Maine marriage license: cost and requirements
First you file your "intentions" at the municipality; the license comes out the same day and lasts 90 days.
Maine summary
Official source Reviewed Nov 4, 2026 · Confirmed in the law or on the official website.
- Cost
- $40 (state intentions/license fee).
- Waiting period
- No waiting period: the license can be issued as soon as the intentions are filed.
- Validity
- 90 days from filing the intentions (19-A §652.3).
- Witnesses
- At least 2 witnesses besides the officiant (19-A §656.2).
How much is a marriage license in Maine?
$40 (state intentions/license fee).
What do you need to get the license?
- ID: Notice of intention form (VS2-A) signed before the clerk or a notary; the clerk must be satisfied as to identity.
- Minimum age: 18, with no exceptions since September 25, 2025 (19-A §652.8). Emancipated minors are treated as adults.
- Other requirements: Certified copy of the divorce, annulment or last spouse's death certificate. First cousins: medical certificate of genetic counseling.
Where do you get it, and who issues it?
Town or city clerk where either of you lives, or the State Registrar of Vital Statistics; if neither lives in Maine, any municipality.
Where it is valid: Anywhere in Maine (19-A §651.1).
Is there a waiting period, and does it expire?
- Waiting period: No waiting period: the license can be issued as soon as the intentions are filed.
- Validity: 90 days from filing the intentions (19-A §652.3).
How many witnesses, and who can marry you?
- Witnesses: At least 2 witnesses besides the officiant (19-A §656.2).
- Who can officiate: Residents: judges, Maine Bar attorneys or registered officiants (5 §90-G). Any residence: ordained ministers, clergy or persons authorized to preach. Non-residents authorized in their own state: temporary certificate for $100 (19-A §655).
Maine counties with an AltarPlan guide
We haven't published Maine 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 Maine
- Confirm where to apply: Town or city clerk where either of you lives, or the State Registrar of Vital Statistics; if neither lives in Maine, any municipality.
- Gather your ID: Notice of intention form (VS2-A) signed before the clerk or a notary; the clerk must be satisfied as to identity.
- Get your payment ready: $40 (state intentions/license fee).
- Count the waiting period: No waiting period: the license can be issued as soon as the intentions are filed.
- Marry within the validity period: 90 days from filing the intentions (19-A §652.3).
- Before you go, confirm everything with the office that issues the license: fees and hours change.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Maine marriage license valid anywhere in the state?
Anywhere in Maine (19-A §651.1).
What is the minimum age to marry in Maine?
18, with no exceptions since September 25, 2025 (19-A §652.8). Emancipated minors are treated as adults.
Who can officiate a wedding in Maine?
Residents: judges, Maine Bar attorneys or registered officiants (5 §90-G). Any residence: ordained ministers, clergy or persons authorized to preach. Non-residents authorized in their own state: temporary certificate for $100 (19-A §655).
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
- Maine Legislature, MRS Title 19-A ch. 23 (generated May 10, 2026) (opens in a new tab) Accessed Nov 4, 2026.
- Maine CDC / DHHS, Planning your marriage in Maine (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.