How to get married in Fairfax, VA | Northern Virginia Elopement Photographer

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How to get married in Fairfax, VA | Northern Virginia Elopement Photographer | Courthouse Photographer & Officiant, Marriage license cost

January 18, 2026

Congratulations y’all! I’m so hyped that y’all are getting married!

Step-by-step guide to getting married in Fairfax, VA.

Here is the simplest version of how to do it.

  1. Complete the Fairfax County Marriage License form online. Fairfax Marriage License Application.
  2. Visit the Fairfax County Courthouse in person to submit your form and finalize your license application.
  3. Both individuals must appear in person and bring valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
  4. Pay the $30 marriage license fee (cash or credit accepted).
  5. Decide on an officiant or choose to hire a civil celebrant.
  6. Get married!
  7. Perform your ceremony and ensure the officiant signs and returns the completed license.
  8. Drop off the signed license at the Courthouse to obtain your official marriage certificate.
Couple getting married in Fairfax, VA

Marriage License Requirements

To legally marry in Fairfax County, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license. The process is simple:

  • Complete the form online at Fairfax Marriage License Application or visit the Courthouse in person.

  • Bring valid, government-issued photo identification for both individuals.

  • Pay the $30 license fee when you visit the Courthouse.

  • No waiting period! Once issued, your license is valid immediately and remains valid for 60 days.

  • Civil ceremonies are performed Monday through Friday by appointment only.

  • The Courthouse is located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, VA 22030.

  • On the day of your ceremony, bring your marriage license and photo identification.

  • Courthouse weddings are brief but intimate and perfect for couples who want a straightforward experience.

  • Ensure the officiant is authorized by the state of Virginia.

  • For personal officiants, they must apply to the Circuit Court for a one-time authorization.

  • Provide the officiant with your marriage license on your wedding day. They must sign and return it to the Courthouse after the ceremony.

Marriage guide photo for Fairfax, VA

Ceremony options in Fairfax, VA

  • Complete the form online at Fairfax Marriage License Application or visit the Courthouse in person.
  • Bring valid, government-issued photo identification for both individuals.
  • Pay the $30 license fee when you visit the Courthouse.
  • No waiting period! Once issued, your license is valid immediately and remains valid for 60 days.

The Fairfax County Courthouse is a convenient and popular option for civil ceremonies. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Civil ceremonies are performed Monday through Friday by appointment only.
  • The Courthouse is located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, VA 22030.
  • On the day of your ceremony, bring your marriage license and photo identification.
  • Courthouse weddings are brief but intimate and perfect for couples who want a straightforward experience.

Virginia allows you to hire an officiant or even designate a friend or family member to perform your ceremony. Here’s how:

After your ceremony

After the ceremony, make sure the signed license is filed correctly and request a certified copy if you need one for legal records or name changes.

Wedding photo after the ceremony in Fairfax, VA

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

1\. Do we need to be residents of Fairfax County to marry there?

No, you don't need to be residents. Fairfax County welcomes couples from anywhere to marry here.

2\. Can we get our marriage license and marry on the same day?

Yes, Virginia does not have a waiting period. As soon as your license is issued, you can marry.

3\. What identification do we need to bring?

You'll need government-issued photo identification, like a driver's license or passport, for both individuals.

4\. How long is the marriage license valid?

The license is valid for 60 days from the date it's issued.

5\. How do we get the official marriage certificate?

After the officiant submits the completed license, you can request a certified copy from the Clerk's office for a small fee. !couples getting married in Fairfax, VA

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Check Availability

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