California marriage license guide
How to get a marriage license in California
California offers two license types — public (one witness required, public record) and confidential (no witnesses, sealed record, couple must already cohabit). Fees vary widely by county from about $35 to $150. There is no waiting period and the license is valid for 90 days. California does not recognize common-law marriages, though it will honor one validly formed in another state.
California marriage license at a glance
- Issued by
- County Clerk (public or confidential license)
- License fee
- $35–$150
- Waiting period
- None (issued same day)
- Validity
- 90 days from issuance
- Minimum age
- 18 (without parental consent)
- Witnesses required
- 1
- ID requirement
- Government-issued photo ID; Social Security number (recited)
- Blood test?
- No (not required in any US state)
- Common-law marriage?
- Not recognized
- Statute
- Cal. Fam. Code §§ 350 et seq.
Source: www.cdph.ca.gov. Fees vary by county within California — check with the local clerk before applying.
California counties — where to apply
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Informational only — not legal advice. Verify all requirements with your local county clerk before applying.