Planning to tie the knot in Los Angeles and considering a confidential marriage license? You’re in the right place! Let’s explore what a confidential marriage license is, its benefits, and how you can obtain one in Los Angeles County.
What Is a Confidential Marriage License?
A confidential marriage license in California is a private record of your marriage. Unlike a public marriage license, which becomes part of the public record, a confidential license is accessible only to the married couple or by court order. This means your marriage details remain private, offering an extra layer of confidentiality.
Eligibility Criteria for a Confidential Marriage License
To qualify for a confidential marriage license in Los Angeles County, you must meet the following requirements:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
- You must be living together as spouses at the time of application and sign an affidavit confirming this.
- Both parties must present valid photo identification.
It’s important to note that minors are not eligible for a confidential marriage license. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Benefits of Choosing a Confidential Marriage License
Opting for a confidential marriage license offers several advantages:
- Privacy: Your marriage record is not part of the public domain, ensuring your personal information remains confidential.
- No Witnesses Required: Unlike public marriage licenses, confidential licenses do not require witnesses to be present or sign the license during the ceremony. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
- Flexibility: You can obtain the license in any California county and get married anywhere within the state. However, the license must be filed in the county where it was issued. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
How to Obtain a Confidential Marriage License in Los Angeles
Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining your confidential marriage license in Los Angeles County:
1. Complete the Application
Fill out the Application for Confidential Marriage License. Ensure all information is accurate and complete. ([rrcc.lacounty.gov](https://rrcc.lacounty.gov/RECORDER/PDFS/confMarriageApp.pdf?utm_source=openai))
2. Schedule an Appointment
Appointments can be scheduled up to three weeks in advance. After submitting your application, make an appointment with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office. Remember to bring valid photo identification to your appointment. ([lavote.gov](https://www.lavote.gov/home/recorder/marriage-records/marriage-records-request/inperson-request?utm_source=openai))
3. Pay the License Fee
The fee for a confidential marriage license is $19. Payment can be made via cash, check, money order, debit/credit card, Apple Pay, or Samsung Pay. Note that a service fee applies to card and digital payments. ([lavote.gov](https://www.lavote.gov/home/recorder/marriage-records/marriage-records-request/inperson-request?utm_source=openai))
4. Receive Your License
Once your application is processed and the fee is paid, you’ll receive your confidential marriage license. The license is valid for 90 days, so plan your ceremony accordingly. ([rrcc.lacounty.gov](https://rrcc.lacounty.gov/RECORDER/PDFS/confMarriageApp.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Obtaining Certified Copies of Your Confidential Marriage Certificate
After your marriage is solemnized and the license is filed, you may need certified copies of your marriage certificate for various legal purposes. To request a copy:
- Complete the Application for Confidential Marriage Record and Certificate of Identity form.
- Sign the application and have the Certificate of Identity notarized.
- Submit the completed forms along with the required fee to the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office. ([lavote.gov](https://www.lavote.gov/home/records/marriage-records/marriage-records-request/mail-request?utm_source=openai))
Only the married couple can obtain copies of a confidential marriage certificate. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we obtain a confidential marriage license if we don’t live together?
No, one of the requirements for a confidential marriage license is that both parties must be living together as spouses at the time of application. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Do we need to get married in the same county where we obtained the confidential marriage license?
No, you can get married anywhere in California. However, the license must be filed in the county where it was issued. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Are witnesses required for a confidential marriage ceremony?
No, witnesses are not required to be present or sign the license during a confidential marriage ceremony. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
How long is a confidential marriage license valid?
A confidential marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. ([rrcc.lacounty.gov](https://rrcc.lacounty.gov/RECORDER/PDFS/confMarriageApp.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Can minors obtain a confidential marriage license?
No, both parties must be at least 18 years old to qualify for a confidential marriage license. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Choosing a confidential marriage license in Los Angeles offers privacy and convenience for couples looking to keep their union discreet. If you have any questions or need assistance with the process, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help make your special day as smooth and memorable as possible.
