Hon. Kenneth W. Boulden, Jr.
Clerk Of the Peace

Address:

Marriage Bureau
Louis L. Redding,
City/County Bldg.
800 North French Street,
2nd Floor
Wilmington, DE 19801
Map and directions

Phone:

(302) 395-7780

Hours:

Monday through Friday

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

(closed 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.)

Clerk of the Peace - Marriage Licenses

The Clerk of the Peace oversees the issuance of Marriage and Civil Union Licenses at the New Castle County Marriage Bureau. We also perform ceremonies in the office and offer name change kits.

In addition to performing ceremonies, The Clerk Of The Peace also pays special tribute to couples celebrating their anniversaries by reaffirming and renewing their vows. Unique heirloom certificates are available for commemorating the occasion.

For additional information, or to inquire about a ceremony performed at the office, call our 24 hour information number (302) 395-7780.

Applying for a Marriage License

This option is for applying for a NEW Marriage/Civil Union license. If you need a certified copy of a marriage/Civil Union license for a marriage/civil union that has already taken place, see "Certified Copies of Records".

The Marriage license fee is $50.00 if either applicant is a Delaware resident; $100.00 if neither applicant is a Delaware resident. Effective January 1, 2013, there will be a $10.00 recording fee for all licenses issued, due at the time of application.
The Couple must apply together in person.
You must be at least 18 years of age to marry. Minors must petition Family Court for authorization to marry. (302) 255-0300.
You can not be related to each other or be of the same sex.
A valid state I.D. or Drivers License issued by the DMV, Passport, U.S. Visa I.D. Card, Federal Driver's License, Military I.D. or Government Consulate I.D. is required to apply for a marriage license.
To verify the authenticity of an applicant’s identification, the office of the Clerk of the Peace may also require additional documentation such as a birth certificate or social security card.
You can not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Marriage licenses are valid for 30 days and the ceremony must take place in Delaware.
Persons intending to be married within this State shall obtain a marriage license at least 24 hours prior to the time of the ceremony. This applies to residents as well as non-residents.
Marriage licenses can be purchased as a gift certificate.
If individuals have previously been married, an original or certified copy of the Divorce Decree, Annulment, or Death Certificate is required.
Special authorization is required if either party is on probation or parole.