After the ceremony takes place and the license is recorded, the marriage certificate becomes a public record. A confidential marriage license requires the couple to be living together prior to applying for the license.
The process for a marriage license may take 30 minutes depending on several factors, such as whether you have completed the online form prior to coming into the office or if you do this process in our office. Also, there may be other people in line. Please allow yourself enough time.
Get licensed No appointment is necessary for a marriage license. You may either fill out the application online prior to visiting our office.
Marriage License Requirements Driver's License. Passport. Consular ID Card (Matricula) Military ID. Permanent Resident Card.
Order Copies Go to .VitalChek to place your order.
Marriage licenses are now available for both walk-in service and by appointment; however, customers must complete an online marriage application prior to visiting any of our offices. Appointments are highly recommended and can be made online. A marriage license is valid for 90 days.
Scheduling an appointment will eliminate wait time, as walk-ins may wait as long as 2 hours. The average appointment lasts approximately 30 minutes. Marriage licenses are issued on the day of your appointment and are valid for 90 days. If not used within 90 days, a new license must be purchased.
The Online Marriage process in California can take anywhere from 24-72 hours depending on how quickly your application documents are submitted and approved. Many couples are able to complete the whole process and get legally married in only a few hours!
After the ceremony, it's the officiant's responsibility to return the marriage license to the county clerk, either by mail or in person. After that, you're all set.