How to Get a Delaware Civil Union License & Civil Union Certificate

Lesbian & Gay Marriage in Delaware - Same-Sex Marriage DE

Find Officiants, accommodations, venues and more by visiting our Delaware LGBT wedding directory: Delaware Gay Wedding Vendors

When Do Civil Unions in Delaware Become Legal?

The Delaware Civil Union Law goes into effect at 10 am on Sunday January 1, 2012 (New Year's Day). As soon as the law goes into effect on January 1, 2012, the state of Delaware will treat your out-of-state marriage, civil union, or substantially similar legal relationship, such as a California registered domestic partnership, as a civil union.

New Castle County Clerk Office will be OPEN by Appointment ONLY on January 1st
Sussex & Kent County Clerk's Offices will be CLOSED for the Holidays and will OPEN on January, 3rd

What is a Delaware Civil Union?

Under Delaware’s new law, a civil union is a legally recognized relationship of two people. Only same-sex couples can enter into a civil union in Delaware. A couple in a civil union will receive all the legal benefits and protections, and be subject to the same legal responsibilities, as are provided under Delaware law to married couples.

Where Do We Get a Delaware Civil Union License?

New Castle County Clerks Office - Phone Number: 302-395-7780
Kent County Clerk Office - Phone Number: 302-744-2300
Sussex County Clerk Office - Phone Number: 302-853-1717

How Much Does a Delaware Civil Union License Cost?

Bring CASH! The cost of applying for a civil union license is $50 for residents of Delaware and $75 for non–residents (checks/ credit/ debit cards may not be accepted).

Is there a Waiting Period and County Requirement?

Yes. There also is a mandatory one-day waiting period between the time a license is issued and a civil union ceremony can take place. A Clerk of the Peace may waive or shorten the waiting period for good cause, and the New Castle County Clerk of the Peace may make these waivers available to allow couples to start entering into civil unions right away.

Can Our Delaware Civil Union License Expire?

Yes. The civil union license is valid for 30 days and only in Delaware, which means that your civil union ceremony must take place within Delaware. There is a mandatory one-day waiting period before the license becomes effective, which may be waived by a Clerk of the Peace for good cause.

Do We Need to Be Residents of Delaware?

No. You do not need to be a Delaware resident in order to enter into a civil union in Delaware.

Who Can Enter into a Delaware Civil Union?

You may enter into a civil union if:

You both are of the same sex
You both are at least 18 years old
Neither of you is currently in a marriage or civil union or substantially similar legal relationship with a different person
You are not closely related to each other through birth or adoption

Do We Both Need to Apply for a Civil Union License?

Yes. Both parties must appear in person to fill out an application for a license to enter into a civil union. Applications are available at a Clerk of the Peace office.

What Do We Need to Bring to the County Clerk's Office?

Bring with you a form of identification, such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport.

If you previously have been married or in a civil union, you also should bring proof, in case the clerk asks to see it, that you are no longer married or in the prior civil union, such as a copy of your divorce or dissolution decree with a raised seal, or, if applicable, the death certificate of your deceased spouse or partner. If you live outside Delaware, the clerk may ask you to sign a form stating that you are not in a substantially similar legal relationship in another state.

EnGAYged Weddings would like to thank our couples and the following photographers who can be viewed on our Gay Wedding Planning Forum :