Book a Ceremony

Home / Marriage License / West Virginia

West Virginia Marriage License & Officiant Requirements

Everything you need to get legally married in West Virginia — where to apply, timing, witnesses, and who can perform your ceremony. Here's your step-by-step checklist.

Apply at

County Clerk

Waiting period

None

License valid for

60 days

Witnesses at ceremony

None

⚠️ Officiant registration required

Religious officiants must register with the WV Secretary of State (statewide registry) before officiating; judges are authorized by law. Every officiant on Book a Ceremony attests that they are legally authorized to perform marriages in the areas they serve.

Your step-by-step checklist

  1. Both partners apply for a marriage license at the issuing office for the area where you'll marry (most require both of you to appear in person).
  2. Bring valid government-issued photo ID for each partner; some offices also require proof of age, Social Security number, or, if applicable, divorce/death records from prior marriages.
  3. Pay the license fee (varies by county) and observe any waiting period before the license is valid.
  4. Have your ceremony performed by an authorized officiant within the license's validity window. In West Virginia, the license is valid for 60 days.
  5. Your officiant and witnesses (if required) sign the license, and the officiant returns it to the issuing office by the deadline.
  6. Request a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the issuing office for your records.

Find your West Virginia county clerk →

This is general information, not legal advice, and may not reflect recent changes or county-specific rules. Always confirm the current requirements with your local clerk before finalizing your plans. Last reviewed: September 2026. See our Terms

Book a verified officiant in West Virginia

Every officiant attests they are legally authorized to marry you. Transparent pricing, request-to-book (instant book where offered), ceremonies of every tradition.

Find an officiant in West Virginia →

Official source: find your West Virginia county clerk · all states