State guide
Connecticut
Connecticut issues marriage licenses through the vital records office or town clerk in the town where the ceremony will take place, not through counties. As of October 1, 2026, applicants must wait at least 48 hours after the second person signs the application before the town may issue the license.
Checked against official sources on October 4, 2026. Rules and links change; confirm with the office listed before you act.
- Who issues licenses
- Town clerk or registrar of vital records for the town where the marriage will be celebrated
- Waiting period
- 48 hours
- License valid for
- 65 days
- Witnesses
- not required
- License fee
- $50 statewide
Official resources in Connecticut
Connecticut DPH - License to Get Married
State Department of Public Health page explaining where to apply, the 48-hour delay, 65-day validity, and who may officiate.
Connecticut DPH - Marriage and Civil Union Certificates
State vital records page listing marriage-license basics and the statewide license fee.
Connecticut Justice of the Peace Manual (Secretary of the State)
Official handbook stating witnesses are not required and explaining officiant duties after the ceremony.
Key facts for Connecticut
- Apply in person in the town where the marriage will occur.
- The town cannot issue the license until at least 48 hours after the second applicant signs.
- A Connecticut marriage license is valid for up to 65 days after issuance.
- Witnesses are not required by Connecticut statute.
- The statewide marriage-license fee is $50.
- Connecticut requires a ceremony conducted in the physical presence of an authorized officiant, so self-uniting is not available.
What to do next
- Call the town clerk or vital records office where the ceremony will happen and ask about appointment rules and pickup timing after the 48-hour delay.
- Bring photo ID, complete the local worksheet if offered, and plan a second trip to pick up the issued license.
- Book an authorized officiant early; many town clerk pages state they issue licenses only and do not perform ceremonies.
Helpful guides
- How to get married at the courthouse
- What to bring when you apply for a marriage license
- Marriage license waiting periods and expiration dates
- Do you need witnesses for a courthouse wedding?
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