How to Elope in Delaware

Delaware is a great elopement location for its wealth of national parks, rolling hills and stunning beaches.
Outline map of Delaware

Planning an Elopement?

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Why is Delaware great for an elopement?

Delaware is one of the smallest states in the USA, which makes it kinda perfect for an elopement. With quaint, historic towns, fancy country clubs, and gorgeous beaches, Delaware is sure to offer something to any couple looking to elope.

GETTING YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE

All states require a marriage license, so you need to ensure that you understand all of the requirements very early in the planning process. Luckily, it’s fairly straightforward in most cases as long as you meet the criteria and follow the state requirements.

Here is what you need to know about getting a marriage license in Delaware.

Is Same Sex Marriage Recognized?

Yes! Same sex marriage is recognized in all states, and at a federal level, under the Respect for Marriage Act which was signed into law in December 2022.

Will I Need to take a blood test?

No. Blood tests have been abolished as part of marriage license applications in all 50 states, so don’t worry if you’re afraid of needles!

Who Issues Marriage Licenses in Delaware?

Marriage licenses in Delaware are issued by the County Clerk at their County Clerk of the Peace office.

Do I Need to be a Resident of Delaware?

Both residents and non-residents may apply for a marriage license in Delaware. If one of the applicants is a Delaware resident you can apply at a reduce fee of $70. If neither party is a Delaware resident, the fee is $120.

Is there a waiting period to get married?

There is a waiting period of 24 hours for all applicants to marry in Delaware.

How long will my marriage license be valid for?

Marriage licenses issued in Delaware are valid for 30 days.

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE TO GET MARRIED IN Delaware?

To legally marry in Delaware, both parties must be at least 18 years of age. Those under the age of 18 are not permitted to marry in the state.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE ID?

Valid photo ID is required when applying for a marriage license in Delaware such as: a driver’s license, passport, military identification or a state-issued identification card.

HOW MUCH DOES A MARRIAGE LICENSE COST IN Delaware?

There is a fee of $50 for Delaware residents to apply for a marriage license, and $100 for non-residents. There is an additional Recording Fee of $20, applied to all marriage licenses.

On Your Wedding Day

Once you’ve gotten the admin out of the way, you can get to the part you’ve been dreaming of: the wedding ceremony!

As you’d expect, each state has different requirements to make a marriage legal. Make sure you follow the guide below to get your marriage legally recognized.

Will i need witnesses to the marriage?

Two witnesses are required for weddings taking place in Delaware.

DOES Delaware REQUIRE AN OFFICIANT FOR A WEDDING?

Officiants are required for marriages in Delaware. Eligible people include: ministers or clergymen of any religion, current or former judges either of the state or at a federal level, or other executive officers and clerks of Delaware.

Officiants in Delaware are required to register with the County Clerk in the county where the marriage is taking place. If the officiant is a Delaware resident, they may already be registered statewide.

SUMMARY

So that’s it, everything you need to know about eloping in Delaware. And if you think that it could be the place to host your special day, why not give me a call to chat about your wedding? I’m an experienced elopement photographer, and an ordained minister, so in most cases I can be your officiant too!

Planning an Elopement?

Get my step-by-step guide and plan your dream elopement!

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