US Legal Forms
Legal Resources
Questions & Answers
Marriage
Can I get a marriage license in West Virginia within 24 hours?

Can I get a marriage license in West Virginia within 24 hours?

Full question:

I’ve been told that it takes a minimum of 2 days for the marriage license to be issued. Is there a way to get the marriage license issued within 24 hours of application in West Virginia?

Category: Marriage
Subcategory: License
Date: 04/07/2025
State: West Virginia

Answer:

In West Virginia, a marriage license typically cannot be issued until two full days have passed since the application was filed. However, in emergencies or extraordinary circumstances, it may be possible to obtain a license sooner. In such cases, you must provide proof of the emergency, such as an affidavit. A circuit judge can then order the county clerk to issue the license before the waiting period ends. If local judges are unavailable, a judge from an adjoining circuit may also issue the order. (W. Va. Code § 48-2-103)

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can you get married the same day in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, you cannot get married on the same day you apply for a marriage license due to a mandatory waiting period of two full days. However, in emergency situations, you may be able to obtain a license sooner with proof of the emergency and a court order from a circuit judge. (W. Va. Code § 48-2-103) *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

Is there a waiting period in WV to get married?

Yes, there is a waiting period in West Virginia. After applying for a marriage license, you must wait two full days before you can legally get married. This waiting period is designed to allow for any necessary considerations before the marriage takes place. (W. Va. Code § 48-2-103) *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

Is there a waiting period for marriage license in West Virginia?

Yes, West Virginia has a waiting period for marriage licenses. After you apply for a license, you must wait a minimum of two full days before the license can be issued. This waiting period is standard and applies to all applicants unless there are extraordinary circumstances. (W. Va. Code § 48-2-103) *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

How do I get a copy of my marriage license in WV?

To obtain a copy of your marriage license in West Virginia, you need to contact the county clerk's office where the license was issued. You may need to provide identification and pay a small fee for the copy. It's advisable to check the specific requirements with the county clerk's office, as procedures may vary by location. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

In what states can you marry the same day?

Marriage laws vary by state, and some states allow couples to marry on the same day they apply for a marriage license. States like Nevada and Texas have more flexible rules, enabling same-day marriages. However, many states, including West Virginia, have waiting periods. Always check the specific laws in your state or the state where you plan to marry for accurate information. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*