What's the earliest date I can legally get married?

Your earliest legal date is the day the later of your two notices is given, plus the statutory waiting period — 28 days on the standard route, or 70 days where a notice is referred to the Home Office.

If you and your partner give notice on different days, use the later date.

What this means for you

This is a legal minimum, not a realistic wedding date on its own. Add the wait for a notice appointment in the busier of your two districts — commonly two to four weeks — and check that registrars are available on the day you want.

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Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm dates and requirements with your own register office.