Marriage License Requirements in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has no county government for most purposes — marriage licenses (technically a “Notice of Intention to Marry”) are issued by individual city and town clerks, not a county office. Requirements below apply statewide.
| Minimum age to marry | 18 without exception. Massachusetts eliminated marriage under 18 entirely in 2022. |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | 3 days after the Notice of Intention to Marry is filed, waivable only by a court order. |
| License validity | 60 days from the date the Intentions are filed. |
| Blood test required | No |
| Documents you’ll need | Proof of age — note that several Massachusetts city/town clerks do not accept a driver’s license or state ID for this purpose, only a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration document. You’ll also provide your parents’ names, including mother’s maiden name. |
What a Massachusetts marriage license typically costs
In our researched cities, the fee for filing a Notice of Intention to Marry runs $35 to $40, and several city/town clerks accept only cash or check, not cards. Select your city below to confirm.
Counties we cover in Massachusetts
Requirements above are set by Massachusetts state law and apply the same way across the state. The fee, hours, and exact application process are set by the local city or town clerk — select your area above for those specifics.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Massachusetts marriage license cost?
In the cities we’ve researched, $35–$40 to file the Notice of Intention to Marry. Several offices accept only cash or check, so confirm the accepted payment method for your specific city or town before you go.
Why does Massachusetts use a “Notice of Intention to Marry” instead of a license?
It’s largely a naming difference — Massachusetts has no county government for most purposes, so marriage licensing is handled by individual city and town clerks rather than a county office, and the document is formally called a Notice of Intention to Marry.
Can we use a driver’s license as proof of age?
It depends on the office — some Massachusetts city/town clerks do not accept a driver’s license or state ID for this purpose and require a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration document instead. Check your specific city’s guide before you go.
Is a blood test required to get married in Massachusetts?
No. Massachusetts does not require a blood test or medical exam.
See how Massachusetts’s fees compare to other states → Getting married in a different county than you live in →