South Carolina Marriage
Tying the knot in South Carolina requires a valid South Carolina marriage license. Minors must get the consent of their parents before the state will issue a marriage license. South Carolina also recognizes common law marriages. The details on establishing a common law marriage, as well as the other requirements of South Carolina marriage laws are identified below.
South Carolina Marriage Consent Laws
- With Parental Consent: 16 and 17 year-olds can marry in South Carolina only with the consent of a parent.
- Without Parental Consent: Adults 18 and older need not obtain parental consent to marry in South Carolina.
South Carolina Common Law Marriage
South Carolina continues to recognize common law marriages. Establishing a common law marriage requires proof of just two elements: (1) present intent of the parties, such as a public declaration of intent to be married, and (2) a mutual agreement between the parties to be husband and wife.
South Carolina Marriage License
- Residency: No residency requirement.
- Tests: None.
- Identification Required: Driver’s license or other standard form of identification, plus a social security number.
- Appearance/Proxy: Proxy marriages are not allowed in South Carolina. Both parties must be present at the time of the application.
- Previous Marriages: Previously married individuals do not have to show any proof that the marriage ended.
- Length of License: No expiration.
- Fees: Vary by county, but generally vary from $50 to $70.
- Authorized South Carolina Officiants: Judges, justices of the peace, and any ordained minister.