How early can you give notice of marriage?
You can give notice at any point up to 12 months before your ceremony date, since notice is only valid for a year from the day it is given. If your wedding is more than 12 months away, giving notice now would mean it expires before you can use it.
The 12-month rule
Notice is valid for exactly 12 months from the day it is given. If your ceremony falls outside that window, the notice will have lapsed and you will need to attend a fresh appointment and pay again closer to your date.
Why couples give notice early anyway
Some register offices have long waits for appointment slots, so booking well ahead of your planning deadline can matter more than the 12-month ceiling itself. Check appointment availability at your local office before assuming you have plenty of time.
What this means for you
- If your wedding is more than a year away, focus on booking the appointment slot rather than giving notice itself too early.
- If it later turns out your date is delayed beyond 12 months from your original notice, you will need to give notice again.
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.