In Washington, D.C., the process is quite different from Delhi. There is no 30-day waiting period, and D.C. is one of the few places in the world where you can even officiate your own wedding (Self-Officiation).
Here is how you get “court married” in the District of Columbia as of 2026.
1. The Essentials
- Location: All legalities happen at the DC Marriage Bureau (Moultrie Courthouse, 500 Indiana Ave NW).
- Age: Both must be at least 18 years old (16 with parental consent).
- Cost: $45.00 total ($35 for the application + $10 for the certificate).
- Identification: A valid government-issued ID (Driver’s license, Passport, or Military ID).
2. Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Apply for the License
You can apply online through the DC Courts website or in person at the courthouse.
- Crucial Detail: You must name your officiant on the application. If you want a courthouse wedding, you list “Court Official.” If you want to marry yourselves, you list “Self.”+1
Step 2: Pick Up the License
Even if you apply online, the court may require a follow-up or a visit to verify IDs. Unlike many other U.S. states, DC has no waiting period. You can theoretically get your license and get married on the same day.
Step 3: The Ceremony
You have three options for the “ceremony” part:
- Civil Ceremony (The “Court Marriage”): A court official performs the wedding in a small room at the courthouse. Note: You must schedule this in advance. The waitlist is typically 2–3 weeks.+1
- Self-Officiation: You and your partner simply sign the license yourselves. No judge, no priest, and no witnesses are required in D.C.
- Authorized Officiant: A friend (who has a temporary DC officiant permit) or a religious leader performs it anywhere within D.C. limits.
Step 4: Record the Marriage
After the ceremony, the signed license must be returned to the Marriage Bureau (in person or by mail) to be officially recorded.
3. Important Rules to Remember
- District Limits: A D.C. marriage license is only valid for ceremonies performed within Washington, D.C. You cannot use it in Virginia or Maryland.
- No Witnesses Needed: D.C. law does not require witnesses to be present or sign the license.
- No Expiration: Once issued, a D.C. marriage license does not expire. You can use it a week later or a year later.+1
Comparison: Delhi vs. DC
| Feature | Delhi (Special Marriage Act) | Washington, D.C. |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting Period | 30 Days | None |
| Witnesses | 3 Required | None Required |
| Self-Marriage | Not Allowed | Allowed |
| Total Cost | ~₹1,000–₹1,500 | $45 (~₹3,800) |
| Residency | 30-day residency required | No residency required |
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Are you planning to travel to D.C. specifically for the wedding, or are you a local resident looking to schedule a slot with a judge?