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Ceremony Information: License, Certificate and More...
Where to get a license
You may obtain a license from your local town clerk. You will need proof of identification and you will need to provide your social security number.
License fees:
It will cost you between $4 and $50 to get married in Massachusetts. Each Massachusetts community can set their own fees. For example, the marriage license fee in Boston is currently $50.
Other Tests:
None. Massachusetts state lawmakers repealed the law requiring blood tests late in 2004. It went into effect on January 28, 2005.
Proxy Marriages:
No. However, if one of you is in the military, or is incarcerated, the other may make application for the marriage license for both of you.
Cousin Marriages:
Allowed.
Common Law Marriages:
Massachusetts does not recognize common law marriages.
Under 18:
If you are under 18 years old, you will need a court order from either a probate court or district court in the locale where you live in order to apply for a marriage license.
Witnesses:
Witnesses are not required in Massachusetts.
Miscellaneous:
There is a 3-day waiting period before you may obtain the license, and it is valid for 30 days.
To Obtain a Copy of Your Marriage Certificate:
Registry of Vital Records and Statistics
Department of Public Health
150 Mt. Vernon Street
Boston, MA 02125-3105
(617) 740-2600
You have the option of making your request online.
Changing Your Name?
The guidelines above also apply for same sex couples who reside or intend to reside in Massachusetts.
Rhode Island couples may also marry in Massachusetts; they must obtain a Massachusetts wedding license.
PLEASE NOTE:
State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.
State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.