How to Apply for a Marriage License in Alabama
Alabama is different. no marriage LICENSE since Aug 2019 — notarized certificate recorded by probate court
Alabama eliminated the traditional marriage license process on August 29, 2019. Instead of obtaining a license, couples now execute a notarized Marriage Certificate form, which must be recorded with the probate court in any Alabama county within 30 days of signing. Both parties are required to present a government-issued photo ID when signing the certificate before a notary public. The certificate may be notarized anywhere, but recording must take place at the county probate court office.
Recording fees vary by county and are set locally. Examples include $73 in Mobile County, $84.50 in Jefferson County, and $89 in Madison County. Couples should contact their intended county probate court directly to confirm the specific recording fee, required forms, hours of operation, and any additional procedural details before proceeding.
- Apply at county probate court (records the certificate).
- Bring government photo ID for both parties.
- Pay the license fee (varies by county (~$73-$89 recording fee; NO license issued)); this is county-set, so confirm the amount locally.
Confirm with the issuing office. Hours, appointment rules and accepted documents differ by county. Informational only — not legal advice.
Plan the paperwork around the ceremony
Time the license application to your wedding date: most states have a validity window and some have a short waiting period between issuing the license and the ceremony. Apply early enough that the license is valid on the day — and confirm the exact windows with the issuing county clerk before you lock in plans.
