How do I get a marriage license in Alabama?

Alabama abolished marriage licenses in 2019 and replaced them with a self-filed Marriage Certificate.

1. The New System (since Aug 29, 2019)

Alabama no longer issues marriage licenses or requires officiants (Ala. Code § 30-1-9.1).

Couples complete, sign before a notary, and file a Marriage Certificate form at any Probate Court.

The signed and recorded form itself constitutes the marriage — no ceremony required.

2. Where to File

Any Probate Court in Alabama; filing in person or by mail.

3. ID and Documents

Government-issued photo ID.

Previously married: date of divorce or death.

4. Fees

$77.50-$80 depending on county.

5. Waiting Period and Expiration

No waiting period, no expiration — once filed and recorded, the marriage is legally effective.

6. Age and Residency

18 minimum with no exceptions — Alabama banned minor marriages in 2019 (Ala. Code § 30-1-4).

No residency requirement.

7. Blood Test and Same-Sex Marriage

No blood test required.

Same-sex marriage legal since Obergefell (2015). The 2019 license-abolition reform was partly designed to sidestep probate judges who refused to issue licenses to same-sex couples.

This is legal information, not legal advice.