Getting a Marriage License in California
Where to apply for a marriage license in California, what to bring, the waiting period, how long it's valid, and the minimum marriage age.
Short answer: You apply at the County Clerk's office; you do not need to be a California resident. Both parties must appear in person with valid picture identification showing a photo, date of birth and issue and expiration dates (such as a driver's license, state ID, passport or military ID); California Department of Public Health, California Marriage License General Information
| Getting a marriage license | You apply at the County Clerk's office; you do not need to be a California resident. Both parties must appear in person with valid picture identification showing a photo, date of birth and issue and expiration dates (such as a driver's license, state ID, passport or military ID); some counties also ask for a birth certificate. If you were married before, you need the date and manner your last marriage ended, and some counties require the final judgment. No blood test is required. The license is valid for 90 days from issuance. Fees vary by county. The officiant must return the license to the County Clerk or Recorder within 10 days after the ceremony, and the parties and officiant must be physically together for the ceremony. |
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| Minimum marriage age | Anyone under 18 must have a parent's permission and permission from the court to get married. The judicial branch's self-help guide does not state a minimum age below which a court may not approve a marriage. |
Where to get help in California
More California divorce & family law
- Adopting a Child in California
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in California
- Establishing Paternity in California
- Changing Your Name in California
- Child Custody Laws in California
- How Child Support Is Calculated in California
- Divorce Records in California
- Alimony and Spousal Support in California
- How to File for Divorce in California
- Legal Separation and Annulment in California
- All California divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you get a marriage license in California?
You apply at the County Clerk's office; you do not need to be a California resident. Both parties must appear in person with valid picture identification showing a photo, date of birth and issue and expiration dates (such as a driver's license, state ID, passport or military ID); some counties also ask for a birth certificate. If you were married before, you need the date and manner your last marriage ended, and some counties require the final judgment. No blood test is required. The license is valid for 90 days from issuance. Fees vary by county. The officiant must return the license to the County Clerk or Recorder within 10 days after the ceremony, and the parties and officiant must be physically together for the ceremony.
What is the legal age to get married in California?
Anyone under 18 must have a parent's permission and permission from the court to get married. The judicial branch's self-help guide does not state a minimum age below which a court may not approve a marriage.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.