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Marriage License FAQ – California

If you're planning to get married in California, you'll need to obtain a marriage license before your wedding. Below are the most frequently asked questions regarding the process, requirements, and costs.

1. Where do we obtain a marriage license?

Marriage licenses are issued by the County Clerk’s Office in any California county. You must apply in person.

2. Do we need to be California residents to get married here?

No. There is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage license in California.

3. How much does a marriage license cost?

The cost varies by county, typically ranging from $50 to $129 for a public license and $50 to $144 for a confidential license. Check with the specific County Clerk’s Office for exact fees.

4. What is the difference between a public and a confidential marriage license?

  • Public License:

    • Available for public record.

    • Requires at least one witness to sign.

    • Can be used anywhere in California.

  • Confidential License:

    • Not available for public record.

    • Does not require a witness.

    • Must be used in the same county where it was issued.

    • Requires the couple to already be living together at the time of application.

5. What are the requirements to obtain a marriage license?

Both applicants must:

  • Appear in person together at the County Clerk’s Office.

  • Provide a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or military ID).

  • Be at least 18 years old or have a court-approved consent if under 18.

  • If previously married, provide proof of dissolution (divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate).

  • Pay the required fee.

6. Is there a waiting period after obtaining the marriage license?

No. The license is valid immediately upon issuance.

7. How long is the marriage license valid?

A marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. If the wedding does not take place within this period, you must apply for a new license and pay the fee again.

8. Can we use a marriage license issued in one county anywhere in California?

  • Public marriage licenses can be used anywhere in the state.

  • Confidential marriage licenses must be used in the county where they were issued.

9. Do we need an appointment to apply for a marriage license?

Some counties require appointments, while others allow walk-ins. Check with your local County Clerk’s Office for specific requirements.

10. What happens after the wedding?

  • Your officiant and required witness (if applicable) must sign the marriage license.

  • The officiant must return the signed license to the county where it was issued within 10 days after the ceremony.

11. How do we get a certified copy of our marriage certificate?

A certified copy is not automatically sent to you.
To obtain one, you must:

  • Request it from the county where your marriage license was issued.

  • Pay the $17 fee per copy (fee is the same across all California counties).

  • Submit a notarized application if requesting by mail.

Processing times vary by county.

12. Can we get married online or via proxy?

No. California law requires both parties and the officiant to be physically present during the ceremony. Proxy marriages are only allowed for active-duty military personnel under certain conditions.

13. What happens if we lose the marriage license before the ceremony?

You must obtain a duplicate license from the same County Clerk’s Office before your wedding. Additional fees may apply.

14. Do both applicants need to be present to apply for a marriage license?

Yes. Both individuals must appear together in person. No exceptions.

15. What happens if we don’t return the completed marriage license?

If the license is not returned within 90 days, your marriage will not be legally recorded, and you may need to reapply and remarry.

16. Where can I find more information?

Visit the website of the County Clerk’s Office where you plan to apply for your marriage license. They will have the most up-to-date information regarding fees, requirements, and processing times.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a marriage license is a straightforward but essential step in your wedding planning. Make sure to check with your local County Clerk’s Office for any additional requirements. Once you have your license in hand, you’re officially on your way to saying “I do!”

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