Charleston Marriage Records Search
Charleston marriage records are maintained by the Charleston County Probate Court. The city is home to about 150,000 residents and serves as the county seat. The Marriage License Division handles all applications and keeps records dating back to 1879. Couples can apply online or visit the office on Broad Street in the historic district.
Charleston Quick Facts
Charleston County Probate Court Marriage License Division
The Charleston County Probate Court is the main office for marriage records in Charleston. The Marriage License Division sits on the fourth floor of the Judicial Center. Staff help couples apply for licenses and search old records. The office serves all of Charleston County.
Charleston has one of the oldest marriage record collections in South Carolina. Files from 1879 to today are on file. That is more than 140 years of marriage history. You can search many of these records online through the county database.
Both parties must come to the office to apply. The court checks ID and takes payment. The staff explains the 24-hour wait rule. They also tell you how to get certified copies after the wedding.
| Court |
Charleston County Marriage License Division Judicial Center, Suite 469 100 Broad Street Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: (843) 958-5183 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Fax | (843) 958-5191 |
| Website | charlestoncounty.org |
The Judicial Center is in downtown Charleston near the historic district. You can park at nearby garages. Bring valid photo ID for both applicants. The office gets busy on Fridays and before holidays.
The Historic Charleston Foundation helps preserve the city's rich heritage. Charleston offers many historic venues for weddings. Visit historiccharleston.org to learn more about locations where couples hold ceremonies.
Charleston Marriage Records Online Search
Charleston County provides an online search tool for marriage records. The system covers licenses from 1879 to today. You can search by last name or first name. The database is free to use.
To search Charleston marriage records online, visit the county website. Enter the name of either party. You can use wildcards with the percent sign. This helps when you are not sure of the spelling.
The search results show basic facts. You will see the case number and filing date. The names of both parties appear too. Click the plus sign for more details about each record.
Note: The online search only shows index data. It does not give you certified copies. You must contact the Probate Court for official documents.
How to Apply for a Marriage License in Charleston
Getting a marriage license in Charleston takes a few steps. Both parties must apply together. You can start online or come to the office in person.
The Charleston County Probate Court uses the LOVE system. This stands for Lowcountry Online Virtual Exchange. You can fill out the form online 24 hours a day. Both parties must still visit the office to show ID and pay the fee.
South Carolina law requires a 24-hour wait. You cannot get the license until one day after you apply. Plan your wedding with this in mind. The license is good anywhere in the state.
The fee for a marriage license in Charleston is $70. You can pay by cash, money order, or credit card. Bring exact change if you pay with cash.
You do not need a blood test. You do not have to live in South Carolina. But you must use the license in the state. Out-of-state couples often pick Charleston for destination weddings.
Historical Charleston Marriage Records
Charleston marriage records go back to 1879. This was before the state required all counties to keep records. Charleston County kept its own files. These old records are now part of the official archives.
The Charleston County Public Library can help with genealogy research. They have tools to search old marriage records. You can visit any branch for help. The South Carolina Room has special collections.
The South Carolina Department of Archives and History also holds records. Their files add to what Charleston County keeps. You may need to check both places for full family history.
How to Get Certified Copies of Charleston Marriage Records
After you marry in Charleston, you may need certified copies. These prove your marriage for name changes and other needs. The Probate Court sells certified copies for $5 each.
You can order copies in person or by mail. For mail orders, send a request with both names and the wedding date. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Add payment by money order or check.
In-person requests are faster. Bring ID and payment to the Marriage License Division. Staff can print your copies while you wait. Most requests take one business day.
Certified copies have the official seal of Charleston County. Plain copies cost less but may not work for all needs. Ask the office which type you need.
Charleston Marriage Records for Destination Weddings
Charleston is a top spot for destination weddings. The historic city draws couples from across the country. The Marriage License Division helps many out-of-state couples each year.
Apply at least 24 hours before your ceremony. Remember the waiting period. The license works anywhere in South Carolina. You can wed on the beach, in a church, or at a plantation.
The Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau has wedding info. They list venues and planners. Visit charlestoncvb.com for help with your Charleston wedding.
Order extra certified copies after the wedding. You will need them for name changes and other tasks. The Probate Court can mail copies to your home.
Charleston Marriage Equality History
Charleston made history in November 2014. Charleston County Probate Judge Irvin Condon issued the first same-sex marriage license in South Carolina. This was a major step for marriage equality in the state.
Today all couples follow the same steps in Charleston. The process is fair for everyone. The Probate Court serves all residents and visitors with equal care.
Charleston County Marriage Records
Charleston is in Charleston County. All marriage licenses for city residents come from the county Probate Court. For more about the court system, fees, and other county resources, visit the Charleston County page.
Nearby South Carolina Cities
Other cities in the region also use the Charleston County Probate Court for marriage licenses. Pick a city below to learn more.