If you’re getting married in the state of California, you will need to get a California marriage license. We’ve done the research for you to help walk you through the steps to take for getting your California marriage license.
Types of California Marriage Licenses
In California there are two types of marriage licenses; public licenses and confidential licenses.
Public Licenses
A public license is traditionally the most common because it doesn’t have requirements of where the couple lives and it does not require them living together prior to being married. A public marriage license is valid for 90 days, meaning within those 90 days you must legally be married and the document must be signed by a witness, the couple and your officiant. Once your ceremony is completed the marriage license becomes a legal document that establishes the rights and obligations. In California this document is public record because of the legal consequences that can come along between the parties.
Confidential License
On the other hand a confidential license, is exactly that confidential record. Only the couple can obtain information about it or order a certified copy unless its court ordered. This is usually for celebrities or couples who wish to keep their marriage in privacy. There are different requirements, the couple must be living together prior to applying for a confidential license and it is valid for 90 days. A witness is not required only the officiants signature is necessary.
How to Obtain a California Marriage License
Typically this is a seamless process, you need to visit your county clerk and apply. There are even options within each county to fill out the application online so it’s prepared when you go into the county clerks. You must get your marriage license prior to your marriage ceremony and usually the county clerks office requires you come in no less than 3 days prior.
Legal Requirements to Get Married in California
- Each prospective spouse must be 18 years of age
- You cannot currently be married
- You do not need to be a resident of the Unites States of America to purchase a California marriage license or to get married in California. Some counties do have local guidelines that one of the prospective spouses must be a county resident, it varies by county.
- You must present valid photo identification, such as a drivers license or passport.
Waiting Period?
There is no waiting period in California to obtain a marriage license. Once the license is issued you can get married immediately or within 90 days of obtaining.
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost varies by county, for example is Sacramento County a public license costs $98 and a confidential license costs $97. In Santa Cruz County the cost is $90 whether public or confidential.
Obtaining a marriage license isn’t as daunting of a task as one might think, we hope this quick break down answered all of your questions prior to getting your California marriage license.
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