Marriage Licences


Marriage Licences are available to order from the registry agent network in Alberta. A Marriage Licence shows that you meet the legislative requirements to get married in Alberta and it gives you the legal authority to get married any time within three months from the date the licence was issued.

Marriage Licence Requirements

To obtain a marriage licence in Alberta, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be at least 18 years old (if you are younger than 18, all legal guardians must consent).

  • You must show acceptable proof of identity with a photo such as a valid driver's licence, valid passport, valid Permanent Residency Card or Canadian Citizenship Card.

  • Both parties must provide their parents' full names (including their mother's maiden name) as well as their birth places.

  • You  cannot marry your grandparent, parent, grandchild, child or sibling who is related by whole blood, half blood or adoption
  • Your current legal marital status must be single.

  • If you are divorced, you must present proof the divorce is finalized (for example: a Certificate of Divorce or a Decree Absolute).

  • You must have your wedding in Alberta, however you do not have to be an Alberta resident to get married within the province.

  • You must be free of the influence of drugs and alcohol when you apply for a Marriage Licence and when you participate in the wedding ceremony.

  • Both parties to the marriage must apply for their marriage licence together.

Additional Requirements

Additional requirements for special circumstances:
  • Both parties to the marriage must speak English (Note: If one party does not speak English, it is their responsibility to provide an interpreter who is over 18 years old and is fluent in both English and the language requiring translation. If the registry agent issuing the Marriage Licence is fluent in the other language, then that registry agent may proceed as the interpreter for issuing the Marriage Licence. The couple applying for a licence cannot translate for each other.)

  • If either party is deaf, a sign language interpreter may be required.

  • If either party is mentally challenged and a trustee or guardian has been appointed, proof that their trustee or guardian has been informed of the upcoming marriage is required.

  • Blood tests are not required.