New Hampshire State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in New Hampshire, also known as The Granite State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a social security number, along with a valid photo ID, which can include a driver’s license, DMV identification card, passport, resident alien card, military identification, and a certified/original birth certificate when applying for a marriage license.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, but there is a three-day waiting period.  In some cases, a probate judge or superior court justice may waive the waiting period.  The fee for this request is $25.00.  If either of the intended were previously married, a copy of the divorce decree or former spouse’s death certificate must be provided. 

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of New Hampshire must be residents and will be required to have both a parental approval and waiver.  The bride must be at least 13 years of age, and the groom must be at least 14 years of age.  Non-residents who are under the age of 18 will not be permitted to marry in New Hampshire.  

The state of New Hampshire 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 here.  Couples who are residents of New Hampshire, however, must apply for a marriage license in the county where one lives.  Non-residents must apply in the county where the ceremony is to be held.  Once granted, a marriage license is valid for 90 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 cost is $45.00, and it is advisable that applicants have cash on hand in the event that credit cards are not accepted. 

Same sex marriage is not permitted in the state of New Hampshire.  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 unless honored for the purpose of settling an estate or inheritance.  A wedding can be officiated by an ordained clergyman, a judge or justice of the peace.  Clergymen who are not residents of New Hampshire may request a special license from the Secretary of State in order to perform a ceremony. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the purple lilac, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire marriage certificate, send $12.00 to: Division of Vital Records Administration, Health and Welfare Building, 29 Hazen Dr., Concord, NH 03301-6508.

Code of New Hampshire

Title 43, Chapter 457 provides information on New Hampshire marriage laws.