Horry County marriage and divorce records are available through the Probate Court, Clerk of Court, and South Carolina’s Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). These records include marriage licenses, certificates, divorce filings, and family court documents that may be requested by the public. Accessing these records can help confirm legal status, support genealogy research, or provide documentation for personal and legal matters. Many people also use these records to verify family history or complete official paperwork requiring proof of marital status.
Horry County residents and researchers often need these records for legal, genealogical, or personal purposes. Marriage licenses and certificates are issued by the Probate Court, Horry County Court, and divorce filings are maintained at Family Court or the Clerk of Court. Certified copies of both can also be obtained through DHEC. This section explains where to find the correct office, how to request records, the expected fees and processing times, and what information is publicly accessible, including options for older or sealed records.
Horry County Marriage and Divorce Record Types Explained
Horry County maintains a variety of official records related to marriages and divorces, each serving a distinct purpose. Knowing the differences can help residents request the correct document for legal, personal, or genealogical needs.
Marriage Licenses
A marriage license is the initial permit issued by the Horry County Probate Court that allows a couple to legally marry. This document confirms that both parties meet the legal requirements for marriage in South Carolina. Couples typically present the license during their wedding ceremony, and it must be signed by the officiant afterward to validate the marriage.
Key points about marriage licenses:
- Purpose: Authorizes a legal marriage to take place.
- Use: Required for the ceremony; forms the basis for official registration.
- Associated terms: marriage registration, court certificate.
This document is different from a marriage certificate. The license itself does not serve as proof that a marriage has occurred; it only grants permission to marry.
Marriage Certificates / Certified Copies
After a marriage is performed, Horry County issues a marriage certificate or a certified copy of the record. This is the official legal proof of marriage and can be used for purposes such as:
- Name changes on government IDs
- Health insurance enrollment
- Social Security or employment verification
Residents requesting these certificates should note that certified copies are considered vital records and may require a formal request through the Probate Court or an approved state portal.
Divorce Filings and Decrees
Divorce records document the legal end of a marriage and are maintained by either the Horry County Clerk of Court or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) for official certificates. Common types include:
- Divorce filings: Initial paperwork submitted to begin divorce proceedings
- Divorce reports: Summaries of divorce cases or court outcomes
- Divorce decrees: Final court orders dissolving a marriage
These records may also include details such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support agreements.
Court Records
Divorces involving disputes, custody issues, or property division may generate court records. These documents are often kept in family court, probate court, or other relevant dockets, and can include:
- Court case files
- Hearing schedules and judgments
- Public index entries
Residents may request access to court records through formal channels. Some may be restricted or sealed, requiring proof of eligibility or a legal reason to view them.
Archived or Historical Records
Older records, such as marriages and divorces from decades past, may not be digitised. Archived or historical records require:
- Mail-in or in-person requests
- Research fees
- Special procedures for retrieval
These records can be valuable for genealogical research, historical studies, or legal verification.
How to Search / Access Divorce Records in Horry County
Finding divorce records in Horry County starts with knowing where to look and how to search. Records are maintained both at the county and state levels, depending on whether you need full court filings or just a certified divorce certificate.
How to Search Divorce Records
The most reliable way to find Horry County divorce records is through the Horry County Clerk of Court and the 15th Judicial Circuit Public Index. Follow these steps for an efficient search:
- Visit the Public Index Portal: Use the official 15th Judicial Circuit Public https://www.horrycountysc.org for Horry County records.
- Enter Case Details:
- Last name and first name of parties involved
- Case type: select Divorce
- Filing or conclusion date range (if known)
- Case number for a direct search (optional)
- Use Advanced Options: If the spelling of names is uncertain, try phonetic search or partial name search.
- Review Results: The system typically shows:
- Case number
- Linked records and documents
- Brief description of the case
- Filing and conclusion dates
Tip: Older records may not be digitized. In such cases, an in-person visit or mail request to the Clerk of Court may be required. Sealed records require a court order to access.
Where to View and Request Divorce Records
Divorce records can be accessed through county-level court records or state-level vital records, depending on what type of document you need.
County-Level Access (Horry County Clerk of Court)
- Provides full divorce case filings and court documents
- Requests can be made in person or by mail
- Options include certified or uncertified copies
State-Level Access (SCDHEC Vital Records)
- Provides a divorce certificate (official divorce report) for divorces from July 1962 to December 2023
- Request via VitalChek online or by mail
- Only parties involved, adult children, former spouses, or legal representatives may request
- The report does not include the full divorce decree
Costs for Viewing and Obtaining Records
Here’s a summary of the fees associated with different ways to access Horry County divorce records:
| Record Type | Where to Request | Viewing Fee | Copy / Download Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Case Filings | Horry County Clerk of Court | Free online search | $1–$5 per page (uncertified), $5–$10 per page (certified) | Include the case number, names, and specify certified copy |
| Divorce Report / Certificate | SCDHEC Vital Records | N/A | $17 search fee (non-refundable) + $3 per additional copy | Expedited: 5–7 business days; Standard: ~4 weeks |
| Court Document Copies | Horry County Clerk of Court | N/A | Varies by document and certification | Include the case number, names, and specify a certified copy |
How to Get a Marriage License in Horry County
Couples planning to marry in Horry County must obtain a marriage license from the Horry County Probate Court. The process is straightforward and can be completed either in person or by mail, depending on what works best for the applicants.
Determine Eligibility and Gather Required Documents
Before applying, both parties must ensure they meet the court’s requirements:
- Social Security cards for both applicants
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Completed marriage license application
- Proof of age if under 25
No blood tests or medical exams are required. Horry County does not set an expiration date for the license, so couples can plan their wedding date without worrying about time limits.
Choose Your Application Method
In-person application:
- Visit the Horry County Probate Court during office hours
- Submit your documents and pay the applicable fee
- Payment is accepted in cash
By mail application:
- Send the completed application, copies of required documents, and a money order payable to Horry County Probate Court
- Include a self-addressed envelope for the license return
Pay Fees
The cost of a marriage license depends on residency:
| Residency Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Horry County residents | $50 |
| Other South Carolina counties | $75 |
| Out-of-state residents | $115 |
These fees cover the official processing of your marriage registration and issuance of a certified certificate.
Observe the Waiting Period
After submitting your application, there is a 24-hour waiting period before the license can be issued. Only one applicant needs to pick up the license after the waiting period. The office hours of the Probate Court determine when the license is available for pickup.
After the Ceremony
Once married, the officiant must return the signed license to the Probate Court within 15 days. The court then files the official record and issues certified copies to both parties. This ensures your marriage is legally recognized and documented in Horry County.
Step — What to Do Based on Your Goal
If you plan to marry, need a certified marriage certificate, verify a marriage, or request divorce records, Horry County provides clear steps to help. Following the correct process ensures faster service and avoids unnecessary delays.
Getting a Marriage License in Horry County
Those planning to marry must apply for a marriage license through the Horry County Clerk of Court. The steps include:
- Prepare required documents: Bring valid photo IDs and, if applicable, previous divorce or death certificates.
- Apply: Visit the Clerk of Court office in person and complete the license application.
- Pay the fee: Fees vary; check the Clerk’s website for current rates.
- Wait for issuance: Most licenses are issued immediately or within a short waiting period.
- Pick up the license: Once ready, collect your marriage license in person.
This license allows the couple to legally marry in Horry County and is valid statewide.
Requesting a Certified Marriage Certificate
After marriage, you may need a certified copy of your marriage certificate for legal purposes like a name change, insurance updates, or Social Security records. The process involves:
- Submit a request online, by mail, or in person to the Clerk of Court.
- Providing key details: full names of both spouses, date of marriage, and place of marriage.
- Paying the fee: Certified copies carry a standard cost per copy.
- Receiving your certificate: Copies are mailed or available for pickup, depending on your chosen method.
Verifying an Existing Marriage
If you need to verify a marriage for genealogy, legal, or adoption purposes:
- Use the Horry County public records search online or request information by mail.
- Provide necessary information such as names, approximate marriage date, and county of marriage.
- Records may include marriage indexes or certified copies that confirm the marriage legally.
Accessing Divorce Filings or Court Records
For legal professionals or individuals requiring full divorce case files:
- Search the Horry County Public Index for case numbers.
- Request certified copies from the Clerk of Court, specifying which documents are needed.
- Pay applicable fees for copies or retrieval services.
These steps ensure complete access to court records for litigation, settlements, or official documentation.
Ordering a Certified Divorce Certificate
If only proof of divorce is required (without full case files), contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC):
- Requests can be made by the divorced individual or authorized party.
- Include full names, date of divorce, and county in your application.
- Fees apply, and processing times vary; certificates can be mailed once issued.
Pro tip: Keep records of all requests and receipts to simplify future documentation needs.
What to Know About Public Records Access, Limitations & Privacy
Accessing marriage and divorce records in Horry County is possible for many members of the public, but there are important restrictions. Not all records are online, and some require special procedures or permissions before they can be viewed. Family Court in Horry County handles cases related to marriage, divorce, child custody, and other domestic matters, and understanding its processes is essential for anyone seeking records, as the court ensures sensitive information is protected while providing public access where appropriate.
Limited Availability and Archived Records
Many public records are stored in archives rather than online databases. Some documents may need a public information request or an in-person review with the official records custodian. Key points to remember:
- Archived records may require extra processing time or a research fee.
- Older documents could be located off-site, which can delay retrieval.
- Only certain records are digitized; others exist in paper form and may need manual review.
Sealed or Restricted Records
Some court cases, such as sealed divorces or sensitive family matters, are not available without a court order. These records are protected to ensure court‑ordered confidentiality.
- Sealed records include family court matters and certain divorce decrees.
- Requests may require formal petitioning through the court.
- Access can be restricted to involved parties or their legal representatives.
State Vital Records Rules
Records maintained by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) follow strict rules:
- Only eligible requesters can access birth, death, marriage, or divorce certificates: the person named, adult children, former spouses, or authorized legal representatives.
- Processing times vary, especially for mail-in requests. Expedited services are available for an additional fee.
- Accuracy is critical—incorrect names, missing IDs, or improper payments can delay requests.
Best Practices Checklist for Requests:
- Confirm the correct county and document type.
- Double-check spellings and dates.
- Include required identification and payment (e.g., money order).
- Review submission instructions carefully.
Third-Party Websites and Reliability
Aggregated record websites may offer convenience but often have limitations. Many include disclaimers that they are not affiliated with government sources, such as HorryCountyCourt.org.
- Data may be outdated or incomplete.
- Official records should always be verified through county or state sources.
- Some services may charge a subscription or per-record fee, which does not guarantee accuracy.
Additional Resources & Contact
Here are official sources for obtaining marriage and divorce records from Horry County and South Carolina.
Horry County Probate Court
Address: 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526
Mailing: P.O. Box 288, Conway, SC 29528
Phone: (843) 915‑5370
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
To request a certified marriage certificate by mail, complete the request form and send it with the correct fee to the mailing address above.
Horry County Clerk of Court
Main Courthouse Address: 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526
Mailing: P.O. Box 677, Conway, SC 29526
Phone: (843) 915‑5080 (general Clerk of Court)
Online Search Portal: Public Index — available via the Horry County Public Index portal
To request certified copies, provide names, case number (if known), and specify if you need a certified copy or a general copy.
Statewide Records – South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
Address: 2600 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: (803) 898‑3630
Certified copies of marriage certificates (for marriages from July 1950 onward) and divorce reports (since 1962) may be requested online or by mail using official forms and including a valid government-issued photo ID.
(FAQ) About Marriage & Divorce Records
Horry County residents and visitors often have questions about obtaining marriage and divorce records. This FAQ provides clear answers on eligibility, record requests, and accessing vital documents, helping users understand the process and requirements.
Do I have to be a South Carolina or Horry County resident to get married here?
No, couples do not need to live in South Carolina or Horry County to obtain a marriage license, as out-of-state residents can apply at the Horry County Probate Court. Applicants must provide valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and fill out the required application. The license is typically valid for a set period, and the court staff can explain any local waiting periods or specific requirements, helping ensure a smooth process.
Do I need a blood test before marriage?
No, South Carolina does not require blood tests to issue a marriage license, which simplifies the application process for couples. Applicants still need to provide valid identification and personal information, including full legal names and birthdates. Once the paperwork is completed and fees are paid, the license can be issued quickly, making it straightforward for both residents and non-residents to legally marry in Horry County.
Do I need witnesses at the wedding?
No, witnesses are not required for the wedding ceremony, as the officiant is responsible for signing the marriage license and submitting it to the Probate Court. The marriage becomes legally valid once the license is filed, even without witnesses. Couples should ensure that the officiant follows all instructions provided by the court to avoid any issues with processing the license and to make the record official and legally recognized.
What if I lost my marriage license or divorce certificate?
If a license or certificate is lost, a certified copy can be requested from the Horry County Probate Court, which requires completing a request form, providing identification, and paying a small fee. Some requests may be handled by mail, while others need in-person submission. Keeping a record of the license number and date of issuance can help speed up the request process, and the court staff can provide guidance on vital records limitations and how to obtain documentation efficiently.
How far back do records go?
Horry County and South Carolina vital records generally start from 1950 onward, but older or pre-digital records may still be available through the Probate Court or Clerk of Court archives. Some historical records require in-person visits or archival requests due to preservation or access restrictions. Understanding the archive search process can help applicants locate certified copies of marriage or divorce records, as well as any related name change documentation that may be included in older files.