Clerk's Office

Marriage License Application requirements

Age: Applicants over 18 years of age, follow information below. If applicant is under the age of 18, see Under Age Marriage Applicant

No waiting period: Applicants receive marriage license the same day application is completed

License expires: 60 days after date of issuance

Resident of Preston Co.: You do not have to be a resident of said county to obtain a Marriage License. Your ceremony must be performed in WV.

Non Resident of Preston Co.: May apply in any county. Recommend you apply in the county in which you reside but not required. Ceremony must be performed in WV.

Out of state resident: You can apply in any County Clerk’s Office; recommend you apply in the county in which you are being married.

ID requirement: Present valid photo ID, such as driver’s license, state ID, passport or certified birth certificate.

Family Information: Both parties must know the complete name of each of their parents including their mother’s maiden name and father’s full name including Jr. Sr. I or II (if applicable).

Both applicants must know the city and state or foreign country in which each of their parents were born.

Other information needed: Social Security Number, years of education, where to send greeting to (Groom or Bride address)

Previous marriage: (if applicable)

• Divorce: know the exact date in which the divorce decree was signed by the judge
• By Death: know the exact date of death, in which the previous marriage ended
• Dissolution or Annulment (specify dates)

Fees: Application for Marriage License $57.00 . If you have proof of 4 hrs  of pre-marital counseling, you receive a $20.00 discount.

Fee for Marriage Certificate: $5.00 this is issued after the officiant returns the Marriage License to the County Clerk’s Office.  You must request this certificate.  It is not issued automatically.

Officiant is responsible for returning the Marriage License to the County Clerk’s Office to be recorded and made a part of permanent records.

Officiant:

• An ordained minister who has received certification to perform marriages may officiate a wedding (Officiant must be registered with the WV Secretary of States’ Office)
• Circuit Court Judge Steve Shaffer 304-329-0066
• Family Court Judge’s Judge Randal Minor and Judge Patricia Hill practice in both Preston and Monongalia County. Preston County office 304-329-3569. Monongalia County office 304-285-3228.

Under age Marriage Applicant: § 48-2-301 If applicant is under the age of 18, parental or guardian consent forms must be completed (see below). If under the age of 16, you cannot marry without a court order and parental consent. See other requirements and information listed above.

Marriage Consent Form (pdf)