Massachusetts State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Massachusetts, also known as The Bay State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a social security number, valid photo ID and certified copy of their birth certificate when applying for a marriage license.  A medical certificate is required of both the bride and groom, and there is a three-day waiting period following the issuance of the license.  If necessary, the couple may request that a court waive this waiting period.  In some instances, such as when one is close to death or the bride is nearing the end of a pregnancy, the clerk may issue a marriage license immediately and without a court order if proof of the aforementioned is provided by way of a request from a physician or clergymen.  If either of the intended were previously married, some jurisdictions may enforce a 90-day waiting period from the date of the divorce being final. 

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Massachusetts must have a court order from either a probate court or district court in the area where the marriage license will be obtained. 

The state of Massachusetts does not have any residential requirements, which means you can exchange vows even if you are not a resident of the state.  Vacationers, former residents and all others are free to tie the knot in this seaside state.  Once granted, a marriage license is valid for 60 days.  Application and/or marriage license fees may vary by county, which means you must check with the local courthouse regarding the actual cost and acceptable payment methods.  The average fee for a marriage license is $4.00, but the state of Massachusetts permits individual towns and cities to determine their own fees, if any, above and beyond the initial cost of the license.  It is advisable that applicants have cash on hand in the event that credit cards are not accepted. 

Same sex marriage is permitted in the state of Massachusetts, but legal challenges may remain for those seeking a license.  For more information on same sex marriages, individuals are urged to consult with the county clerk in the area which the application for a marriage license will be submitted.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are not recognized in the state.  A wedding can be officiated by an ordained minister, clergyman and/or justice of the peace.  The governor may grant special one-time permission for an individual, such as a family friend or relative, to perform the ceremony. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the mayflower, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make Massachusetts a wonderful choice for an upcoming wedding. 

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice.  Marriage laws and requirements can change, which means that you should check with your county courthouse regarding the application process for a marriage license, laws, fees and other requirements. 

To obtain a copy of a Massachusetts marriage certificate, contact: Registry of Vital Records and Statistics, 150 Mount Vernon St., 1st Floor, Dorchester, MA 02125-3105.  The fee is $18.00 for in-person requests and $28.00 for mailed requests.     

Code of Massachusetts

Title III, Chapter 207 provides information on Massachusetts marriage laws.