Beaufort County Marriage Records Request
Beaufort County Marriage Records are maintained by the Beaufort County Probate Court in South Carolina. The court operates two locations for marriage license services. The main office is in Beaufort, and a satellite office serves Hilton Head Island. Both locations require appointments for marriage license applications. The court follows all South Carolina state laws regarding marriage license issuance under Title 20 Chapter 1.
Beaufort County Quick Facts
Beaufort County Probate Court Marriage Records
The Beaufort County Probate Court maintains all Marriage Records for the county. This popular coastal destination serves residents and visitors seeking marriage licenses. The court provides services through two convenient locations. Both offices operate by appointment only.
The main office sits in Beaufort at the county courthouse. The Hilton Head Island satellite office serves the southern part of the county. Both locations offer the same services. Choose the office most convenient for your schedule.
Appointments are mandatory at both locations. Call ahead to schedule your visit. The court does not accept walk-ins. This policy ensures efficient service for all applicants.
| Beaufort Office |
Beaufort County Probate Court 102 Ribaut Road #100 Beaufort, SC Appointments: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Last appointment at 3:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Hilton Head Office |
Hilton Head Island Satellite Office 539 William Hilton Parkway Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 Phone: 843-255-5866 Available: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (last appt at 3:00 PM) |
| Information Hotline | 843-255-5875 (recorded information) |
Beaufort County Marriage License Requirements
Obtaining a marriage license in Beaufort County requires advance planning. The court has specific procedures. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth application process.
Both parties must appear in person together. No exceptions exist to this rule. You cannot apply by mail, phone, or fax. Proxy applications are not accepted under any circumstances.
Valid government-issued photo ID is required. Acceptable forms include driver's licenses, state ID cards, military IDs, or passports. Non-citizens must provide current visas with alien registration numbers. All identification must be current and valid.
Social Security numbers are mandatory for U.S. citizens. Bring documentation showing your number. Resident aliens without Social Security numbers must provide alien identification numbers. The court needs this information for record-keeping.
Applicants aged 16 or 17 need parental consent. A consenting parent must accompany the minor. Additional documentation is required for minors. Bring a certified birth certificate or hospital certificate issued within one year of birth.
Note: No blood tests or physical examinations are required for marriage licenses in Beaufort County or anywhere in South Carolina.
Beaufort County Marriage Records Fees
Beaufort County uses a tiered fee structure for marriage licenses. The amount depends on residency status. Understanding these fees helps you prepare correct payment.
Category I applies to Beaufort County residents. The fee is $50.00. You must reside within the county boundaries. Bring proof of residency if requested.
Category II covers South Carolina residents outside Beaufort County. The fee is $75.00. You live in the state but not in Beaufort County. Any South Carolina county qualifies for this rate.
Category III is for out-of-state residents. The fee is $95.00. This applies to residents of other states or countries. Active-duty military personnel are deemed residents where their installation is located.
Cash payment is required in exact change. The court does not accept debit or credit cards. Personal checks are not accepted. Bring the correct amount for your category.
Certified copies of marriage licenses cost $5.00 each. Mail requests must include a certified bank check or money order. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Personal checks are not accepted for mail orders.
Photocopy fees apply for document requests. Court staff copies cost 50 cents per page. Self-service copies cost 30 cents per page. Marriage record corrections cost $6.75.
Note: All fees are non-refundable. No refunds are issued if the application is not approved or the license is not used.
How to Obtain Beaufort County Marriage Records
You can obtain Beaufort County Marriage Records through several methods. The county provides options for different needs. Choose the approach that works best for your situation.
Certified copies are available by mail. Send your request to Beaufort County Probate Court, P.O. Box 1083, Beaufort, SC 29901. Include the applicants' names and marriage date. Enclose payment by certified bank check or money order. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
In-person requests work for immediate needs. Visit either the Beaufort or Hilton Head office. Call first to confirm hours and availability. Bring valid identification and payment.
SC DHEC Vital Records provides another option. They maintain marriage certificates from July 1950 onward. Their records include all Beaufort County marriages. Contact their Columbia office for ordering information.
Hilton Head Island is a popular wedding destination. Many couples choose this scenic location. The satellite office makes obtaining licenses convenient. Plan ahead due to the appointment requirement.
Marriage Ceremony Information for Beaufort County
After obtaining your license, you need a valid ceremony. South Carolina law specifies who can perform marriages. Understanding these rules ensures your marriage is legal.
Ordained ministers can officiate weddings. This includes clergy from recognized denominations. The minister must be authorized to perform marriages. No special registration with the court is required.
South Carolina Notaries Public may perform wedding ceremonies. This is unique to South Carolina. Notaries in other states cannot perform marriages. Ensure your notary is commissioned in South Carolina.
Other authorized officiants include judges and magistrates. South Carolina and federal court judges qualify. Chief or spiritual leaders of recognized Native American Indian entities can officiate. Officers authorized to administer oaths in the state may also perform ceremonies.
Note: South Carolina does not have Justices of the Peace who can perform marriages. Do not attempt to use a Justice of the Peace from another state.
No witnesses are required for marriage ceremonies in South Carolina. This simplifies the ceremony process. You only need an authorized officiant and the couple. However, you may choose to have witnesses if desired.
The ceremony must take place in South Carolina. You cannot use a Beaufort County license in another state. However, you can marry in any South Carolina county. The ceremony location need not be in Beaufort County.
South Carolina State Marriage Records Resources
Beaufort County couples can access state-level Marriage Records resources. These complement the county's services. State offices provide additional ordering options.
SC DHEC Vital Records maintains statewide marriage certificates. Their collection covers July 1950 to present. Beaufort County records are included. Order online through VitalChek for fastest service.
The South Carolina Code governs marriage laws statewide. Title 20 Chapter 1 establishes requirements. All 46 counties follow these laws. This ensures consistent practices across the state.
The South Carolina Department of Archives and History holds historical records. Some materials may relate to Beaufort County. Visit their Columbia facility for research assistance. Their website provides research guidance.
Nearby South Carolina Counties
If you cannot locate Marriage Records in Beaufort County, check neighboring counties. Couples sometimes marry in adjacent areas. These counties may hold the records you seek.