Birth, Marriage & Death Certificates
On Wednesday, August 28th, 2024. The New Hampshire Division of Vital Records Administration will be performing scheduled maintenance from 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, the Office of the City Clerk will be unable to process any vital record requests during this time.
(See below for links for applications for certificates)
How to Apply for a Marriage License
General Information
Both in state and out of state residents may apply at any City Clerk's Office to be married in the State of New Hampshire.
Application Procedure
To apply for the license, both parties must appear at the same time in the office otherwise an application cannot be completed.
Fees Involved
The License Application fee is $50.00 payable at the time of filing. Acceptable payment consists of cash, check, money order, or credit/debit cards. A convenience fee of 2.95% will be charged for the use of a credit/debit card.
Licensing Time Frame
The license is valid for ninety days from the date you apply. There is no longer a waiting period and the license may be used the same day.
Identification
Picture identification is required upon time of application.
Specific Documentation
If either party was married previously, the following must be presented, as applicable:
- DIVORCE: A certified copy of the final divorce decree, which must include a raised seal on the document.
- DEATH: A certified copy of the death certificate.
- ANNULMENT: A certified copy of the annulment.
Application Hours (*Please note: the marriage application process can take 20 minutes or so, please apply no later than ½ hour before closing)
- Monday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00* p.m.
- Tuesday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30* p.m.
- Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00* p.m.
The City of Portsmouth City Clerk's Office does not provide Justice of the Peace services and therefore cannot perform marriage ceremonies.
If you have specific questions regarding the process, you are encouraged to contact the office before appearing to complete the application.