To obtain a marriage license in California, both parties must provide a valid photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Proof of age is necessary, and if previously married, documents verifying the dissolution or termination of prior marriages, like divorce decrees or death certificates, are required. Some counties may also ask for birth certificates to confirm identity and age.
What Documents Are Required for Obtaining a Marriage License in California?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Completed Marriage License Application Form | The completed marriage license application form in California must include full names, birthdates, places of birth, and signatures of both parties, verifying their eligibility and consent to marry. This official document is essential for processing the license and must be accurately filled out according to county clerk requirements. |
| 2 | Valid Government-Issued Photo Identification (e.g., Driver’s License, Passport, State ID Card) | Valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card is required to obtain a marriage license in California. These documents verify identity and age, ensuring compliance with state regulations for marriage eligibility. |
| 3 | Proof of Dissolution of Prior Marriage (if applicable, e.g., Divorce Decree, Annulment Papers, Death Certificate) | Applicants seeking a marriage license in California must provide proof of dissolution of any prior marriage, which can include a final divorce decree, annulment papers, or a death certificate of a former spouse. This documentation ensures legal eligibility to remarry and must be an official, certified copy issued by the relevant court or authority. |
| 4 | Social Security Number (or Affidavit of No Social Security Number) | Applicants for a California marriage license must provide their Social Security Number (SSN) or submit an Affidavit of No Social Security Number if they are ineligible or do not have one. This requirement ensures proper identification and compliance with state regulations during the marriage license application process. |
| 5 | Parental Consent (if under 18, e.g., Court Order, Parental Permission Affidavit) | Applicants under 18 years old must provide parental consent to obtain a marriage license in California, which can be demonstrated through a Court Order or a Parental Permission Affidavit signed by the legal guardian. These documents are required to verify legal authorization for the minor to marry, ensuring compliance with state laws. |
| 6 | Birth Certificate (if under 18) | Applicants under 18 years old must present an official birth certificate as proof of age when applying for a marriage license in California. This document verifies legal eligibility and is required alongside parental consent to obtain the license. |
| 7 | Payment for Marriage License Fee (e.g., Cash, Credit/Debit Card, Money Order) | Payment for a marriage license fee in California can typically be made using cash, credit or debit cards, and money orders, though accepted methods may vary by county clerk offices. It is advisable to confirm the specific payment options with the local county clerk to ensure a smooth transaction when obtaining the license. |
Introduction to California Marriage License Identification Requirements
Obtaining a marriage license in California requires specific identification documents to ensure the process is smooth and legally valid. Acceptable forms of ID include a valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Your presentation of these documents verifies your identity and eligibility for marriage under California law.
Primary Identification Documents Accepted
To obtain a marriage license in California, applicants must present primary identification documents that verify their identity and age. Accepted documents include a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport.
Other acceptable primary IDs are a state identification card, military identification, or a passport card. These documents must be current and unexpired to meet the requirements for issuing a marriage license.
Secondary Identification Documents Accepted
When applying for a marriage license in California, primary identification is essential, but secondary identification documents can also be accepted to verify your identity. Secondary identification may include items such as a Social Security card, a school ID, a military ID, or an employee identification card. Your submission of these documents helps ensure a smooth application process with the county clerk's office.
Validity and Expiration Dates of ID Documents
To obtain a marriage license in California, applicants must present valid identification documents that prove their identity and age. Accepted IDs include government-issued driver's licenses, passports, or military identification cards, each required to be current and unexpired.
California law mandates that all identification documents used for a marriage license application be valid at the time of issuance, with expired IDs not accepted. Expiration dates play a critical role in verifying the authenticity and eligibility of the applicant. Ensuring that the ID is up-to-date prevents delays or rejections in the marriage license process.
Name Consistency and Matching Criteria
Obtaining a marriage license in California requires specific documents that ensure name consistency and matching criteria are met. Your identification documents must align precisely to avoid delays in processing.
- Valid Government-Issued ID - Present a current driver's license, passport, or state ID that clearly shows your full legal name matching all other submitted documents.
- Birth Certificate - Provide an official birth certificate that includes your full name as it appears on your identification to verify identity and personal details.
- Proof of Name Change - Submit legal documents such as a marriage certificate or court order if your current name differs from your birth name to maintain accurate records and matching criteria.
Identification Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens
Obtaining a marriage license in California requires valid identification, with specific rules for non-U.S. citizens. Your identification documents must prove your identity and legal status for the application process.
- Valid Passport - A current passport from your home country serves as primary identification.
- Visa or ESTA - Proof of lawful entry into the United States, such as a visa or ESTA, is needed to confirm legal presence.
- Identification Card with Photo - An official government-issued ID containing your photo helps verify your identity.
Providing these documents ensures compliance with California's marriage license identification requirements for non-U.S. citizens.
Special Cases: Military and Government Issued IDs
| Document Type | Description | Special Notes for Military and Government IDs |
|---|---|---|
| Military ID | Valid Department of Defense identification card issued to active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel. | Accepted as primary identification for both parties applying for a marriage license in California. Includes ID cards from all service branches. |
| Government Issued ID | Official identification card issued by a federal, state, or local government agency, such as a California driver's license or state ID. | Must be current and contain a photograph. Military dependent IDs are also accepted when accompanied by valid military orders or discharge papers. |
| Additional Military Documentation | Military orders, discharge papers (DD Form 214), or other official military documents. | Required if the applicant's military ID does not have a photograph or if additional proof of identity and status is needed. |
| Out-of-State Military IDs | Military IDs issued by other states or the federal government for out-of-state service members. | Accepted if valid and accompanied by proof of residency or active duty status in California. |
Common Reasons for ID Rejection
What documents are required for obtaining a marriage license in California? Couples typically need to present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Additional documents may include birth certificates or divorce decrees if applicable, depending on county requirements.
What are the common reasons for ID rejection when applying for a marriage license in California? IDs that are expired, damaged, or lack a clear photo often lead to rejection. Mismatched personal information or failure to provide original documents instead of photocopies can also cause denial of the application.
Steps to Obtain Acceptable Identification
Obtaining a marriage license in California requires you to provide acceptable identification. This ensures legal verification of your identity before the license is issued.
- Provide a valid government-issued photo ID - Accepted documents include a driver's license, state ID card, or passport to verify your identity.
- Present a birth certificate if available - This can serve as proof of age and identity when required by the county clerk.
- Submit additional documentation if applicable - Documents like divorce decrees or death certificates are needed if previous marriages ended.
What Documents Are Required for Obtaining a Marriage License in California? Infographic
