Charleston County Marriage Records Search

Charleston County marriage records date back to 1879 and are maintained by the Probate Court. Charleston County is the third most populous county in South Carolina. The Marriage License Division provides both in-person services and online record access. Couples can apply for licenses at the Judicial Center on Broad Street. The county serves residents throughout the historic Charleston area and surrounding islands.

Charleston County Probate Court Marriage License Division

The Charleston County Marriage License Division is part of the Probate Court. This office is located in the Judicial Center at 100 Broad Street in downtown Charleston. Staff issue marriage licenses and maintain records for the entire county. The office serves thousands of couples each year.

Charleston County has one of the most comprehensive marriage record databases in South Carolina. Records from 1879 to the present are available for search. This includes over 140 years of marriage history for the region.

The Probate Court office is on the fourth floor of the Judicial Center. Both parties must appear together to apply for a marriage license. The office provides efficient service for both residents and visitors.

Charleston County Online Marriage Records Search

Charleston County provides an online database for searching marriage records. This system covers licenses from 1879 to the present. It is one of the most extensive online marriage record resources in South Carolina.

The online search allows you to look up records by name. You can enter the groom's last name or the bride's last name. The system also accepts first name and middle name searches.

Wildcard searches are available using the percent sign. This helps when you are unsure of exact spellings. Place the % symbol before your search term for broader results.

Search results display in a grid format. You will see the case number and party names. The filing date and case status are also shown. Click the plus icon for detailed record information.

Note: The online database provides index information only. Certified copies must be requested separately from the Probate Court.

How to Apply for a Marriage License in Charleston County

Applying for a marriage license in Charleston County requires both parties to appear in person. The process follows South Carolina state law. The Probate Court staff will guide you through each step.

Visit the Marriage License Division at the Judicial Center. Both applicants must bring valid photo identification. Accepted forms include driver's licenses, passports, and state ID cards.

Complete the marriage license application with accurate information. Staff will verify your identities and process the paperwork. The application asks for basic personal information and parental data.

Under S.C. Code Ann. § 20-1-220, a twenty-four hour waiting period applies. Charleston County cannot issue the license until one day after application. Plan your wedding timeline with this requirement in mind.

The license fee in Charleston County is $50. Payment methods may vary, so contact the office to confirm. Bring exact change when possible.

How to Get Certified Copies of Charleston County Marriage Records

Charleston County provides certified copies of marriage licenses. These documents are often needed for legal purposes. The Probate Court processes copy requests in person and by mail.

Certified copies cost $5 each in Charleston County. Payment can be made by credit card online. In-person payments accept cash, money order, or credit card.

To request copies, provide both full names and the marriage date. This information helps staff locate the correct record. Processing typically takes one business day.

Copies can be mailed to your address. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope with mail requests. Rush processing may be available for an additional fee.

Certified copies bear the official seal of Charleston County. They are accepted for name changes, insurance updates, and other legal needs.

Historical Charleston County Marriage Records

Charleston County has preserved marriage records since 1879. These historical documents provide valuable genealogical information. The collection includes both pre-1911 and post-1911 records.

Pre-1911 records predate statewide registration requirements. Charleston County maintained these records locally. They are now part of the official archives.

The Charleston County Public Library provides access to genealogy databases. Visit their website for online research tools. The library has resources for tracing family history in Charleston.

The South Carolina Department of Archives and History also holds historical records. Their collection supplements what Charleston County maintains locally. Researchers can access both sources for complete information.

Digital copies of old marriage records are increasingly available. Check online databases for scanned documents. The Charleston County online search includes records back to 1879.

Charleston County Public Library Marriage Records Resources

The Charleston County Public Library supports marriage record research. Their databases include historical and genealogical resources. Residents can access these tools with a library card.

The library provides online databases for remote research. You can search from home at any time. Visit the CCPL website to explore available resources.

Library staff can assist with genealogy questions. They offer guidance on using research databases. Workshops and classes are available for beginners.

Physical collections at library branches include local history materials. These may contain marriage announcements and family records. Check with your local branch for specific holdings.

Note: Library resources complement official court records. For certified copies, contact the Probate Court directly.

Charleston County Marriage License Requirements

Charleston County follows South Carolina law for marriage licenses. Both parties must meet basic requirements. The Probate Court verifies eligibility before issuing licenses.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Minors require parental consent and court approval. Contact the court for information on underage marriage procedures.

No blood tests are required in South Carolina. This simplifies the application process. You do not need medical documentation.

Previous marriages must be legally dissolved. Bring divorce decrees or death certificates if applicable. The court needs proof that prior marriages ended.

There is no residency requirement for marriage in Charleston County. Out-of-state couples can apply here. Your license will be valid throughout South Carolina.

Charleston County Marriage Records for Destination Weddings

Charleston County is a popular destination for weddings. The historic city provides a romantic backdrop. Couples from across the country choose Charleston for their special day.

The Marriage License Division serves many out-of-state couples. Staff are experienced with destination wedding needs. They can answer questions about license requirements.

Apply for your license at least 24 hours before the ceremony. Remember the mandatory waiting period. Plan your arrival in Charleston accordingly.

Your Charleston County marriage license is valid statewide. You can marry on the beach, in a historic church, or at a plantation venue. The license works anywhere in South Carolina.

After your wedding, request certified copies for your records. You will need these for name changes and legal matters. Order extras to keep on file.

Note: Some popular wedding venues book years in advance. Plan early for your Charleston County wedding.

Cities in Charleston County

Charleston County includes several cities and towns. All marriage licenses for county residents are issued by the Charleston County Probate Court.

Charleston is the largest city in Charleston County. The Probate Court serves all communities within the county boundaries.

Nearby Counties

Charleston County borders several other South Carolina counties. Marriage licenses must be obtained in the county where the ceremony occurs. Verify your wedding location before applying.

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