Documents required for a marriage certificate
Quick answer: For marriage registration both spouses typically need identity, age and address proofs, passport-size photos, the wedding invitation or a marriage photo, and 2–3 witnesses with ID. Apply at the sub-registrar's office or your state's marriage-registration portal; the exact list differs under the Hindu and Special Marriage Acts.
🪪 For both spouses (each)
- Aadhaar card
- Proof of date of birth (birth certificate / Class 10 / passport)
- Address proof
- Passport-size photographs
💒 Marriage proof
- Wedding invitation card, or
- Marriage photograph(s)
- Priest's / religious-authority certificate where asked
🧑🤝🧑 Witnesses
- 2–3 witnesses (varies by state and Act)
- Their Aadhaar / ID and address proofs
- Witnesses generally must be present at the appointment
Good to know
Apply at the sub-registrar’s office or your state’s marriage-registration portal. Requirements differ between the Hindu Marriage Act and the Special Marriage Act (which needs a 30-day notice) and by state — confirm the current list on your state portal.
Frequently asked questions
How many witnesses are needed?
Commonly 2–3 with their own ID and address proofs; the exact number varies by state and by the Act you register under.
Hindu Marriage Act vs Special Marriage Act?
HMA registers an already-solemnised religious marriage; SMA covers civil marriages (including interfaith) and requires a 30-day public notice before registration.
Is marriage registration mandatory?
Several states mandate it, and a certificate is required for a spouse visa, passport name change, joint bank tasks and more — register even if optional in your state.
General information, not legal or tax advice — and ToolGalli is not affiliated with any government department or bank. Requirements change; verify on the official source.