The Clerk of Court issues marriage licenses. For a license to be valid, the following conditions must be met: 

• The marriage must be performed within the Commonwealth of Virginia (but not necessarily in Pittsylvania County) 
• The marriage ceremony must be performed by a minister or civil celebrant that has been authorized by a Circuit Court within the Commonwealth of Virginia. 
• The marriage must be performed within 60 days after the issuance of the license. 

According to Virginia Code 20-48, the minimum age at which someone can marry is 18, unless a minor has been emancipated by court order.

How to Apply 

Those that are interested in applying for a marriage license must appear together at the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court with valid government-issued identification to complete an application form. Both parties must apply for the license together. 

The fee is $30 and may be paid by cash, personal check, or credit card. The license is valid only in the Commonwealth of Virginia and must be used within sixty days of issuance or returned to the Clerk’s Office for filing.

There is no waiting period to be married after you receive your marriage license. The marriage ceremony must be performed by a person authorized to perform ceremonies by a Virginia Circuit Court. After the marriage ceremony, all copies of the marriage license are to be returned back to the Circuit Court in which they were issued to be able to obtain a certified copy for your records.

Certified copies of marriage licenses issued in this office may be obtained for $2.50. You may also request a copy of the marriage license from the Division of Vital Records.

Legal Notice

The Office of the Clerk of Circuit Court is committed to providing excellent customer service and will assist you with any questions or concerns about our policies and procedures.

However, we are prohibited by law from giving legal advice, restating the law, or recommending legal action. The information presented on this page is meant to educate the public about the procedural matters handled by this office. Questions regarding the interpretation of the law should be directed to an attorney licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Nothing on this page should be interpreted as legal advice or a legal remedy for a particular circumstance.