Getting married is an exciting time for couples who are in love and ready to take the next step in their relationship. However, before they can say “I do”, there are a few legal requirements that need to be fulfilled. One of these requirements is obtaining a marriage license. In California, a marriage license must be obtained before a couple can legally get married. But how much does it cost to get a California marriage license? In this blog post, we will answer that question and provide some additional information about the process.
Cost of a California Marriage License
As of 2021, the cost for a public marriage license in California is $61. This fee is payable at the time of application and is non-refundable. If you require a confidential marriage license, the fee is $66.
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to the cost of a California marriage license. First, the fee must be paid in cash or by check or money order. Credit or debit cards are not accepted. Secondly, the fee may vary slightly depending on the county where you apply for your license. Lastly, the fee does not include the cost of a marriage ceremony. It simply covers the cost of the license itself.
How to Apply for a California Marriage License
Now that we know the cost of a California marriage license, let’s talk about how to apply for one. The process for obtaining a marriage license in California is relatively simple. The couple must both appear together at the county clerk’s office and provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. They must also provide proof of their age, which can be a birth certificate or passport.
If either party has been divorced within the past 90 days, they must also bring a copy of their divorce decree. Additionally, if either party is under the age of 18, they must obtain written consent from their parent or legal guardian.
Once the couple has filled out the necessary paperwork and paid the fee, they will receive their marriage license. The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. After the ceremony has been performed, the license must be returned to the county clerk’s office to be officially recorded.
Additional Information
Here are a few additional pieces of information to keep in mind when it comes to California marriage licenses:
– Blood tests are not required to obtain a marriage license in California.
– There is no waiting period for a marriage license in California. Once the license has been issued, the couple can get married right away if they choose.
– If a couple decides to get a confidential marriage license, the ceremony must be conducted by a priest, minister, or rabbi, or by a judge or authorized officer of a court.
Conclusion
Obtaining a California marriage license is an important step in the process of getting married. While the cost may vary slightly depending on the county where you apply, the average cost for a public marriage license is $61. By following the simple steps outlined above, couples can obtain their license and officially begin their lives together as a married couple.
FAQ
How long does it take to get a marriage Licence in California?
In California, obtaining a marriage license is a straightforward process that can typically be done in a short amount of time. One of the benefits of getting a marriage license in California is that there is no waiting period. Unlike other states where you have to wait a certain number of days after obtaining your license before you can get married, you can get married as soon as you have your California marriage license in hand.
To obtain the marriage license, the couple must visit the county clerk’s office in person, where both parties will need to provide identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate. Additionally, if either party has been married before, proof of divorce, death or annulment must be presented.
The cost of a marriage license varies by county, with some counties charging as little as $35 and others charging upwards of $100. It is important to note that some counties may only accept cash payments, so it is a good idea to check with the clerk’s office ahead of time to make sure you have the necessary payment method available.
After submitting the necessary documentation and paying the fee, the clerk will issue the couple their marriage license. The license is typically available immediately, allowing the couple to use it to get married on the same day if they wish.
Obtaining a marriage license in California is a quick and straightforward process with no waiting period. Couples need to provide identification and proof of divorce, death or annulment if they have been married before. The cost of the license varies by county, and some counties only accept cash payments. the process is designed to be simple and efficient to allow couples to celebrate their love and commitment as soon as they are ready.
Can I get a marriage license and get married the same day in California?
In California, getting a marriage license and tying the knot on the same day is possible. The state of California allows couples to apply and receive their marriage license on the same day they decide to get married, thanks to the Same Day Marriage option. This option is ideal for couples who have a short engagement period or planned to have an improvised wedding. However, it is important to note that the Same Day Marriage option is only available to couples who meet certain requirements.
To qualify for the Same Day Marriage option in California, couples must bring the necessary documents with them, including a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID. Both parties must also be present to sign the application and their marriage license. In addition, couples must also pay a fee to obtain the marriage license and for the services of the officiant or officiants, who can either be a member of the clergy, a judge or magistrate, or a marriage commissioner.
Couples should also note that to be able to obtain a marriage license, they need to meet a few requirements such as being at least 18 years old, not being related by blood, and not being currently married. If one or both parties have been divorced or widowed, they will need to provide the appropriate legal documentation such as a divorce decree or death certificate.
Once the necessary documents have been submitted and the fee has been paid, the marriage license will immediately be issued. At this point, the couple may proceed with the wedding or ceremony with the help of an officiant. They can choose to have the ceremony at a courthouse, a chapel, or any venue that meets California’s legal requirements for marriage ceremonies.
A Same Day Marriage option is available in California, allowing couples to obtain their marriage license and tie the knot on the same day. However, couples must meet certain requirements such as providing the necessary documents, being of legal age, and paying the required fees. Additionally, couples must ensure that the venue for their ceremony meets California’s legal requirements for marriage ceremonies.
Can I get a California marriage license online?
Yes, you can get a California marriage license online. The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office provides an online portal where you can apply for your marriage license online. This is a convenient option for those who want to save time and avoid long wait times at the County Clerk’s office.
To apply for a California marriage license online, you need to visit the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s website and click on the ‘Start’ button on the homepage. The applicant needs to complete the application process and provide all the necessary information about themselves and their partner, such as full name, date of birth, current address, and contact information.
It is essential to note that both parties must appear together at the County Clerk’s office to obtain the official license to marry. After submitting the online application and completing the necessary paperwork, you will receive a confirmation email with detailed instructions on how and when to pick up your marriage license.
It is important to remember that obtaining a marriage license online is not free. There are fees involved in the process, and the fees may vary by county. You should check with your local County Clerk’s office to determine the exact costs involved in obtaining a California marriage license online.
Getting a California marriage license online is a convenient option that can save you time and reduce the hassle of the traditional in-person application process. However, it is important to ensure that both parties appear together at the County Clerk’s office to obtain the official license to marry.
