Get your Marriage License in Beaufort County
So you’ve decided on the Lowcountry for your Big Day – now for the logistics of how you can get down the aisle and make it official! Follow this how-to guide to get your marriage license in Beaufort County and get one step closer to finishing your to-do list and being wedding day ready!
PHOTO CREDIT : JOSH MOREHOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY
The Application
Both parties must be physically present to apply for a marriage license in Beaufort County. No applications will be accepted if they are mailed, faxed or emailed. When you come in to apply, you’ll need a valid government issued ID, like a driver’s license, passport or military ID and make sure you have your social security number memorized or on hand. A 24-hour waiting period will keep you from getting your license immediately, so make sure if you are travelling or applying locally, you plan for this down time.
Where can you get an Application?
The Beaufort County Complex at 102 Ribaut Road, Beaufort, SC 29902, is open 9:00 am until 4:00 pm and no appointment is necessary for marriage licenses. If south of the broad is more convenient, the Hilton Head satellite office is located at the County Government Center South at 539 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. SC 29938. The satellite office is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm, but require appointments. Call 843-255-5866 to schedule an appointment to apply.
What will it Cost you?
If you are both residents of Beaufort County, you can get a license for $50.00. If at least one of you is a resident of South Carolina, but not Beaufort County, your license will cost you $75.00. If you are both from out of state, the fee is $95.00. The offices only accept cash and it must be exact change, so check your wallets and be sure your prepared before you head to the probate offices.
Who Can Marry You?
The License allows for the following people to preside over your ceremony: members of the clergy, a chief or spiritual leader of a recognized Native American entity, and any officers authorized to administer oaths in this State, for example South Carolina State & Federal Court Judges and any South Carolina Notaries Public. South Carolina does not have justices of the peace.
The License
You’ll need to make arrangements to pick up your marriage license for your ceremony, as it will need to be signed by your officiate. After your blissful “I Do’s,” make sure you have a plan to get your license returned to Beaufort County Probate Court to be properly recorded and filed. You’ll want to make sure you apply for certified copies from the county as well, as you begin the name change process, at $5.00 a piece, pick up at least 3 copies to provide to the social security administration, the state department if you have a passport, and the DMV for driver’s licenses.
