Marriage document requirements if you have never held a passport
Without a passport, you will typically need a combination of documents to satisfy identity, age and nationality checks, such as a full birth certificate, a photo ID like a driving licence, and evidence of your immigration status if relevant. Requirements vary between register offices, so confirm the exact combination before booking.
Building an alternative document set
A full birth certificate confirms your identity and nationality-related details, but most offices also want at least one photo document, such as a driving licence, to confirm you are the person named on it.
If you were born outside the UK or your immigration status needs confirming, you may also need additional Home Office documentation.
Should you apply for a passport instead?
Many people in this position find it simpler to apply for a passport ahead of their wedding, since it resolves identity, age and nationality in a single document and avoids office-by-office variation in what alternatives are accepted.
This is worth weighing against processing times, particularly if your notice appointment is only a few months away.
Talking to your register office first
Because there is no single national list of acceptable alternatives, calling ahead to check exactly what your office needs will save you a wasted trip if a document is missing.
What this means for you
- Do not turn up with just a birth certificate — expect to need at least one further document.
- If you have time before your wedding, applying for a passport can be the simplest route.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Give notice at your local register office
- 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.