cityofboston.gov - Official Web Site of the City of Boston - Thomas M. Menino, Mayor

All persons who wish to be married in Massachusetts must have a marriage license issued within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Out-of-State marriage licenses cannot be used in Massachusetts.

Application Process

1. The couple must apply in person at the Registry Division in Room 213 of Boston City Hall for a marriage intention application. This requirement applies to both residents and non-residents.

2. Federal Statutes requires the collection of Social Security numbers (SSNs) at the time of application.

3. In Boston, proof of age is required if under the age of (24) twenty-four. For proof of age, a certified birth record or passport is required.

4. There is a (3) three day waiting period to receive your license. The license is valid for (60) sixty days from the day you originally file and may be used in any city or town within the Commonwealth. This license cannot be used outside of this state. A waiver of the (3) three day waiting period can be applied for at the city or town clerk's office where you apply and then presented to a court of competent jurisdiction for approval.

5. The person who performs the ceremony of marriage must sign the license and return it to the city or town where it was issued. That is the only place where the license will be registered.

6. The fee for a Marriage License in Boston is $50.00 cash only and must be paid at the time of filing intentions.

7. After the marriage, a certified copy of the of marriage certificate may be obtained from the Registry Division in person or by mail.

For further information call (617) 635-4179.

Hours of Operation
Monday and Tuesday between 9:00a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Thursday and Friday between 9:00a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Closed Wednesdays and Weekends

Visit the Parks Department for information about
weddings or photographs in Boston's parks.