Getting Married in South Carolina

When applying for a State of South Carolina marriage license in the county of Beaufort (which includes Hilton Head Island and Bluffton), both applicants must apply in person at the Probate Court Satellite office on Hilton Head Island, or at the Office of the Judge of Probate at the county courthouse (located in the city of Beaufort).

There is a 24-hour waiting period for a marriage license. Blood tests are not required in South Carolina. An ordained minister or a South Carolina Notary Public may perform your wedding ceremony. Please note South Carolina does not have Justices of the Peace. A marriage license may be used statewide. The cost of the license ranges from $50-$95. Cash and correct change is required.

You must call in advance to make an appointment for the Hilton Head Island office, as well as the Beaufort office. Appointments can be made on the hour, according to the hours/days of operation for that location, as noted below.

Hilton Head Island Probate Court Satellite Office Location:
539 Wm. Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
843-255-5866
Note: The Judge is available only Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays, 9:00am to 4:00pm (the last appointment is at 3:00pm).

Beaufort Office Location:
The Beaufort County Courthouse is located at 102 Ribaut Road #100, at the Government Center at the corner of Ribaut Road US Hwy. 21 in Beaufort, SC.
843-255-5850
Note: Marriage license applications appointments can be made, Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm, (the last appointment is at 3:00pm).

Valid identification is required, including Social Security number and another form of ID, such as a state driver’s license with picture, birth certificate (only if bride or groom is under 18), passport, military ID, military department’s ID, or state ID.

To hear a recording about this information, please call 843-255-5875.