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1. Is there a waiting period from the date of application to the date the license is issued?

Yes, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period.

2. May we marry before the three days for good reason?

Yes, if you can obtain a court waiver after filing intentions. You should file your intentions first with any city or town clerk. After this, we suggest calling the Concord District Court, Clerk's Office at 978-369-0500.

3. What is the cost of a marriage license?

Individual communities set the fee for a marriage license. The fee in Lexington is $40 which includes the issuance of one certified copy of the Certificate of Marriage once the marriage has occurred and the Certificate has been recorded with the Office of the Town Clerk.

4. Is a medical certificate required before a license can be issued?

A medical certificate is not required to be married in Massachusetts.

5. What are the responsibilities of the member of the clergy or justice of the peace?

The member of the clergy or justice of the peace authorized to solemnize marriages in Massachusetts must complete and sign the original license and return it to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued. A marriage is not deemed valid until the license has been returned and recorded with the Town Clerk where the intention was filed and that office has filed the marriage with the Massachusetts Department of Vital Records and Statistics.