Do You Need a Wedding Officiant in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia law requires every marriage to be under a license and solemnized — meaning performed by a person authorized to do so. A signed license by itself does not create a marriage.

That is true whether you are having 200 guests and a string quartet or standing in a courthouse parking lot with no one but the two of you. Someone authorized has to perform the marriage and certify it.

What that looks like with us

Our $150 Paperwork Wedding exists for couples who need exactly that and nothing more. Our custom ceremonies exist for couples who want the moment, the words and the people.

The Virginia marriage license basics

• A marriage license is issued by the clerk (or deputy clerk) of any Virginia circuit court, and there is no residency requirement — but the marriage itself must take place in Virginia.
• Both applicants must be at least 18 years old and present valid government-issued photo identification.
• The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If it is not used in that window, a new license is required.
• Fees are set locally (commonly $30) and payment methods vary by court, so check with the clerk's office you plan to use.
• Virginia does not require blood tests, and witnesses are not required for the license itself.
• The person who officiates must be authorized to perform marriages in Virginia, certifies the facts of the marriage, and files the record with the office that issued the license within five days after the ceremony.

Court hours, appointment requirements and accepted payment methods differ from courthouse to courthouse. Always confirm the current details directly with the circuit court clerk's office you plan to visit. Nothing here is legal advice.