South Carolina State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in South Carolina, also known as The Palmetto State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide a social security card, along with a driver’s license, voter registration card, birth certificate or passport when applying for a marriage license.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, but some areas of South Carolina may impose a 24-hour waiting period.   

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of South Carolina must produce a certified copy of their birth certificate and notarized, written parental/guardian consent.  The parent/guardian must also appear with the minor, when an application for a marriage license is submitted, for the purpose of providing identification and signing a consent form.  In South Carolina, the minimum age for a bride to marry is 14 and the minimum for a groom is 16 years of age. 

The state of South Carolina 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 southern state.  Once granted, a marriage license does not expire.  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.  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 South Carolina.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are recognized in the state.  A wedding can be officiated by an ordained or licensed member of the clergy or a justice of the peace. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the yellow jessamine, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make South Carolina 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 South Carolina marriage certificate, send $12.00 to: Office of Vital Records, SC DHEC, 2600 Bull St., Columbia, SC 29201.

Code of South Carolina

Title 20, Chapter 1 provides information on South Carolina marriage laws.