To obtain a marriage license in California, both parties must present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID. Proof of age is required, typically demonstrated through the same identification documents, as applicants must be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if younger. If previously married, documents such as a divorce decree or death certificate are necessary to prove the prior marriage has legally ended.
What Documents are Necessary for a Marriage License in California?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Self-Sworn Affidavit of Eligibility | A Self-Sworn Affidavit of Eligibility is a crucial document required for obtaining a marriage license in California, affirming that both parties meet the state's legal requirements to marry. This affidavit must include personal information, declarations of marital status, and be signed under penalty of perjury, ensuring the validity and legality of the marriage license application. |
| 2 | Domestic Partnership Dissolution Paperwork | California requires couples applying for a marriage license to bring valid photo identification and, if previously in a domestic partnership, the official domestic partnership dissolution documents to prove legal termination. These dissolution papers confirm that the previous partnership has been officially ended, ensuring eligibility to marry under state law. |
| 3 | Name Equality Act Declaration | The Name Equality Act Declaration is a crucial document required for obtaining a marriage license in California, allowing both partners to choose a shared last name or hyphenate their surnames after marriage. This declaration supports equal name rights and must be completed alongside standard identification documents such as a valid photo ID and birth certificates. |
| 4 | Confidential Marriage License Application | A Confidential Marriage License application in California requires both parties to provide valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, proof of age, and a sworn statement that the couple lives together. No witnesses or blood tests are needed, and the license remains confidential, ensuring privacy for the marrying couple. |
| 5 | Valid Government-Issued Real ID | A valid government-issued Real ID, such as a California driver's license or identification card, is required to apply for a marriage license in California to verify identity and age. Other necessary documents include proof of divorce or death of a previous spouse if applicable, but the Real ID remains the primary identification document mandated by county clerk offices. |
| 6 | Apostille Certified Divorce Decree | An Apostille Certified Divorce Decree is required as proof of dissolution of a previous marriage when applying for a marriage license in California, ensuring the document is legally recognized for use within the state. This certified document must be obtained from the issuing authority and apostilled according to the Hague Convention to validate its authenticity for California marriage records. |
| 7 | Notarized Parental Consent Form (Underage Applicants) | California requires a notarized parental consent form for marriage license applicants under 18, verifying approval from a legal guardian. This document must be signed in the presence of a notary public to ensure its authenticity and compliance with state law. |
| 8 | Certificate of No Record (Foreign Applicants) | Foreign applicants seeking a marriage license in California must provide a Certificate of No Record or an equivalent official document from their home country, verifying that no prior marriage record exists. This certificate, along with valid identification and proof of legal entry into the United States, is essential to meet the state's marriage license requirements. |
| 9 | Secure Electronic Submission Portal Receipt | The Secure Electronic Submission Portal Receipt is a crucial document required for obtaining a marriage license in California, serving as proof of application submission through the state's official digital platform. Applicants must present this receipt alongside valid photo identification and any additional local county-specific documents to complete the marriage license process. |
| 10 | Certified Translation of Supporting Documents | California requires certified translations of any supporting documents not originally in English for a marriage license application, ensuring legal accuracy and compliance. These certified translations must be completed by a qualified translator who provides a signed statement attesting to the accuracy and completeness of the translation. |
Overview of Marriage Licenses in California
Marriage licenses in California are essential legal documents that authorize a couple to marry within the state. The process involves specific requirements to ensure the validity of the marriage under California law.
You must provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID, to apply for a marriage license. Both parties are required to appear together at the county clerk's office to complete the application.
Eligibility Criteria for California Marriage License
Applying for a marriage license in California requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and providing necessary documents. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth application process at the county clerk's office.
- Identification Documents - Applicants must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID to verify identity and age.
- Age Eligibility - Both parties must be at least 18 years old, or have parental consent and a court order if under 18, to qualify for a marriage license in California.
- Residency Status - There is no residency requirement to apply, so both California residents and non-residents may submit their application with the proper documentation.
Proof of dissolution of any prior marriages, such as a divorce decree or death certificate, is also necessary to establish eligibility for a new marriage license in California.
Required Documentation for Applicants
Obtaining a marriage license in California requires specific documentation for all applicants. You must provide a valid form of photo identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID.
Proof of age is essential; applicants must be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if younger. If previously married, official divorce decrees or death certificates are required to verify the dissolution of prior marriages.
Types of Marriage Licenses in California
| Type of Marriage License | Details | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Marriage License | Allows marriage ceremonies anywhere within California. Valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. |
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| Confidential Marriage License | Grants a marriage record that is confidential. Available only to couples who live together as partners and are married within the issuing county. Valid for 90 days. |
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| Public Marriage License | Standard license with records accessible to the public after the marriage is recorded. |
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Your application process for a marriage license in California requires submitting valid identification and completing official documents based on the license type you choose.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
To apply for a marriage license in California, you must both appear together in person at a county clerk's office. Bring valid photo identification such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID to verify your identities. Complete the application form, provide basic personal information, and pay the required fee to initiate the process.
Fees and Payment Methods for Marriage Licenses
The necessary documents for a marriage license in California typically include a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, and sometimes a completed marriage license application. You must confirm specific local county requirements, as they can vary slightly.
Marriage license fees in California range from $35 to $100, depending on the county of application. Payment methods usually include cash, credit or debit cards, and sometimes checks, but it's important to verify accepted payment options with the local county clerk's office. Some counties also offer online payment options for added convenience.
Identification and Proof of Age Requirements
To obtain a marriage license in California, you must provide valid identification such as a government-issued photo ID or a passport. Proof of age is mandatory, typically through a birth certificate or driver's license to confirm you meet the minimum legal age requirement of 18. Your documents must be current and original or certified copies to be accepted by the county clerk's office.
Residency and Citizenship Considerations
What documents are necessary for a marriage license in California concerning residency and citizenship considerations? You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, to prove your identity and residency status. Proof of residency is not strictly required, but presenting a California ID can help clarify your place of residence during the application process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Marriage License Applications
Applying for a marriage license in California requires specific documents to ensure the process goes smoothly. Understanding common mistakes can help avoid delays or rejections in your application.
- Incomplete Identification - Providing only one valid ID instead of required multiple forms can result in application denial.
- Missing Proof of Residency - Failure to present documents verifying residency may cause processing issues.
- Incorrect Fee Payment - Submitting the wrong fee amount or payment method leads to application delays or rejections.
What Documents are Necessary for a Marriage License in California? Infographic
