Marriage Licenses

Intention of Marriage

Before a couple gets married in Massachusetts, they need to fill out their Intention of Marriage paperwork at a Town or City Clerk's Office in Massachusetts to obtain a marriage license. An appointment should be made to do this with the Town Clerk, and both parties need to come in person for the appointment which typically takes 20 minutes. Proof of age, such as a birth certificate, passport, or photo ID is required. Three days after the Intention of Marriage is filled out, the marriage license may be picked up by one or both of the parties. The marriage license is brought to the wedding ceremony for the officiant to fill in and sign. After the wedding, the marriage license is returned to the Town Clerk where it was obtained from. After the Town Clerk receives the license and approves it, the marriage certificate can be issued.

Please contact the Town Clerk at 978-369-6155 or townclerk@carlislema.gov with any questions and for an appointment when you're ready to file your Intention.

The $50.00 Intention of Marriage filing fee includes one marriage certificate. Payment can be made by check, money order, or cash when you come in for your appointment or online by clicking "Click to Pay Now" on the main Town Clerk page before your appointment. 

For details about who can be an Officiant or how to become an Officiant see the Secretary of the Commonwealth's website.