Bensalem Marriage License in Bucks County
Bensalem Township residents do not apply for a marriage license at the Bensalem Township Municipal Building. Marriage license applications for all of Bucks County, including Bensalem, are handled by the Bucks County Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans' Court in Doylestown, the county seat. Doylestown is approximately 25 miles north of Bensalem, so plan for the drive when scheduling your visit. Both applicants must appear together in person to submit the application, and you should bring all required identification and supporting documents with you.
Bensalem Quick Facts
Bucks County Register of Wills Office for Bensalem
The Bucks County Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans' Court is located at the County Administrative Building, 55 East Court Street, Doylestown, PA 18901. The phone number for the office is 215-348-6265. Hours run Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The Bucks County website provides additional information about the Register of Wills and its services. Call ahead to confirm the current fee, any appointment requirements, and accepted payment methods before making the trip from Bensalem.
| Office | Bucks County Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans' Court County Administrative Building, 55 East Court Street, Doylestown, PA 18901 Phone: 215-348-6265 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Fee | Approximately $80.00 (verify current fee with office) |
| County | Bucks County |
The approximately $80 fee is an estimate based on publicly available information. Always verify the exact current fee directly with the Bucks County Register of Wills before your visit.
Bensalem Marriage License Requirements
Both applicants must appear together at the Bucks County Register of Wills in Doylestown. Pennsylvania statute §1306 requires in-person appearance by both parties at the issuing office. Each person needs a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, state identification card, or U.S. passport. Social Security information is also required during the application process.
Previously married applicants must bring documentation of how the prior marriage ended. Widowed individuals need a certified copy of the death certificate for the deceased spouse. Divorced individuals must present the final divorce decree or a certified copy. Documents in a language other than English must include a certified translation. All applicants must be at least 18, per §1304(b). Gathering all necessary documents before making the 25-mile trip from Bensalem will save you from having to make a second visit to Doylestown.
Note: Allow for travel time and potential wait periods when planning your visit, especially if traveling from Lower Bucks County during morning rush hours.
Vows and Veterans Program in Bucks County
Bucks County offers a distinctive program for military veterans called "Vows and Veterans." This program provides free wedding ceremonies for veterans, giving those who served an opportunity to hold a meaningful civil ceremony without ceremony fees. The program reflects Bucks County's commitment to recognizing the service of veterans within the community. Details on eligibility and how to participate in the Vows and Veterans program are available through the Bucks County Register of Wills office at 215-348-6265.
The Vows and Veterans program is separate from the marriage license application process. You still need to obtain a Bensalem marriage license through the standard application process at the Doylestown office before participating in the ceremony component. The license requirement, three-day waiting period under §1303, and 60-day validity window under §1310 all apply regardless of whether you participate in the Vows and Veterans program. Ask the office about current program availability when you call to inquire about your application.
About Bensalem and Bucks County
Bensalem is one of the most populous townships in Bucks County and is located along the Delaware River, sharing a border with Philadelphia to the south. The township is home to Parx Casino, Neshaminy Mall, and several major commercial corridors along Street Road and Bristol Pike. Its location at the southern edge of Bucks County makes Bensalem a gateway community between Philadelphia and the more rural northern parts of the county. Historical vital records, including older Bucks County marriage records, are available through the Pennsylvania State Archives vital statistics records page.
The Pennsylvania State Archives maintains historical vital records, including older Bucks County marriage records, that may be useful for genealogical research related to Bensalem and the broader Bucks County area.
Bucks County itself has a rich colonial history. It was one of the three original counties established by William Penn, and its records go back centuries. The Register of Wills in Doylestown maintains marriage records spanning many generations of Bucks County residents, including those from Bensalem's long history as one of the county's most populated townships.
Note: For older Bucks County marriage records not available through the county office, the Pennsylvania State Archives in Harrisburg may hold relevant historical documentation.
Pennsylvania Marriage Law and Bensalem Licenses
All Bensalem marriage license applications fall under Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Section 1301 requires a valid marriage license before any ceremony. Section 1303 mandates the three-day waiting period. Section 1304(b) sets the minimum age at 18. Section 1306 requires both parties to appear in person. Section 1310 limits the license to 60 days of validity. Section 1503 defines who may lawfully perform a marriage ceremony in Pennsylvania, including judges, magistrates, and ordained religious leaders.
Couples planning a ceremony in Bensalem should ensure their officiant qualifies under §1503. The greater Bucks County area has many clergy, civil officiants, and registered secular celebrants who meet the statutory definition. If you have questions about officiant eligibility, contact the Bucks County Register of Wills office or consult the statute directly through the Pennsylvania legislature's website.