Do I Need Witnesses To Get Married?
Simple Answer: NO
Witnesses are not required to get married in Pennsylvania if you have a traditional marriage license. Witnesses have not been a requirement to get married for many decades.
We get that question about 3-4 times a week and thought it would be good to make a post and share. If you do not have a traditional marriage license, then that means you’ve opted for a self-uniting license. A self-uniting license you will need 2 witnesses however an officiant or minister is not required. But The couple is then responsible to file and record their marriage with the county. This type of license also usually has an additional fee.
Witness Woes? We Clear the Air on PA Marriage Licenses!
Planning your Pennsylvania wedding? You might be surprised to learn that witnesses aren't always required! Here's the scoop:
Traditional Marriage License:
Witnesses? Nope! That's right, with a traditional marriage license, witnesses are not a requirement in Pennsylvania. Breathe a sigh of relief - your ceremony guest list just got a little more flexible.
Self-Uniting Marriage License:
Witnesses Needed:
Opting for a self-uniting license? This allows you to officiate your own ceremony, but it comes with a witness requirement. You'll need two reliable folks over 18 to sign the license, verifying they witnessed your vows.
Filing Responsibility:
Heads up! With a self-uniting license, the responsibility falls on you, the happy couple, to file and record the marriage with the county. There might also be an additional fee involved.
So, which license is right for you?
Traditional: Perfect if you have an officiant or minister officiating your ceremony and want some guest list freedom.
Self-Uniting: Ideal if you envision a personal ceremony without an officiant, but be prepared to handle the filing and witness requirements.
Planning tip: Discuss your desired ceremony format with your partner and check with your local county courthouse to understand specific fees and procedures for both license types.
Now go forth and celebrate your love, witness-free or with your favorite witnesses by your side!
On Getting a Marriage License:
Read on if you want to know how to get a marriage license in Pennsylvania
