Before performing the ceremony, please check the effective date. The license may not be used prior to the effective date, which is 6 a.m. on the second calendar date after issuance and must be used within 6 months of the effective date. The couple must be married in the county where the license was issued. Before returning the marriage license to the newly married couple, please complete the following:

• Date of the ceremony and city or town that the ceremony was performed in
• Your signature
• Your title and office
• Mailing address (please include street and city)

Give the top copy to the couple. This is their original. Complete, sign the green copy, and return to the Clerk's Office in the envelope provided no later than 5 days after the ceremony is completed. Please provide your printed name, address, and a phone number in the event further clarification is necessary. (A business card is perfect!). Finally, keep the white copy for your records.

Thank you for your help! If you need additional information, please call the Licensing Division, Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 301-952-3288.