Last reviewed: 27 September 2026. Laws and procedures change; check current rules before acting.
Age is the condition that most often decides whether a couple can marry now or must wait. The rules are simple, but the consequences of getting them wrong are serious.
The minimum ages
| Route | Man | Woman |
|---|---|---|
| Court marriage (Special Marriage Act, s.4) | 21 | 18 |
| Hindu marriage (Hindu Marriage Act, s.5) | 21 | 18 |
| Registering an existing marriage under s.15 Special Marriage Act | 21 | 21 |
Age is counted on the date of the marriage, not on the date of notice. A notice can be given shortly before a birthday if the marriage itself will take place after it, provided the three-month window allows.
What counts as age proof
- Birth certificate.
- Class 10 certificate or mark sheet showing date of birth.
- Passport.
- Other documents the office accepts, sometimes with an affidavit.
Where documents show different dates of birth, the office usually relies on the most authoritative one. Resolve discrepancies before applying.
If one partner is under age
Under the Special Marriage Act, a marriage where either party is under the minimum age is void (section 24). Under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, a child marriage is generally voidable at the option of the party who was a child, by petition within two years of attaining majority, and in some situations void. Arranging or performing a child marriage is an offence. Wait until both partners meet the age requirement.
Will the age for women change?
A 2021 bill proposed raising the minimum age of marriage for women to 21. It lapsed in 2024 when the Lok Sabha was dissolved. As of this guide's review date, the minimum age remains 18 for women. Check for later changes.
Students and young couples
Young couples often meet the age requirement but struggle with residence proof because their Aadhaar shows a hometown address. See the residence requirements guide.
Related services
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.