To the full extent permitted by the Constitution, the Probate Court has exclusive original jurisdiction over all subject matter related to the issuance of marriage licenses; to record, index, and dispose of copies of marriage certificates; and issue certified copies of the license and certificates.

It is unlawful for any persons to contract matrimony, i.e. marry, within this State without first obtaining a marriage license from the Probate Court.

The Probate Court may issue a marriage license upon: (a) the filing of the marriage application, (b) the lapse of at least twenty-four hours thereafter, (c) the payment of the fee, (d) and the filing of a statement, under oath or affirmation, to the effect that the persons seeking the contract of matrimony are legally entitled to marry, together with the full names of the persons, their ages and places of residence. Laurens County requires the following before accepting the filing of an application for marriage license: 1)Both parties must appear to file the application. (Only one party is necessary to pick up the license after the 24 hour waiting period has expired.) 2)A birth certificate is required for applicants under age 18. 3)Documentary evidence is required (Driver’s License, State ID, Military ID, or Birth Certificate) for identification of applicants 18 years and older. 4)Consent for applicants under age 18 is required. 5)Social Security Card or proof of social security number is required. 6)Cash filing fee of $45.00 is required.

Only ministers of the Gospel or accepted Jewish rabbis and officers authorized to administer oaths in this State are authorized to administer a marriage ceremony in this State. Ceremony: Once the marriage license is issued, a marriage ceremony in South Carolina is required. Laurens County Probate Court Judge and Staff do not perform marriage ceremonies. South Carolina Code of Laws: 20-1-15. Prohibition of same sex marriage. “A marriage between persons of the same sex is void ab initio and against the public policy of this State.”

Marriage Licenses are public record and are open to the public during regular business hours from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.