carolina is easy, romantic, and unforgettable! No matter where you're from, you can say "I do" in one of the most beautiful places in the South. With no residency, blood tests, or witnesses required — it’s all about your love, your moment, your way.

  
  

• Keep it simple, focus on each other, and let the joy of your special day shine. We’ll take care of the rest!

  
  

• Ready to take the next step? Start your marriage license application today!