Planning to tie the knot in Daly City, California, and considering a confidential marriage license? Let’s explore what this entails and how you can obtain one.

What Is a Confidential Marriage License?

A confidential marriage license in California is a private record, meaning it’s not accessible to the public. This option is ideal for couples who prefer to keep their marriage details discreet. To qualify, both parties must be at least 18 years old and living together as spouses at the time of application. No witnesses are required during the ceremony, and only the couple can obtain copies of the marriage certificate without a court order. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a confidential marriage license in Daly City, you and your partner must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Live together as spouses at the time of application.
• Provide valid, government-issued photo identification.

Unlike public marriage licenses, no witnesses are required during the ceremony, and the marriage record remains confidential. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

Application Process

To obtain a confidential marriage license in Daly City, follow these steps:

1. Visit the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder’s Office: Both parties must appear together in person. The office is located at 555 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the confidential marriage license application form. You can start the process online to save time. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))
3. Provide Identification: Present valid, government-issued photo IDs.
4. Pay the Fee: As of the latest information, the fee for a confidential marriage license in San Mateo County is $85. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

After the Ceremony

Once your ceremony is complete, the officiant will return the signed license to the County Clerk’s Office for registration. After registration, only the married couple can request certified copies of the confidential marriage certificate. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

Benefits of a Confidential Marriage License

Opting for a confidential marriage license offers several advantages:

• Privacy: Your marriage record is not accessible to the public.
• No Witnesses Required: Simplifies the ceremony process.
• Statewide Validity: You can hold your ceremony anywhere in California. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we apply for a confidential marriage license if we don’t live together?

No, both parties must be living together as spouses at the time of application. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

Is the confidential marriage license valid outside of California?

No, the license is only valid for ceremonies performed within California. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

How long is the confidential marriage license valid?

The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

Can family members request copies of our confidential marriage certificate?

No, only the married couple can obtain copies without a court order. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

Do we need to bring proof of cohabitation?

No, but you must sign an affidavit under penalty of perjury stating that you live together as spouses. ([smcacre.gov](https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/what-difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))

For more information or assistance with obtaining a confidential marriage license in Daly City, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help make your special day as smooth and private as possible.