Connecticut marriage license: cost and requirements
In Connecticut you apply in the town of the wedding, and since October 2026 you must wait 48 hours to receive it. It is good for 65 days and costs $50.
Mystic, ConnecticutConnecticut summary
Official source Reviewed Nov 4, 2026 · Confirmed in the law or on the official website.
- Cost
- $50.
- Waiting period
- 48 hours: the town cannot issue the license until at least 48 hours have passed since the second person signs (in effect since October 1, 2026).
- Validity
- 65 days from when the town issues the license.
- Witnesses
- No witnesses are required.
How much is a marriage license in Connecticut?
$50.
What do you need to get the license?
- ID: Present ID and make a sworn statement that the information is true.
- Minimum age: 18, with no exceptions.
- Other requirements: Both appear in person during office hours. No blood test. You do not have to live in Connecticut. Marriage to close relatives and first cousins is prohibited. People under conservatorship need the conservator's written consent.
Where do you get it, and who issues it?
Registrar of vital statistics of the town or city where the wedding will take place.
Where it is valid: You apply in the town where the wedding will take place; the officiant returns it to that same town. Justices of the peace can officiate statewide.
Is there a waiting period, and does it expire?
- Waiting period: 48 hours: the town cannot issue the license until at least 48 hours have passed since the second person signs (in effect since October 1, 2026).
- Validity: 65 days from when the town issues the license.
How many witnesses, and who can marry you?
- Witnesses: No witnesses are required.
- Who can officiate: Judges and retired judges (including federal and out-of-state); family support magistrates and referees, state referees and justices of the peace appointed in Connecticut; clergy ordained or licensed in any state, including those ordained by online ministries.
Connecticut counties with an AltarPlan guide
We haven't published Connecticut county guides yet: we verify them one by one against the official source. In the meantime, these rules apply statewide and the office can confirm the exact fee.
How to get a marriage license in Connecticut
- Confirm where to apply: Registrar of vital statistics of the town or city where the wedding will take place.
- Gather your ID: Present ID and make a sworn statement that the information is true.
- Get your payment ready: $50.
- Count the waiting period: 48 hours: the town cannot issue the license until at least 48 hours have passed since the second person signs (in effect since October 1, 2026).
- Marry within the validity period: 65 days from when the town issues the license.
- Before you go, confirm everything with the office that issues the license: fees and hours change.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Connecticut marriage license valid anywhere in the state?
You apply in the town where the wedding will take place; the officiant returns it to that same town. Justices of the peace can officiate statewide.
What is the minimum age to marry in Connecticut?
18, with no exceptions.
Who can officiate a wedding in Connecticut?
Judges and retired judges (including federal and out-of-state); family support magistrates and referees, state referees and justices of the peace appointed in Connecticut; clergy ordained or licensed in any state, including those ordained by online ministries.
Does AltarPlan issue the license?
No. AltarPlan is not a government office and does not issue licenses. This information is a general guide, not legal advice: confirm with the office.
Sources and review date
- Connecticut Department of Public Health, Vital Records (License to Get Married) (opens in a new tab) Accessed Nov 4, 2026.
- City of Bridgeport, Vital Records (Marriage License Process) (opens in a new tab) Accessed Nov 4, 2026.
- Connecticut General Assembly, HB 5509 (2026) (opens in a new tab) Accessed Nov 4, 2026.
Reviewed Nov 4, 2026. If you spot an error, write to us.
AltarPlan is not a government office and does not issue licenses. General information, not legal advice. Confirm with the county office.