Is marriage registration compulsory? How do I register?

Simple answer

Yes, in many states it is compulsory, and the Supreme Court has directed that all marriages be registered. But a valid marriage does not become invalid just because it was not registered. Register at the Marriage Registrar's office or online, with ID, age proof, photos and witnesses.

Real-life examples

Anil and Rekha had a Hindu wedding in a temple. A month later they visit the Sub-Registrar with their wedding card, photos, age proofs and witnesses, and get a marriage certificate. Rekha needs it for her passport and visa.

Shabnam's husband denies the marriage to avoid paying maintenance. Her nikahnama and registration certificate are strong proof that the marriage took place.

Ravi and Meena married in 2018 but never registered. Their marriage is still valid. They can register now; many states allow late registration with an extra fee.

What should you do?

1Find the right office: the Marriage Registrar or Sub-Registrar where the marriage took place or where either of you lives. Many states let you apply online first.
2Carry age proof (birth certificate, Class 10 certificate or passport), address proof, passport photos, a wedding card or photo, and witnesses with ID.
3If either of you was married before, carry the divorce decree or the late spouse's death certificate.
4Appear together with your witnesses on the given date, sign the register and collect the marriage certificate.
5Keep copies safe. You will need the certificate for passport, visa, bank, insurance and property matters.

Exceptions & limits

A Special Marriage Act marriage is registered when it happens; the Marriage Officer issues the certificate, so no separate registration is needed.
Registration cannot make an illegal marriage valid, such as a second marriage that your law does not allow (for Hindus, while the first spouse is alive).
Church marriages and Parsi marriages are recorded under their own marriage laws, which have their own registers and certificates.

Official legal reference

Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 — Section 8
States may make rules to register Hindu marriages and make it compulsory; not registering does not make the marriage invalid.
Read the official text
Seema v. Ashwani Kumar (2006)
Marriages of all citizens, whatever their religion, should be compulsorily registered; states must make rules for it.
Special Marriage Act, 1954 — Section 13
The Marriage Officer records the marriage in the Marriage Certificate Book; this is conclusive proof of the marriage.
Read the official text
Indian Christian Marriage Act, 1872
How Christian marriages are performed and recorded in marriage registers.

Source & status

Applies to: Varies by state; Rules, fees, deadlines and the office differ by state; many states have online portals. In Uttarakhand, marriages from 27 January 2025 must be registered under the state UCC within 60 days. Goa has its own system.
Law in force since: 18 May 1955
Legal review: Draft — awaiting lawyer review

Educational information, not legal advice for your case. Exact facts and the law that applies matter — speak to a lawyer before acting.