All people who marry in Massachusetts must have a marriage license issued in Massachusetts. A license may be issued in any City or Town in the Commonwealth.
Application Procedure:
- Both parties must apply together in person at the Clerk's Office.
- There is a three (3) day waiting period to obtain the license. Three days is counted from the day on which the intention is filed.
Example- If the intentions are filed on Monday the license can be issued on Thursday of the same week. Sundays and holidays are included in the three days, but the day on which the intentions are filed is not.
- Licenses are valid for 60 days from the date of the intention and may be used in any city or town in Massachusetts. The license is not valid, however, for marriages to be performed outside Massachusetts.
- Fee for filing intentions in Princeton is $20, and is due at the time of filing. The fee includes the license and one certified copy of the license issued after the wedding.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need an appointment at the Clerk’s office?
No. However, do plan on a minimum of 15 minutes to complete
the application process.
PLEASE NOTE - The Princeton Town Hall is not open on Fridays or Saturdays.
Are there any circumstances under which one party can file Marriage Intentions?
Yes.
- If one party is in the military, and the other party is a Massachusetts resident, intentions may be filed by the Massachusetts resident alone.
- If either party is incarcerated in a county house of correction or a state correctional facility intentions may be filed by either party.
- If one party is unable to appear due to illness the other party may file the intention alone.
Contact the Clerk's office for required evidence for these exceptions.
Can the three day waiting period be waived?
Yes. The three day waiting period may be waived by a court order. File
your intentions first before contacting the court.
Are blood tests necessary to get a license?
No. Blood tests are no longer a requirement.
What if one or both parties are under 18?
If either party is under 18 a court order from a probate or district court
where the minor resides must be obtained before the marriage intentions
can be filed.
Can an out of state member of the Clergy perform the marriage?
Yes. Pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 208, Section 39 the
Secretary of State may authorize the solemnization of a marriage by
an out of state member of the Clergy.
application form.
Can a friend of mine perform the marriage ceremony?
Yes. A “One Day Marriage Designation” is required. Please visit
by the Governor’s office 6 weeks prior to the ceremony.
| 
