Question on marriage licenses

This question is basically for those that got married in a registars office.

Do you get you marriage licence right away? or is there a wait.

my visa is up on May 6th...and we are looking to get married on April 24th, to allow Tom's son some time to recoup from surgery. I want to make sure I will have time to post my marriage visa application.

Thank anyone that can help me with this question

Congrats!!!
We got it on the same day  

They give you one right there.  When we registered we ordered an extra one, just in case.  Cost £3.00 and we got both right after the ceremony.  Just gave us peace of mind, knowing we were going to have to use it for so many things, to just have an extra from the onset.

thanks guys...that makes me feel much safer for such a late date... now need to pray registars office will be avail for us on date wanted.