Intention of Marriage

Rules for Applying

Marriage Intentions are by appointment only.
Please call the Clerk's Office at 617-715-8686 to schedule an appointment.

You must appear in person and together at the City Clerk’s Office. The marriage must take place in Massachusetts. We need the date of marriage, place of marriage and officiant name and address (this is the person performing your ceremony, i.e. priest, minister, rabbi, justice of the peace etc.)  If the Officiant is from out of State, or a family member or friend, they must apply for a Special Commission from the Secretary of State’s Office. This Special Commission must be submitted to the Clerk’s Office with the signed License to be certified.

Please Contact:

Secretary of State, Commissions Divisions 
McCormack Building – 17th floor 
1 Ashburton Place
 Boston, MA 02108
 617-727-2836

Waiting Period – There is a three (3) day waiting period, which does not include the day you apply. For example, if you apply on a Monday, you may receive the license on Thursday.

Expiration Date – The marriage must occur within 60 days of filing the Intention.

Fees – This office charges a fee of $25.00 for the filing of a marriage intention. Certified photocopies of the certificate of marriage are $10.00 each. Copies may be obtained in person or by mail.

Information Needed – Please come prepared with the following information:

• All details concerning your wedding
• Your full legal names now and your surname after marriage
• Dates and place of birth
• Parents full names now and names at birth
• Social Security numbers.  If you do not have a social security number, please bring your passport.

If you have further questions, please contact our office and we will be more than happy to assist you.

617-715-8686

See a list of local Justice of the Peace (PDF)

Wedding Ceremonies

Wedding ceremonies at the City Clerk’s office are not available at this time. We'll update this page when they are again.