How long does your wedding certificate take?

On the day of your wedding, you and your witnesses sign the marriage schedule or document, and this is your immediate proof of marriage. Since 2021 in England and Wales, marriages are recorded in a schedule or document rather than a register book, so you may get a copy of this on the day or shortly after.

The official marriage certificate is a separate document that the register office issues after they have processed the marriage. This usually takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the office and the time of year. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, the process is similar, and the registrar will tell you when your certificate will be ready.

You will need your marriage certificate for practical things like changing your name on your passport, bank accounts or with your employer. If you are in a hurry, ask the register office if they offer a fast-track service, but do not rely on it. It is a good idea to order a few copies at once, as you may need to send them to different organisations. The rules and times can vary, so check with your local register office or on GOV.UK for the most accurate information.