Marriage License

There are 2 licenses that can be obtained in California; one is a Public License and issued by your local County Recorder/ Clerks office only. It requires one witness. It can be issued in any county and taken anywhere in California. It is the officiating party's responsibility to return it to the issuing county after the ceremony within 10 days. There is a fee involved This license becomes public record.

The other is the California License and Certificate of Confidential Marriage. It can be issued by the County Recorder/Clerk's office or by a Notary Public authorized by the Recorder/ Clerk in that county. The licensed must be used in the county of issue ONLY. The requirements are: Be over 18, be an unmarried man and an unmarried woman, and the couple must be living together as husband and wife. This license becomes confidential and is not public record. No witnesses required.

The needed identification for either of these licenses would be a valid driver's license/ or identification card issued by the DMV, a valid passport, or a valid military ID. These must have the correct name, photo, signature, and birth date. Birth certificates are not valid identification.

Some counties recommend bringing certified copies of your birth certificates. Know your parent’s names, mothers' maiden name and places of their birth. If previously married you must show proof of divorce, death or annulment. You would need to bring a copy of your final divorce decree if you have divorced within 90 days of securing the license though this can vary by county. Once issued, the marriage must be complete within 90 days. Cost varies, but it is generally $80. Contact your County Clerk’s office for specific information. Ministers must complete the marriage license and return it to the county clerk within 4 days after the marriage.

In cases where either the bride or groom is under 18, at least one of the minor's parents, or legal guardian, must appear with the couple. Certified copies of birth certificates are required. The couple must also schedule an appointment with a counselor and then appear before a superior court judge.