To apply for a marriage license in California, applicants must provide valid government-issued identification such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Proof of age is required, with applicants generally needing to be at least 18 years old or have a court order if younger. Social Security numbers are also necessary if applicable, although a Social Security card itself is not required.
What Documents Are Necessary for Marriage License Application in California?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, military ID) | A valid government-issued photo ID such as a California driver's license, U.S. passport, or military ID is mandatory for marriage license applications in California. These identification documents verify age, identity, and residency requirements essential for the issuance of the marriage license. |
| 2 | Social Security Number or affidavit (if applicable) | Applicants for a California marriage license must provide their Social Security Number (SSN) if they have been issued one, as it is a required identifier for the application process. If an applicant does not have a Social Security Number, they must submit an affidavit stating this fact, ensuring compliance with county clerk requirements for marriage license issuance. |
| 3 | Birth certificate (sometimes required for age verification) | A birth certificate is often required during a California marriage license application to verify the applicant's age and identity. This official document must be a certified copy issued by the state or country of birth to meet legal standards. |
| 4 | Divorce decree (if previously married) | A certified copy of the divorce decree is necessary when applying for a marriage license in California if you were previously married, as it serves as proof that the prior marriage has legally ended. This document must be issued by the court and include the final judgment of dissolution to meet the county clerk's requirements. |
| 5 | Death certificate (if widowed) | A death certificate is required as proof of the termination of a previous marriage when applying for a marriage license in California if the applicant is widowed. This official document verifies the spouse's death and ensures compliance with state marital regulations. |
| 6 | Completed marriage license application form | The completed marriage license application form in California must include personal information such as full names, birthdates, and addresses of both parties, prominently featuring signatures to verify authenticity. Providing a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license or passport is essential to confirm identity alongside the completed application form. |
Introduction to Marriage License Identification Requirements in California
Applying for a marriage license in California requires specific identification documents to verify the identities of both parties. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth application process and compliance with state laws.
- Valid Government-Issued Photo ID - Applicants must present a current, government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID.
- Proof of Age - Documentation verifying that both individuals meet the minimum legal age, often included within accepted forms of ID, is required.
- Additional Identification for Non-Residents - Non-California residents may need supplementary identification or proof of residency depending on county regulations.
Primary Identification Documents Accepted
Applying for a marriage license in California requires presenting primary identification documents that verify your identity and age. Acceptable documents include a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card.
Other primary identification options are military identification cards and consular identification cards. You must bring one of these documents to complete your marriage license application process successfully.
Secondary Forms of Identification
Secondary forms of identification are required to support your primary ID when applying for a marriage license in California. Acceptable secondary documents include a social security card, military ID, or a credit card with your name. These additional forms help verify your identity and ensure the application process proceeds smoothly.
Acceptable Proof of Age Documents
| Document Type | Description | Acceptable Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Age | Documents that verify your age are required for a marriage license application in California. Age verification ensures eligibility to marry according to state law. | Valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, state identification card, passport, or military ID. A certified birth certificate is also acceptable. Documents must include your date of birth. |
Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens
Applying for a marriage license in California requires specific documentation, especially for non-U.S. citizens. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth application process at county clerk offices.
- Valid Passport - Non-U.S. citizens must present an unexpired passport as a primary form of identification.
- Visa or Immigration Status Proof - Applicants need to provide valid documentation showing their legal status in the United States, such as a visa, permanent resident card, or other immigration documents.
- Additional Identification - Some counties may require a secondary form of ID, like a consular identification card or foreign national ID, to verify identity.
Meeting these document requirements helps non-U.S. citizens complete the California marriage license application without delays.
Name Variations and Name Change Documentation
When applying for a marriage license in California, it is essential to provide valid identification that reflects your current legal name. Applicants with name variations must present documentation to verify all names used, such as birth certificates or passports.
Name change documentation is required if your current legal name differs from previous identification records. This includes court-issued name change orders, marriage certificates, or divorce decrees showing the name change. Accurate name verification ensures the marriage license is correctly issued without delays or legal complications.
Expired or Damaged Identification: What to Do
When applying for a marriage license in California, valid identification is required to verify your identity. If your ID is expired or damaged, you may still be able to use it, but additional proof of identity could be necessary. Contact the county clerk's office beforehand to confirm acceptable alternatives and avoid application delays.
Identification Requirements for Previously Married Applicants
California requires specific identification documents when applying for a marriage license, especially for individuals who have been previously married. Proof of dissolution or termination of prior marriages is essential to ensure eligibility.
You must provide a certified copy of the final divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate if your previous marriage ended. Valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license or passport is also mandatory to verify your identity.
Identification for Minors Applying for Marriage Licenses
Minors applying for a marriage license in California must provide specific identification to verify their age and identity. Proper documentation ensures the legal requirements are met before the license is issued.
- Birth Certificate - A certified copy of the minor's birth certificate is required to confirm their age and full name.
- Parental Consent Documents - Written consent from a parent or legal guardian must accompany the application, often notarized for validity.
- Photo Identification - An official photo ID such as a passport or school ID card helps verify the minor's identity during the application process.
What Documents Are Necessary for Marriage License Application in California? Infographic
