Frequently Asked Questions
Real questions from couples we’ve worked with about getting married in South Carolina, marriage licenses, notary signings, and our services.
How do I get married in Columbia, SC?
Get a marriage license from Richland or Lexington County Probate Court (both spouses appear in person with photo ID), then book a licensed officiant to perform and sign the ceremony. There’s no waiting period once the license is issued, so same-day ceremonies are possible.
Do we need witnesses to get married in South Carolina?
No. South Carolina does not require witnesses for a marriage ceremony.
Do we need a blood test to get married in SC?
No, South Carolina does not require a blood test.
Does a South Carolina marriage license expire?
No. South Carolina marriage licenses do not expire.
Can we get married the same day we get our marriage license?
Yes. Once the license itself is issued (after the county’s required 24-hour waiting period from application), there’s no additional waiting period to hold the ceremony.
Do we have to be South Carolina residents to get married here?
No, residency in South Carolina is not required.
How do I get a marriage license in Richland County?
Apply online through the Richland County Probate Court portal with a photo ID and proof of Social Security number (or a passport/visa for non-citizens). There’s a 24-hour waiting period after applying. The license is mailed (about a week) or can be picked up in person if you request that instead.
How much does a marriage license cost in South Carolina?
It varies by county. Richland County’s fee is $45.24; other counties range roughly from $30 to $75. Check with your specific county probate court for the current fee.
Can we write our own wedding vows?
Yes. South Carolina doesn’t require specific words — you can write your own vows or use traditional ones.
Is same-sex marriage legal in South Carolina?
Yes, same-sex marriage has been legal in South Carolina since 2014, and we perform ceremonies for any couple.
Is common law marriage still recognized in South Carolina?
No. The South Carolina Supreme Court abolished common law marriage on July 24, 2019. A marriage license and ceremony are required.
How much does a wedding officiant cost?
Officiant fees start at $90 for the Columbia and Lexington area and scale by travel distance. An exact quote is given after confirming your date, time, and location. See our full pricing page for details.
Can you just sign our marriage license without a ceremony?
Yes, this is a sign-and-go notary signing, starting around $40.
Do you offer wedding photography?
Yes, as a standalone service or combined with the officiant service.
Will we receive a marriage certificate in the mail after the ceremony?
No — South Carolina is unique here. Your marriage license itself becomes your Certificate of Marriage once signed by both of you and the officiant, and the officiant hands you your original copy directly after the ceremony. You won’t receive anything further from the probate court. The officiant returns the other two signed copies to the court (within 15 days by law). If you later need an additional certified copy for something like a Social Security name change, you can request one from the issuing court for a small fee, though it takes about a week to become available.
How do I change my name after getting married in SC?
Update Social Security first (by appointment, using a certified copy of your marriage certificate), wait 48 hours, then update your driver’s license or ID at the DMV, then update banks, credit cards, and voter registration.
What is an apostille and do I need one?
An apostille is needed if a South Carolina document, like your marriage certificate, will be used in a foreign country that’s part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It’s obtained through the SC Secretary of State.
What areas do you serve?
We serve South Carolina statewide, with base pricing for Columbia, Lexington, West Columbia, Cayce, and Irmo, and listed rates extending to Camden, Sumter, Florence, Spartanburg, Rock Hill, Aiken, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Greenville, and Charleston.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Deposits and payments are non-refundable, unless the same date and time slot is successfully rebooked with another couple.
What happens if our ceremony starts late?
There’s a $25 charge for every 15-minute period past the scheduled start time, and we reserve the right to decline the ceremony if it hasn’t started within 30 minutes of the scheduled time.
This information is general and not legal advice. Marriage license requirements and fees can change — please confirm current details with your county probate court.
Questions about your specific situation? Call 803-446-3405 or fill out our contact form.