How to Apply

Complete an application online so the license will be ready when you come to the clerk's office using the Self Service Portal.

Both persons who are to be married must come to Hanover Circuit Court Clerk's Office:

Hanover Courthouse
Second Floor
7530 County Complex Road
Hanover, VA 23069

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Arrive by 4 p.m.

The license is valid for 60 days and may be used immediately upon issuance.

Age Requirement

The minimum age at which persons may marry shall be 18, unless a minor has been emancipated by court order.  An emancipated minor shall provide a certified copy of the order of emancipation.  Virginia Code Section 20-48.

What to Bring When You Visit the Clerk's Office

• Cash or credit card (VISA/MasterCard). The fee is $30 plus $2.50 for each certified copy ordered. A $2 convenience fee is added to credit card payments
• Driver's license or other proof of identification

What if I am Unable to Apply in Person for the Marriage License?

Call the clerk's office at 804-365-6151 Press 4.

Who Can Perform the Wedding?

Marriages may be performed by a qualified minister, judge, or civil marriage celebrant who has been authorized by the court to perform weddings.  Civil Marriage Celebrants shows persons authorized by the Circuit Court in Hanover County to perform marriages. 

Virginia Code Section 20-27 governs what civil marriage celebrants may charge for performing a wedding.

One-time Marriage Celebrant

Petition For Authorization To Celebrate Rites Of Marriage (Persons Other Than Ministers) Form CC-1498 07/18 is provided by the Supreme Court of Virginia’s Office of the Executive Secretary for use petitioning the Court for authorization to perform to a wedding.  One Time Civil Marriage Ceremony Authorization describes the process in Hanover Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.

Purchasing a Copy of a Marriage License

Online: Self Service Select Document Search (Index), then select Marriage Licenses (Index). Certified copies of a marriage license will be sent to you by mail after you pay for them in Self Service.

By Mail: Send request to: Hanover Circuit Court Clerk's Office, Attention: Marriage Licenses, P.O. Box 39, Hanover, VA 23069

• Include a check or money order payable to Circuit Court Clerk for $2.50 per certified copy and your return address.

In Person at the Clerk's Office: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost is $2.50 per certified copy. Cash, check or money order.

Questions?

Contact us at 804-365-6151 press 4.  

 “Marriage in Virginia,” published by the Virginia State Bar has useful information about marriage.