What is the marriage schedule, and who signs it?
The marriage schedule is the official document issued once your notice period ends, listing your and your partner's details and confirming you're free to marry. It's signed at the ceremony by both of you, your two witnesses, and the person conducting the ceremony, and it's what gets sent for registration afterwards.
Where the schedule comes from
Once your notice period has passed without objection, the register office issues the marriage schedule, drawing on the details you gave when you gave notice. It's collected shortly before the ceremony, usually by you, your registrar or your venue depending on local arrangements.
Signing it at the ceremony
The schedule is signed at the ceremony itself, not beforehand, by the couple, two witnesses aged 16 or over, and the person conducting the ceremony. This is the moment that legally completes the marriage — the vows are the public part, but the signature is what makes it official.
For religious ceremonies conducted by an authorised person, the same schedule is used, replacing the older system of separate registers for different faiths.
After the ceremony
The signed schedule is returned to the register office, usually within a few days, so the marriage can be formally registered. This is also the point at which you can order official copies of your marriage certificate.
What this means for you
- The schedule isn't handed to you in advance to keep — it needs to be signed and returned through the proper channel.
- Make sure your witnesses meet the age requirement and are ready to sign on the day.
- You can't get your marriage certificate until the signed schedule has been returned and registered.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Marriages and civil partnerships in the UK
- GOV.UK — Order a copy of a birth, death or marriage certificate
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm current requirements and fees with your own register office and on GOV.UK.