south carolina public records marriage guide for finding certificates and licenses

Understanding how marriage records are organized in South Carolina helps set expectations before you request a copy. The state’s Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) maintains marriage certificates from around 1950 forward, while earlier records are usually held by the county Probate Court where the license was issued.

What to expect

Many details are public, but certified copies are typically limited to the couple and those with a direct and tangible interest. An informational copy may be available for research. Records often include names, ages, date of marriage, officiant, and the county that issued the license.

• Request through DHEC for 1950–present; contact the county Probate Court for earlier years.
• Choose a method: online, mail, or in person; bring valid ID and exact names.
• Have key facts ready: date or range, county, and any prior surnames.
• Pay the search fee; extra copies usually cost less per copy.

Timelines and fees

Standard processing can take several business days; expedited service may be available for an additional fee. Search fees are generally nonrefundable even if no record is found.

Research tips

Try alternate spellings, confirm the county of license, and consult newspapers or church registers if the official record proves elusive.