FAQs • Do we need any witnesses present at the ceremony?

Do we need any witnesses present at the ceremony?: Massachusetts law does not require any witness to be present at the ceremony.

Marriage Licenses

1. How do we apply for a marriage license?: You must both apply together, in person, for a marriage license. Both parties must have photo identification. This applies to both residents and non-residents of the Commonwealth. According to Massachusetts law, you must jointly file intentions to marry, and you may do so with the city or town clerk in any community in the state. If a person is in the military, intentions may be filed by either party, providing one is a Massachusetts resident. A marriage license is valid for 60 days from the time the intentions are filed and may be used in any city or town in the state. It is not valid outside of Massachusetts.

2. Is there a waiting period from the date of application to the date the license is issued?: There is a mandatory three-day waiting period.

3. May we marry before the three days for good reason?: Yes, you can obtain a court waiver after filing intentions.

4. What is the cost of a marriage license?: A marriage license costs $35.00 in Manchester-by-the-Sea.

5. How old must we be to get married?: Massachusetts residents must be age 18 to marry. If either party is under 18, a court order from a probate or district court must be obtained before intentions can be filed.

6. Do we need to have blood tests?: No. That requirement was repealed as of January, 2005.

7. What if one or both of us has been divorced?: You are not required to present a divorce certificate when filing intentions to marry. However, you should be aware of any waiting period post divorce before you are able to re-marry. It varies by state but in Massachusetts it is a 90 day waiting period.

8. Do we need any witnesses present at the ceremony?: Massachusetts law does not require any witness to be present at the ceremony.

9. What should we do if an out-of-state member of the clergy is performing the marriage?: The clergyperson must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Secretary of State's office prior to the ceremony. For further information contact:

Division of Public Records
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-727-2836

10. Who should I call if I have more questions?: You can contact the Town Clerk, Christine Dixon at (978)-526-2040 townclerk@manchester.ma.us