Last reviewed: 27 September 2026. Laws and procedures change; check current rules before acting.
Court marriage is the common name for a civil marriage under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. It is the route most couples use when they want a legal marriage without a religious ceremony, or when they come from different religions. This guide walks through the process as it works in Delhi in 2026.
1. Decide whether you need court marriage or registration
If you have already married with religious rites, you usually need registration, not court marriage. If you have not married yet and want a civil marriage, the Special Marriage Act applies. Our comparison guide explains the difference.
2. Check the conditions
The man must be at least 21 and the woman at least 18. Neither may have a living spouse. Both must be able to give valid consent, and you must not be within the prohibited degrees of relationship unless a custom permits it. See eligibility.
3. Work out where to apply
Notice goes to the Marriage Officer of the district where at least one of you has lived for 30 days before the notice. In Delhi this is the SDM for your sub-division. Delhi reorganised its revenue districts from 11 to 13 by a notification of 25 December 2025, so check your current sub-division before applying.
4. Gather documents
Age proof, identity and address proof, residence proof for the notice district, photographs and affidavits. If either of you was married before, bring the final divorce decree or death certificate. Our document checklist covers the details.
5. Give notice and wait 30 days
The notice is published and kept open for objections for 30 days. Objections can only be made on legal grounds, such as an existing marriage or being under age. See notice and objections.
6. Marry before three witnesses
After 30 days and within three months of the notice, you and three witnesses sign the declaration before the Marriage Officer. See witness requirements.
7. Collect the certificate
The Marriage Officer records the certificate in the Marriage Certificate Book. It is conclusive evidence of the marriage under section 13. For use abroad, consider an apostille.
Common mistakes
- Applying in a district without genuine 30-day residence
- Different spellings of names across documents
- Believing promises of same-day court marriage
- Letting the three-month window lapse
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Disclaimer: This page gives general information about the law and procedure as understood at the time of writing. It is not legal advice for your situation. Requirements may vary depending on the parties' circumstances, applicable law, jurisdiction and the concerned authority, and rules and forms change from time to time. Please consult an advocate before acting.