State guide
West Virginia
West Virginia marriage licenses are issued by county clerks, and current county guidance says adult licenses are effective immediately once issued. The state also maintains a Secretary of State marriage-celebrant registration system, so couples should confirm their officiant is authorized before the ceremony.
Checked against official sources on October 4, 2026. Rules and links change; confirm with the office listed before you act.
- Who issues licenses
- clerk of the county commission
- Waiting period
- none for adults
- License valid for
- 60 days
- Witnesses
- not required
- License fee
- $57 standard; $37 with qualifying premarital education discount
Official resources in West Virginia
Primary state law on marriage licenses, validity, officiants, and filing requirements.
Official state page for marriage celebrant registration and license search tools.
Official directory to locate the county clerk office that issues marriage licenses.
Current county clerk guidance summarizing West Virginia marriage-license rules, fees, and witnesses.
Official county page with practical application instructions and courthouse ceremony note.
Key facts for West Virginia
- Licenses are issued by the clerk of the county commission.
- An unused license becomes null and void 60 days after issuance.
- Monroe County says adults have no waiting period; licenses are effective immediately.
- Monroe County says no witnesses are required by state law.
- Monroe County lists a standard marriage-license fee of $57, reduced by $20 with qualifying premarital education.
- Fayette County says the courthouse does not offer walk-in civil marriages and instead provides local officiant contacts.
What to do next
- Check your county clerk's procedures before you go; some counties require appointments or county-of-residence rules for residents.
- If using a religious officiant, verify they are properly registered through the Secretary of State before the ceremony.
- Plan to complete the ceremony within 60 days and ensure the officiant returns the executed license to the issuing clerk.
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?