Step by Step
How to do it
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Both parties visit any Alabama County Probate Court (you do not need to apply in the county where you live or where the ceremony will take place)
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Present valid government-issued photo ID and Social Security numbers for both parties
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If either party was divorced within the last 60 days, bring a certified copy of the divorce decree
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Pay the fee and receive your marriage certificate form
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Both parties sign the certificate before a notary public (no officiant required in Alabama since 2019)
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File the notarized certificate with the County Probate Court within 30 days of the last signature
Details
What you need to know
Required Docs
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, military ID) for both parties
- Social Security numbers for both parties
- Certified copy of divorce decree if divorced within last 60 days
- If under 18: certified birth certificate; both parents with ID must be present (or legal guardian)
- If a foreign national: alien registration documentation or proof containing alien registration number
Fee
$70-$104 (varies by county)
Waiting Period
None for Alabama residents; 60-day waiting period after divorce is final; non-residents being married by a county official may wait 3 days (verify with county)
Processing Time
Same day
LICENSE VALIDITY: Must be filed within 30 days of last signature
Online Option
No - must appear in person at Probate Court
Where to Go
County Probate Court - any county in Alabama
County-specific variations apply
Fee varies by county ($70-$104). Some counties may have specific hours or appointment requirements. Verify fee and hours with your specific county Probate Court before visiting.
Alabama Notes
Important state-specific details
- Alabama eliminated the officiant requirement in 2019. Couples complete a marriage certificate, have both signatures notarized, and file with the Probate Court. No ceremony or officiant is legally required.
- Alabama does not recognize common-law marriages entered on or after January 1, 2017. Common-law marriages entered before that date remain valid.
- No residency requirement - anyone can marry in Alabama regardless of where they live.
- No blood test required.
- Witnesses are not required.
Official Source
State office contact
State Office
Alabama Center for Health Statistics (for certified marriage record copies after filing) - alabamapublichealth.gov/vitalrecords | (334) 206-5418