Baltimore, MD

Baltimore marriage license cost and civil wedding steps

Last updated: 2026 • Official Source ↗

Quick answer

Baltimore: For Baltimore, the listed marriage license fee is $35. The waiting period is 48 Hours, and the license is valid for 6 Months. Use the official source before applying, because local offices can change fees, appointments, and ceremony rules.

License Fee

$35

Wait Time

48 Hours

Valid For

6 Months
Ranked #18 of 86 by lowest listed cost, below the $66 average

Baltimore marriage license cost and wait time

Baltimore's listed marriage license fee is $35. The waiting period is 48 Hours, and the license has a 6 Months validity window. Compared with the US city average of $66, Baltimore is $31 below average and ranks 18 of 86 for lowest listed cost.

Courthouse or city hall wedding in Baltimore

If you are searching for a courthouse wedding in Baltimore, start with the marriage license. Civil ceremony appointments, city hall options, officiants, and return rules are handled locally, so confirm ceremony availability with the official office before choosing a date.

Official details can change without much notice. Treat this as a planning guide and verify with the linked office before you apply.

Overview

Baltimore City Circuit Court Clerk issues marriage licenses. Maryland has a 48-hour waiting period before the license can be used.

1

Requirements

2

Process

01

Visit Circuit Court

Go to Baltimore City Circuit Court Clerk's office.

02

Complete Application

Only one party needs to appear with info for both.

03

Pay the Fee

Pay $35 by cash or card.

04

Wait 48 Hours

License valid after 48 hours for 6 months.

How Baltimore compares

CityLicense FeeWait Time
Baltimore$3548 Hours
Des Moines, IA$353 Days
New York City, NY$3524 Hours
Rochester, NY$4024 Hours
Wilmington, DE$3024 Hours
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a marriage license in Baltimore?

The listed marriage license fee for Baltimore is $35. Fees can change, so verify the amount with the official office before applying.

How long does it take to get a marriage license in Baltimore?

Baltimore: The waiting period is 48 Hours. If you are planning a civil or courthouse wedding, build that timing into your date planning.

Can you have a courthouse wedding in Baltimore?

Courthouse, city hall, or civil ceremony availability depends on the local office. The marriage license is the first step; use the official source to confirm ceremony appointments and local rules.

Do both people need to appear?

No, only one person needs to apply with information for both.

Is there a waiting period?

Yes, 48 hours before the license can be used.

How long is the license valid?

6 months (180 days) from issuance.