Your engagement is a major life event filled with excitement and uncertainty. In addition to planning the wedding of your dreams and beginning the process of merging two lives, you should be sure to legalize your commitment by getting married. Since each city in the U.S. has a different process for getting a marriage license, follow these instructions to learn how to get married in Boston.
Apply in Person at Boston City Hall
The city of Boston requires couples to appear in person at the Registry Division of Boston City Hall which is currently located in room 213. Both applicants must provide social security numbers and be prepared to provide proof of age for any person under 24. Applicants generally must be at least 18 years old, but minors may get married with a court order from a probate or district court and the physical presence of a parent during the application process.
Waiting Period
Boston mandates a three day waiting period between the date of application for a marriage license and issuance of the license. Once issued, the license is valid for 60 days at any location within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The waiting period may be waived with a completed waiver application available at the Registry Division and court approval.
Payment
$50 in cash is required to apply for a marriage license in Boston. No other form of payment is accepted.
Witness Requirements
The officiant must sign the license. No additional witnesses are required for a Boston marriage license.
Hours of Operation
The Boston Registry Division keeps irregular business hours. Their standard hours of operation are:
Monday: 9am to 4pm
Tuesday: 9am to 4pm
Wednesday: CLOSED
Thursday: 9am to 4pm
Friday: 9am to 4pm
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED
Address
The address of Boston City Hall is:
Boston City Hall
One City Hall Square
Boston, MA 02201
The Registry Division (which handles marriage licenses) is located in room 213.
More Information
Additional details are available at the Registry Division for the City of Boston at:
http://www.cityofboston.gov/registry/marriage.asp
