Self uniting marriage license pa lehigh county. In preparation for their weddin...

Self uniting marriage license pa lehigh county. In preparation for their wedding, the parties went to the Register of Wills in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania and requested a self-uniting marriage license. A self-uniting license is what is used for this. Short answer: You should contact your county's register of wills far in advance of the wedding to find out if you qualify for a self-uniting license. Easiest thing ever and can be used in any county in PA. 7. The cost is $10. 00/certified copy, plus $10. You can use your marriage license in any county in Pennsylvania. Marriage license fees vary from county to county. 00 plus a processor fee. Pennsylvania has legally welcomed self-uniting marriage since 1682, and there are typically two types of ceremonies where you can marry without an officiant: a civil wedding and a self-uniting marriage. S. The couple just needs to go and apply for a self-uniting marriage certificate, then they can get married with or without an "officiant", I. Here are the answers you need to plan your wedding. Aug 7, 2025 · So as long as your ceremony takes place within state lines, your self-uniting marriage will be legally binding. Court Street Doylestown, PA 18901 Phone: 215-348-6000 Levittown Location Lower Bucks County Government Services Center 7321 New Falls Road Levittown, PA 19055 Phone: 267 Lehigh County To find answers to more common questions, visit the county court website. Feb 11, 2015 · But in Pennsylvania, getting married doesn’t even have to be that formal. and marriage will need Marriage License Fees: Marriage license fees in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vary from county to county. APPLICANTS MUST BE EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER. Use our directory to apply for records, request certified copies, and learn the requirements. Hamilton Street, Allentown, Pennsylvania, 18101 to request a certified copy of the marriage record during regular business hours. This means you can say your vows to each other without a third party’s involvement, which is both Aug 4, 2024 · The Bucks County Orphans Court can assist in obtaining a Quaker marriage license, which is a special license rooted in the Quaker faith. Completing a marriage license application in Allegheny County is a two-step process. 5 of the Courthouse). Jan 28, 2023 · A clause in the Marriage Act of Pennsylvania recognizes marriages performed without religious ceremony. Once you have a marriage license, you get a specific time period to make it official. Most counties require payment via cash, credit card, or check. Where can I get my marriage license? 8. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No Just got a self-uniting marriage ahead of my destination wedding. Even just googling “self uniting marriage in STATE” will give you some information. After submitting the application online and having the interview with the department via zoom they give you the option to either have the license mailed or picked up downtown. This is referred to as a self-uniting license. Please call the Adams County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. There is a three (3) day waiting period from the completion of the application process to the issuance of the license. Please call the Northampton County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. It is absolutely public record. Hoping to chat with anyone recently married in PA to learn about the marriage license process to see how this works and if it’s recognized. A self-uniting marriage license is required for the marriage to be considered legally binding for ceremonies without an official performing the ceremony. -- Prior to issuance of the license, the person issuing Dec 29, 2025 · Note: These tips refer to traditional Pennsylvania marriage licenses. Both applicants must appear in person at the Register of Wills and provide the required documents, including identification. Nov 16, 2025 · A self-uniting marriage license allows you to marry without an officiant, enhancing personal and legal freedom. Couples marrying in Pennsylvania must obtain a marriage license from any issuing Oct 5, 2011 · Also, in PA, the license is filed in the county in which it's applied for, but the wedding can be in any county. Here are links to some of the local counties we work with most often: Berks County Bucks County Chester County Delaware County Lancaster County Lehigh County Montgomery County Northampton County Philadelphia County Please be advised that you must obtain your license at least 3 days prior to your wedding date. These marriages only require the signatures of two witnesses in place of an officiant. Apr 13, 2024 · A self-uniting marriage license is required, which differs from the traditional form in wording and requires two witnesses. This unique option is primarily available to Quakers and other religious sects but is increasingly recognized as an inclusive choice for couples who wish to self-solemnize their marriage. Feb 20, 2024 · Pennsylvania marriage law requires couples to obtain a self-uniting license, which differs from the traditional form in wording and requires a ceremony in front of at least two witnesses. Mar 11, 2025 · My fiancé and I are getting married 6/10 and I’m looking for info on how to apply for a Self-Uniting marriage license in Northampton County. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania Information for Applying for a Marriage License This site allows you to submit information for "ON-LINE" marriage application to the Monroe County Orphans’ Court, Marriage License Office. Please call the Westmoreland County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. Marriage License Fees: Marriage license fees in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vary from county to county. Please call the Beaver County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. We do not accept personal checks. Sep 1, 2025 · Discover Pennsylvania's legal process for couples to marry without a traditional ceremony. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No Marriage License Fees: Marriage license fees in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vary from county to county. Please call the county Register of Wills in which you will be applying for their fees and other requirements. Quaker/ Self-Uniting License fee varies by county. How Do You Get a Self-uniting Marriage License in Philadelphia There are a number of steps you have to go through to get your marriage license in Philadelphia so planning ahead is a good idea. All appointments are done virtually via Microsoft Teams. Long answer: Some PA counties require you to show proof that you are a practicing member of a faith that does not have official clergy, e. May 16, 2023 · Ohiopyle Weddings provides a history of self-uniting marriage ceremonies in Pennsylvania and offers recommendations for how to perform one on your wedding or elopement day in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. First, Middle, Last Name - Please print legibly Would you like to apply to register to vote in Pennsylvania at the time of your in-person marriage license appointment? Marriage License Fees: Marriage license fees in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vary from county to county. Marriage license required. You need to Wait three days before the license can be signed. Each applicant for a marriage license who is a United States Citizen, must submit this form contemporaneously with the Marriage License Application and In-Person Appointment forms. You first have to go in person and apply for your license. Pennsylvania is one of the few states that offers couples the option of a self-uniting marriage license. Do we have to make an appointment with the orphans court? What is the difference between a traditional marriage license and a self-uniting license? A traditional license requires an officiant to perform the ceremony, while a self-uniting license allows the couple to solemnize their marriage without an officiant, in accordance with Pennsylvania law. A marriage license is valid for 60 day s from date it is issued. Jul 4, 2024 · Learn about the requirements and process for getting a self uniting marriage license in Pennsylvania, including application, ceremony, and fees. The procedures, directions and necessary forms to apply for a marriage license and to obtain certified copies are described below, and are more particularly set forth at Self Help Section instructions, and on informational recording available by calling 610-782-3173. e. 23 Pa See [link for Disclaimer of Liability] responsible for proving marriage license marriage not require witnesses to an the return to perform of marriage ceremony. Like the "self uniting" marriage license, it varies from county to county. information. PA is one of several states in the US which offers this option. You must inform the clerk at the Register of Wills office that you want a self-uniting license at the time you apply. Jun 1, 2022 · Whether you’re eloping to the Jersey Shore, tying the knot at a Philly wedding venue or getting married through a self-uniting marriage officiated by you and your partner (yes, you can do that in Pennsylvania), you have to get a marriage license first. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No Jun 1, 2022 · Whether you’re eloping to the Jersey Shore, tying the knot at a Philly wedding venue or getting married through a self-uniting marriage officiated by you and your partner (yes, you can do that in Pennsylvania), you have to get a marriage license first. 5 Allentown, PA 18101-1614 OR 3. If you choose a self-uniting marriage license (for a Quaker wedding or a wedding with no officiant), please ask your clerk for the most up-to-date instructions when purchasing your license. Marriage records cannot be certified unless and until the duplicate marriage certificate has been returned to this office by the officiant. Please include a business sized self- addressed & stamped envelope. Aug 30, 2025 · My fiancé and I are getting married 6/10 and I’m looking for info on how to apply for a Self-Uniting marriage license in Northampton County. § 1301. FEES The fee in Dauphin County is $80. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No The Online Marriage License Application provides constituents of Lancaster County the ability to register for a marriage license online, without having to appear in person at the Courthouse. C. Self uniting marriage license. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No Dec 20, 2021 · We are getting married in bucks county in august of 2022. The fee is $10. APPLICATION FOR MARRIAGE IS A STATE APPLICATION - YOU MAY APPLY IN ANY COUNTY AND BE MARRIED IN ANY COUNTY WITHIN THE STATE OF PA. you Jul 6, 2017 · LAWRENCE COUNTY, Pa. Doylestown Main Office Bucks County Administration Building 55 E. Nov 24, 2024 · The process of acquiring a self-uniting marriage license varies by jurisdiction. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has a provision in the Marriage Act that recognizes a marriage performed without officiating clergy. Your application can be submitted any time prior to your marriage, it will remain in our system indefinitely. (c) Identity of applicants. For reference, in PA you need to specifically apply for the self-uniting marriage license as there is a different one for a marriage with an officiant. Jun 10, 2023 · A clause in the Marriage Act of Pennsylvania recognizes marriages performed without religious ceremony. Marriage License Marriage License Application Process (please complete all steps) All Marriage License Applications are completed electronically through our online Portal. In person appearance at Marriage License Department (Room 123. Please call the Montgomery County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. Jul 4, 2024 · Under Pennsylvania marriage law, couples wishing to nix an officiant must obtain a self-uniting license, which varies from the traditional form only in wording. Do we have to make an appointment with the orphans court? In order to claim your marriage license after submitting an automated application, both the applicants must appear in person at the Northampton County Register of Deeds office. I live in Montgomery County but my marriage is taking place in another county in Pennsylvania. Get marriage certificates, licenses, and public records. (b) Place of marriage ceremony. Whether you need to look up records or get a marriage certificate, our links give you direct access to the databases and offices. In Pennsylvania, couples must apply in person at the county courthouse and may need affidavits or letters of support. Our office will issue a Self-uniting marriage license as provided by the Marriage Law, 23 Pa. RELATED: Heartfelt Self Uniting Marriage Ceremony Script Become a minister today! Jan 25, 2023 · A self-uniting marriage license in Pennsylvania costs Cost. no ceremony is required just two witnesses. Fellow PA bride here, Hi! We're also hoping to do a self-uniting marriage license. Please call the Lebanon County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. Self - uniting (Quaker) marriage. On file are marriage license applications beginning in October 1885. Here’s everything you need to know about the history of self-uniting marriages and how to obtain a self-uniting marriage license in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania courts have ruled that Common Law marriages after January 1, 2005 are invalid in Pennsylvania. Marriage Licenses Apply for a Marriage License **You MUST call and make an appointment to apply for your marriage license** If you need a specific date or time to schedule an appointment to apply for your marriage license, please call at least a week in advance to insure you get the date and time you prefer. You then drop off the form and get your official marriage license in the mail. Why do you need my social security number (SSN) to apply for a marriage license? The 1996 Federal Welfare Reform Act and the Commonwealth of PA Act 98-127 require the Social Security number of an individual who has one on any application for a marriage license. Proxy Marriages: No. 6617 8:00 a. You can learn how to get a marriage license, a marriage certificate, or marriage records from your local Marriage License Office, Clerk, Health Department, or Town or City Hall. A traditional marriage license requires an officiant to solemnize the marriage. g. Dec 10, 2017 · We live in eastern PA, and there are a fair number of Quaker meetings, so the county clerk offices in this area generally issue self-uniting licenses without any questions, as long as the couple lets them know upon making the application, so they can prepare the right paperwork. Aug 21, 2025 · Getting married in Pennsylvania? Learn everything you need to know about how to legally get married in Pennsylvania, including marriage licenses, self-uniting options, costs, and requirements. § 1502. . Pennsylvania has a provision in the Marriage Act that recognizes a marriage performed without officiating clergy. Please call the Fayette County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. MARRIAGE LICENSE POLICY 1. You cannot use it in another state or country. Apr 20, 2023 · They have an online application process, you just need to upload a copy of your photo ID, check the box for "self-uniting license", and then they schedule a 15 minute Zoom call and email you your blank license to print and fill in. Quaker weddings are spiritual ceremonies allowing couple-led vows, with Pennsylvania Title 23 § 1502 In all cases in which the parties intend to solemnize their marriage by religious ceremony without officiating clergy, please notify the clerk at the beginning of your appointment that you require a Self-Uniting Marriage License. No. A traditional marriage license requires an officiant to solemnize the marriage as defined under Pennsylvania law Title 23, Section 1503 (see above). Processor Fees Click Orphans Court > Marriage Information > Schedule Video Marriage. Both applicants are generally required to appear in person to complete the application. m. Cousin Marriages Requests for Certified Marriage Records are accepted in person or by mail. How do I get a self-uniting license? 10. Feb 1, 2024 · Pennsylvania is one of four states where you can self-unite, making it extremely easy for couple’s to elope here! In 2021, over 1,500 couples in the state of Pennsylvania chose to self-unite, and this new method of getting married is becoming increasingly popular among people who aren’t interested in a traditional big wedding. Regular marriage licenses are $90 each. 00. Search for Lehigh County, PA marriage license rules and requirements. Aug 9, 2015 · We just picked up our self-uniting marriage license yesterday. Marriage License Office Clerk of Orphans' Court Lehigh County Courthouse 455 West Hamilton Street Room 123. Please call the Somerset County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. Oct 29, 2007 · However, in this case, the parties planned a secular, rather than a religious, ceremony. Please call the Cumberland County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. A self-uniting marriage license does not require an officiant to solemnize the marriage. Please call the Lehigh County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. The clerk was not very helpful and gave a very stern warning to fill out the license correctly, saying that it's more complicated than a normal license. In addition, marriage record requests and status of requests can be checked at any time. In Pennsylvania, a self-uniting marriage license allows couples to marry without the need for an officiant. Our wedding is next Friday. View requirements for applying for a marriage license, search available marriage license cases, and learn how to obtain a marriage record. However, keep in mind you must schedule an appointment before coming into the office. Sep 1, 2025 · Applying for Your Self-Uniting Marriage License The process of applying for a self-uniting marriage license in Pennsylvania begins at the Register of Wills/Orphans’ Court in any county. Pennsylvania Title 23 § 1502 In all cases in which the parties intend to solemnize their marriage by religious ceremony without officiating clergy, please notify the clerk at the beginning of your appointment that you require a Self-Uniting Marriage License. It takes two witnesses. Processor Fees The Online Marriage License Application provides constituents of Lancaster County the ability to register for a marriage license online, without having to appear in person at the Courthouse. It is important that you verify all information with the Erie County Register of Wills office before making any wedding or travel plans. A self-uniting marriage license does not require an officiant to solemnize the marriage but does require the signatures of two witnesses. Aug 28, 2019 · And when might you choose a self-uniting license? The source of the confusion over Pennsylvania’s rules for marriage started in the mid-2000s when, in separate cases, county clerks questioned self-uniting licenses and the use of officiants ordained online. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No Marriage License Marriage License Application Process (please complete all steps) All Marriage License Applications are completed electronically through our online Portal. Reading, PA 19601 610. Understanding the implications for estate planning and potential impacts on spousal benefits is crucial when considering a Pennsylvania self uniting marriage. A Quaker marriage - assuming you mean getting married in PA using the Quaker (aka Self Uniting) form of the marriage license (regardless of whether or not you hold a ceremony and regardless of any religious affiliation you may or may not have) - is absolutely a regular legal marriage. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 478. How much does it cost for a marriage license application? Can I register my marriage in Pennsylvania if it takes place in another country or state? Does Lehigh County issue Self-Uniting marriage licenses? Does Pennsylvania recognize common-law marriages? Is there a central registry of marriage licenses in Pennsylvania? Amber Jones You just show up to the register of wills and answer like 5 questions and they give you the paperwork in washington county. What is the difference between a traditional marriage license and a self-uniting license? A traditional license requires an officiant to perform the ceremony, while a self-uniting license allows the couple to solemnize their marriage without an officiant, in accordance with Pennsylvania law. Licenses for self-uniting or Quaker organizations cost $100. Jul 13, 2025 · Has anyone gotten a self-uniting license in Lehigh county? I don't see any mention of it on their website, calling the number will just give you a recorded message, and they have wording on their website to the affect of "only ordained people can legally perform a marriage". Please call the Lancaster County Register of Wills office for their fees and other requirements. Application for the Marriage License must have been made in Chester County, PA from 1931 to the present. Applying for a self-uniting marriage license usually involves paying a fee, which varies from county to county in Pennsylvania. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No Applicants choosing to solemnize their marriage themselves must alert the Clerk of the Orphans' Court at the time of their marriage license application appointment so that the Clerk may issue a Self-Uniting Marriage License. Do I need a licensed minister or priest to perform my marriage ceremony? 9. It took like 5 minutes. Quakers, to qualify Marriage licenses acquired from a county clerk remain a prerequisite for legal validation. PA State Law says that "any ordained minister, priest or rabbi of any regularly established church or congregation, Judges, and Justices of Peace may perform wedding ceremonies. The Quaker form is called a self uniting marriage license and it is just a one pager where you both sign and then your 2 witnesses sign. (a) General rule. Legally valid as any other license. If your request is time-sensitive, please be advised that marriage records are public information: You or someone on your behalf may come to Room 123 of the Lehigh County Courthouse, 455 W. When writing for a Certified Copy of a Marriage please include both person's names at the time they applied for their marriage license and the date of marriage. , 2nd flr. I would recommend looking up the information your local county clerk website. Proxy Marriages Pennsylvania: No Intro The Online Marriage License Application provides constituents of Lancaster County the ability to register for a marriage license online, without having to appear in person at the Courthouse. 10 charge if the certified copy is sent to requesting party by priority mail. Applicants can choose a traditional license (requiring an officiant to solemnize the marriage) or a self-uniting license (does not require an officiant to solemnize the marriage). Two witnesses are required. — When Norman and Emmalie Lohr announced their plans for a self-uniting wedding, the Pennsylvania couple faced questions. Does Pennsylvania recognize common-law marriages? The self-uniting marriage remains a compelling option for couples to unite in love and marriage. A self-uniting license is what it is known as. -- A license issued under this part shall authorize a marriage ceremony to be performed in any county of this Commonwealth. Feb 6, 2025 · Curious about how self uniting weddings work? You've come to the right place! We'll walk you through the process. -- No person shall be joined in marriage in this Commonwealth until a marriage license has been obtained. Feb 15, 2024 · • When applying, couples will have the option to get a traditional license, or a self-uniting license. If you want this type of license, you need to inform the clerk before you begin the application process. Reply reply start260 • Beaver County Marriage Records (Pennsylvania) Find marriage records in Beaver County, PA. Before you can officially wed, you need to obtain a marriage license. Your application is NOT complete until you appear in the office of the Orphans Court, Marriage License Bureau with the required documents and fee. But in pa you can do a self uniting marriage with 2 witnesses signatures. Mail the request to Register of Wills with the Courthouse County of BerksMarriage License Requirements Marriage license fee: $55 Register of Wills 633 Court St. Marriage license fees in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vary from county to county. The Department of Court Records, Marriage License and Records website has new features: applicants can now draft, save, and resume marriage license applications. You need a marriage license before you can legally get married. opwvc uql fsecawof hisr byhnyke exxc iwyev fnmvc yyi pozey