Frequently Asked Questions

If either applicant is a resident of New Jersey, the application is made in the municipality where they reside.

If neither of the applicants is a resident of New Jersey, they must apply in the municipality where the ceremony will take place. This license is valid only in that municipality.

Documents Required from the Couple to Apply for the License Are

• Proof of identity: driver’s license, valid passport, or federal or state identification
• Proof of current address
• A witness over 18 years has to be present at the time of application
• Your social security card or social security number (this is a legal requirement for U.S. citizens and are kept confidential by N.J.S.A. 37:1-17)

Suggested Documents (Not Required but Help with the Preparation of the License)

• A certified copy of your birth certificate to identify the names of your parents and your birth data
• If one or both were divorced, your divorce decree or civil annulment documents
• If your previous partner has died, please provide the death certificate

Additional Information

• International documents must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
• There is a waiting period of 72 hours prior to issuing a license. The waiting period begins at the time you apply and is mandatory.
• No blood tests are required to apply for a marriage or civil union in the state of New Jersey.
• The license is valid for 30 days after it is retrieved, and the application is valid for six months from the date it was accepted.

The marriage or civil union license requires a non-refundable payment of $28 when applying for the license. No personal checks are accepted. Cash or money orders addressed to “City of Trenton” are acceptable. Fees are being waived effective July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.

Applications for a marriage or civil union license are taken by APPOINTMENTS ONLY, Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 2 to 3 p.m.

Please call us at 609-989-3236 if you need to speak to a representative.