What is the minimum age to marry in England and Wales?
Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry in England and Wales. Marrying at 16 or 17 with parental consent, which was previously allowed, is no longer possible following changes to the law.
The current rule
The minimum age to marry or enter a civil partnership in England and Wales is 18, without exception. Age is confirmed with photo identification at your notice appointment, usually a passport.
No parental consent route
Previously, 16 and 17 year olds could marry with parental consent. That route was closed, and there is no mechanism for a registrar or court to permit marriage below 18.
If your identity document shows a different age
If there is any doubt about your date of birth, bring your passport or birth certificate. A registrar who cannot confirm you are 18 will not be able to accept your notice.
What this means for you
- There is no discretion on age — 18 is a hard minimum with no exceptions.
- Make sure your identity document is current, since an expired one may not settle the question.
Official sources
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.