Need a Marriage Licence Quickly in Ottawa?

If you’re planning an elopement, a last-minute wedding, or a simple legal ceremony, obtaining your Ontario marriage licence is often the final step before saying I do.

The good news? Getting a marriage licence in Ottawa is usually fast and straightforward — and in many cases, couples can obtain it the same day.

As Ottawa wedding officiants, we help couples through this process every week. Here’s exactly how to do it quickly and without stress.

What Is a Marriage Licence?

A marriage licence is the legal document required to get married anywhere in Ontario.

You must have a valid licence before your ceremony can take place.

Once issued:

  • The licence is valid for 90 days

  • It can be used anywhere in Ontario

  • No waiting period is required after receiving it

That means you can legally marry the same day you obtain your licence.

Where to Get a Marriage Licence in Ottawa

You can obtain a licence at any Ontario municipality — it does not have to be the city where your wedding will occur.

Popular Options for Ottawa Couples

Ottawa City Hall
110 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa

Many couples choose City Hall for convenience, especially if already in downtown Ottawa.

A Local Insider Tip: Consider Rockland

Many couples travelling from Montreal or planning a quick wedding find that nearby municipalities such as Rockland often have greater appointment availability.

Calling ahead and explaining your timeline can sometimes allow you to secure a faster appointment.

How to Get Your Marriage Licence Quickly (Step-by-Step)

1. Complete the Online Application First

Fill out the Ontario Marriage Licence Application online before your appointment.

This significantly speeds up processing time.

2. Book an Appointment

While some municipalities accept walk-ins, booking ahead is strongly recommended if you are working with a tight timeline.

Appointments typically take 15–20 minutes.

3. Bring Proper Identification

Both partners must provide original government-issued ID.

Accepted identification includes:

  • Passport

  • Driver’s licence

  • Canadian citizenship card

  • Permanent resident card

Photocopies are not accepted.

4. Pay the Licence Fee

Fees vary by municipality but are generally between $150–$180.

Payment methods differ, so confirm accepted options when booking.

5. Receive Your Licence

Once issued, you may proceed directly to your wedding ceremony.

There is no waiting period in Ontario.

Can We Get Married the Same Day?

Yes — many couples do.

A common timeline looks like:

Morning: obtain marriage licence
Afternoon: ceremony with officiant
Same day: legally married

This makes Ottawa an excellent location for elopements and intimate weddings.

For Couples Travelling from Montreal or Outside Ottawa

Ontario marriage licences are especially popular with Quebec couples because:

  • Ontario allows personalized civil ceremonies

  • No residency requirement exists

  • Bilingual ceremonies are easily accommodated

  • The process is fast and straightforward

You only need to obtain your licence once before your ceremony.

What Happens After You Receive Your Licence?

Bring the licence to your ceremony.

Your officiant will:

  • perform the legal ceremony wording

  • guide you through signing documents

  • register the marriage with the Province of Ontario

After registration, you may apply for your official marriage certificate.

Common Questions About Ottawa Marriage Licences

Do both partners need to attend?
Usually yes, unless special arrangements are made.

Can someone else pick it up for us?
Generally no — identification must be verified.

How long does the appointment take?
Typically under 20 minutes.

Can we change our wedding date later?
Yes, as long as the ceremony occurs within 90 days.

Planning a Quick Wedding or Elopement?

Many couples who obtain a marriage licence quickly are planning:

  • elopements

  • simple legal weddings

  • pop-up ceremonies

  • friend-led ceremonies with legal signing afterward

If you already have your licence — or plan to obtain one soon — we can often accommodate short timelines.

👉 Contact Merry Fairy Weddings to check officiant availability for your date.