California Marriage Laws

California State's Marriage Ceremony Officiating Requirements

Any of these minister, priest, or rabbi of any religious denomination, of the age of 18 years or over may perform marriages. Within 10 days after the marriage, ministers must complete the marriage license and return it to the county clerk.

Information About California Marriage License Law

The California marriage license is valid for 90 days anywhere in California. Following are some rules and requirements for California marriage license as per California marriage laws. Also these requirements may vary from county to county in California.

Confidential License: If applicants lived together as husband and wife, they can apply for a confidential license. It means there is no public record of the marriage.

Residency Requirement: It is not at all necessary to be resident of California to apply for a marriage license there. Parent's names, mother's maiden name and places of their birth etc information should be known to applicants. Some of the counties may ask certified copies of birth certificates.

Identification Requirement: California requires a picture ID may be a driving license is required. If the application is faxed or mailed, then it should contain a Notary Public witness.

If Previously Married: If one getting married after divorce, then a proof of divorce, death or annulment is must. If one is getting married before 90 days from divorce, decree certified copy is necessary to be with applicant and it may varies by county.

Wait Period: In California no waiting period is there.

Marriage Fees Required in California: In California it will cost $45.00+ to get married and it may varies as per counties and some of them accept only cash.

Any Other Test Required in California: Blood tests are not required.

Under 18 Marriages: If any one of the bride or groom is under 18 years, then at least any one's parents, or legal guardian, must be present with the couple. Certified copies of birth certificates are required. It is also necessary to an appointment with a counselor and then only appears before a California superior court judge.

Proxy Marriages in California: Yes, but it is allowed for the armed force members who are far away during the war or conflicts. It allows someone else to stand in for them during the wedding ceremony with a power of attorney.

Covenant Marriages in California: No.

Marriage for Same-Sex Option in California: No. In San Francisco and Marin Counties the Domestic Partnership Certificates are available. For that one of the partners have to live or work in that county and photo ID of both is must.

Cousin Marriage in California: Yes.

Common Law Marriage Option in California: No.

About Marriage Certificate Copy:

it's better if you confirm the information with the California county clerk or the local marriage license office before finalizing the marriage plans.