When the Government Shuts Down, But Love Doesn’t
Wedding planning is stressful enough without politics getting involved but during a government shutdown, couples in Washington, D.C. face an unexpected challenge: the Marriage Bureau is closed, meaning no new marriage licenses can be issued.
If you were planning to legally marry in D.C. soon, here’s what the government shutdown marriage license pause means for you and how to work around it so your wedding day stays right on track.
Why You Can’t Get a DC Marriage License Right Now
When the federal government shuts down, nonessential court operations pause, including those at the D.C. Superior Court, which runs the Marriage Bureau.
That means couples can’t:
- Apply for a new marriage license
- Register to become an officiant
- Have a judge or court official perform their ceremony
Even if you have your venue, vendors, and every detail planned, you can’t legally marry in D.C. until the shutdown ends or emergency legislation is passed. (As of this writing, the Let Our Vows Endure Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 is being considered to allow the Mayor’s office to issue licenses temporarily but it’s not yet active.)
The silver lining: If you already have your marriage license, it won’t expire. DC licenses are valid indefinitely, so if you applied before the shutdown, you’re still good to go.
The Good News: Maryland and Virginia Are Still Open
Unlike D.C., Maryland and Virginia issue marriage licenses through state or county courts, which are not directly affected by the federal government shutdown.
That means you can still get legally married in either state—even if your wedding is taking place in D.C.
Below are step-by-step instructions and official resources to help you navigate these backup options.
Option 1: Get a Maryland Marriage License
If your ceremony is nearby (Bethesda, Silver Spring, Chevy Chase, or even a Maryland backyard), getting a Maryland marriage license is a simple workaround.
How It Works:
- You apply at the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office in the county where your ceremony will take place not where you live.
- The license becomes valid 48 hours after issue and is valid for 6 months.
- Only one applicant needs to appear in person, unless applying as a nonresident.
What to Bring:
- Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Social Security number (if applicable)
- Birth date and birthplace
- Divorce decree (if previously married)
- Payment (varies by county, typically around $55)
How to Apply (with Links):
- Visit the Maryland Courts official site for your ceremony county:
👉 https://www.mdcourts.gov/legalhelp/family/marriage - Download the Non-Resident Marriage License Application (if needed):
👉 Maryland Non-Resident Affidavit (Form CCFM066) - Wait the 48-hour period before your ceremony.
- After your wedding, your officiant returns the signed license to the Clerk’s Office.
Option 2: Get a Virginia Marriage License
Virginia is another excellent alternative for couples caught in the government shutdown marriage license limbo.
How It Works:
- You can apply at any Virginia Circuit Court Clerk’s Office—you don’t have to live in or marry in that county.
- There’s no waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days.
- Both applicants must appear together in person.
What to Bring:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Previous marriage details (if applicable)
- Payment (varies by county, typically around $30)
How to Apply (with Links):
- Visit your local Virginia Circuit Court Clerk’s Office:
👉 Virginia Marriage License Info (The DC Marriage Knot) - Pre-apply online if your county offers it (required in Arlington and Fairfax):
👉 Arlington County Marriage License Info - Get your license same-day—it’s effective immediately.
- After your ceremony, your officiant files the signed license with the Clerk’s Office.
Other Shutdown Impacts to Be Aware Of
While the government shutdown marriage license situation is the biggest headache, it’s not the only impact:
- Officiant registration delays if you planned to file credentials in D.C.
- Venue closures on federal property (like the National Mall or memorials)
- Permit suspensions for park weddings or photo sessions
- Travel and scheduling ripple effects for out-of-town guests
If you’re unsure whether your venue or permit is federally managed, check directly with your contact or your planner.
Our Best Advice for Couples Right Now
- Don’t panic, plan. Your wedding can absolutely still happen. We’ve seen it all and can guide you through this.
- Be flexible. Consider making your legal marriage a quick MD or VA courthouse visit, then celebrate your ceremony as planned.
- Check your details early. Verify your officiant, venue, and license status as soon as possible.
- Lean on your vendors. Most pros in the DC wedding industry have navigated shutdowns before and can help you adapt.
- Communicate. Let guests know if any logistics may change, they’ll appreciate your calm and clarity.
Final Thoughts
A government shutdown marriage license delay doesn’t have to derail your wedding plans. Whether you shift your paperwork to Maryland or Virginia or simply postpone the legal part until things reopen, there’s always a way to say “I do.”
At O’Neil Events, we’ve helped countless couples navigate D.C. wedding curveballs with grace and calm. If you’re unsure what next step makes sense for your celebration, we’re here to help you find the right path—shutdown or not.
💌 Need help navigating the logistics? Reach out through our contact page to get personalized guidance for your wedding day.
