How to Get Legally Married in California: A Simple Guide for Couples
Planning your wedding day is exciting, but don't forget the important legal step of making your marriage official! Whether you’re a California resident or coming from out of state, getting legally married here is pretty straightforward, as long as you know the steps. At Marigold Micro Weddings, we love helping our couples not just plan their dream day, but also feel confident about the official side of things too. Here is a quick and easy guide to getting legally married in California.
Step 1: Apply for a Marriage License
Before anything else, you’ll need to get a marriage license from a California County Clerk’s office. Here is what you need to know:
Both parties must be present to apply.
You do not need to be a California resident to get married here.
No blood tests are required.
Bring a valid photo ID (like a driver’s license, passport, or military ID).
Some counties may ask for additional paperwork if you’ve been married before (such as a divorce decree).
Tip: You can apply for a license in any county in California, and it is valid for marriage anywhere in the state. However, the license must be filed back in the county where you got it. Your officiant will have 10 days post your wedding to file the license.
Step 2: Understand the Two Types of Marriage Licenses
California offers two types of marriage licenses:
Public Marriage License: The most common type of marriage license. It becomes public record and anyone can request a copy.
Confidential Marriage License: Available if you already live together. It is not part of the public record, and only you (the couple) can request copies.
Step 3: Know the Time-frame
Here are some key timelines to consider when getting your marriage license:
Some County Clerk’s Offices book appointments fast! Make your appointment early to have your license before your wedding day.
Your marriage license is valid immediately once issued. You can technically get married the same day you pick it up!
You must get married within 90 days after receiving your license, or it will expire.
Step 4: Find an Officiant
California allows a variety of officiants to legally perform a wedding ceremony:
Religious leaders (pastors, rabbis, priests, etc.)
Judges, justices, and court commissioners
Civil officiants
A friend or family member who gets ordained online (yes, it’s valid!)
Step 5: Having Your Ceremony and Sign the License
Finally ready for the ceremony! But don’t forget about the following items to ensure everything continues to run smoothly:
Your officiant will conduct the ceremony and oversee the signing of the license.
You’ll also need one witness (or two, depending on your license type).
For a confidential license, no witness is needed!
Step 6: File Your Marriage License
After the ceremony, your officiant is responsible for filing your signed marriage license with the County Clerk’s office where you originally obtained it. Once it is filed, you can request official copies of your marriage certificate for legal name changes, insurance, or any other official updates.
Special Tips:
Check local county websites: Some counties allow you to start your application online and just come in person to complete it. It is very convenient if you are traveling from out-of-state, or different halves of California!
Make an appointment early: Some County Clerk offices book out weeks (or even months) in advance, especially in popular wedding seasons.
Consider a weekday pickup: Offices are often less crowded midweek.
Bring originals, not copies: Make sure your ID and any necessary paperwork are original, not photocopies.
Final Thoughts:
Getting legally married in California can be smooth and easy with just a little preparation. Whether you’re planning an intimate micro wedding in SoCal or traveling from afar, we’re here to make every step stress-free and memorable.
At Marigold Micro Weddings, we believe your wedding experience should feel effortless from start to finish, including the legal side! Need help navigating your full planning process? Reach out to us, and we’d love to help guide you through it all!
