Say “I Do” to Savings: How to Get Your Ontario Marriage Licence Without Overpaying
- Barbara Peters
- May 6
- 2 min read
Planning your wedding in Ontario? Before you walk down the aisle, there’s one essential step every couple needs to take: applying for a marriage licence. But here’s what many couples don’t know — while the licence is the same across the province, the price can vary significantly depending on where you get it.
This quick guide will help you understand how to apply, what it costs, and how to save money (and stress:) along the way.
What Is a Marriage Licence?
A marriage licence is a legal document issued by a municipality that allows you to marry anywhere in Ontario. It’s valid for 90 days from the date of issue, and you only need one licence per couple.
You can apply at most city halls or municipal offices
The licence is valid anywhere in Ontario — no matter where you pick it up
What You Need to Apply
To apply for a marriage licence in Ontario, you’ll need:
Valid government-issued ID for both people getting married (e.g., driver’s licence or passport)
A completed Marriage Licence Application Form
➡️ Only one person needs to apply in person, but they must bring original ID for both parties. (Confirm before you go)
Marriage Licence Costs in 2025
Every municipality sets its own price, even though the document itself is identical. Here’s what it costs to get a marriage licence in some popular Eastern Ontario towns in 2025:
💡 Money-Saving Tip: Some couples save $60 or more just by picking up their licence in a nearby town rather than a big city like Ottawa. Where Can You Apply for a Marriage Licence? Spend the money you save on a intimate lunch.
You don’t have to apply in the town where you live or where your wedding is taking place.
Couples often choose to get their licence from:
A smaller municipality with shorter wait times
A location near their venue or officiant
The most affordable option in driving distance
A Helpful Tip from Your Wedding Officiant Barb
As a professional wedding officiant serving Ottawa, Kemptville, Brockville, Smiths Falls, Prescott, and nearby towns, I always tell my couples: Don’t wait until the last minute. In summer, office appointments can book up quickly.
When you book with me, I’ll walk you through all the legal steps so your ceremony is smooth and stress-free.
💍 Ready to Make It Official?
I offer affordable, personal ceremony options — from private signings and elopements to home weddings, minimonies and micro-weddings with your closest loved ones.
View My Wedding Officiant Services Contact Me with Questions
Bring your marriage licence to your ceremony — I’ll take care of the rest. Let’s make it legal, simple, and beautiful.
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