Rhode Island Marriage License: Cost and Requirements

License fee

$24 (R.I. Gen. Laws 15-2-9, 15-2-9.1)

State law sets a $14 license fee plus a $10 family and children trust fund fee, so $24. Providence adds a $3 processing fee.

Source: webserver.rilegislature.gov

How long the license is valid

90 days

The license is good for three months after it is issued.

Source: webserver.rilegislature.gov

Minimum age and parental consent

18

Both parties must be 18. A 2021 law ended marriage under 18. Providence's 2018 handbook still describes a permit for 16- and 17-year-olds; the statute controls.

Source: webserver.rilegislature.gov

What to bring

Both applicants bring proof of birth (preferably a certified long-form birth certificate) and a valid government ID. Divorced applicants need an authenticated copy of the decree.

Source: providenceri.gov

Do both of you have to appear?

Yes

Providence issues licenses in person only, with both parties present.

Source: providenceri.gov

Who can officiate

Clergy, many current and former judges and court clerks, and certain legislative officers may officiate. Anyone 18 or older can apply to the governor to officiate one specific wedding.

Source: webserver.rilegislature.gov

Witnesses

2 required

At least two witnesses besides the officiant.

Source: webserver.rilegislature.gov

Out-of-state couples

Out-of-state couples can marry in Rhode Island but must get the license in the city or town where the ceremony will happen.

Source: providenceri.gov

Who issues the license

City or town clerk

Licenses come from a city or town clerk where either party lives, or where the wedding will be if both live out of state.

Source: webserver.rilegislature.gov