Planning to tie the knot in Beverly Hills and prefer to keep your marriage details private? A confidential marriage license might be the perfect solution for you. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a confidential marriage license in Beverly Hills, California.
What Is a Confidential Marriage License?
In California, couples have the option to choose between a public and a confidential marriage license. A confidential marriage license keeps your marriage record private, accessible only to the spouses or by court order. This means that your marriage details won’t be part of the public record, offering an extra layer of privacy.
Eligibility Criteria for a Confidential Marriage License
To qualify for a confidential marriage license in California, you must meet the following requirements:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
- The couple must be living together as spouses at the time of application and must sign an affidavit attesting to this fact.
Unlike public marriage licenses, no witnesses are required during the ceremony, and none will sign the marriage license. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Where to Obtain a Confidential Marriage License in Beverly Hills
While the City of Beverly Hills does not issue marriage licenses directly, you can obtain a confidential marriage license from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office. The Beverly Hills branch is located at:
9355 Burton Way, 3rd Floor
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: (310) 288-1261
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm office hours and any appointment requirements. ([rrcc.lacounty.gov](https://rrcc.lacounty.gov/RECORDER/PDFS/confMarriageApp.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Application Process
To apply for a confidential marriage license:
- Both parties must appear together at the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office.
- Present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Complete the application form, providing full legal names, prior marital history, and other required details.
- Sign an affidavit confirming that you are living together as spouses.
The fee for a confidential marriage license in Los Angeles County is $85. ([211la.org](https://211la.org/services/HxVx23JLACXXa9mkUK60eErUgkEBKV/marriage-licenses?utm_source=openai))
Conducting the Marriage Ceremony
Once you have your confidential marriage license, you can have your ceremony anywhere in California. No witnesses are required, and the officiant will complete and sign the marriage license. After the ceremony, the officiant is responsible for returning the completed license to the county recorder’s office where it was issued. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Obtaining Certified Copies of the Marriage Certificate
After your marriage is recorded, only the spouses can obtain certified copies of the confidential marriage certificate. 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 Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office.
Processing times may vary, so it’s advisable to check with the office for current timelines. ([lavote.gov](https://www.lavote.gov/home/records/marriage-records/marriage-records-request/mail-request?utm_source=openai))
Benefits of a Confidential Marriage License
Opting for a confidential marriage license offers several advantages:
- Privacy: Your marriage record is not part of the public record, ensuring your personal information remains confidential.
- No Witnesses Required: You can have a more intimate ceremony without the need for witnesses.
- Convenience: Some authorized notaries and private agencies can issue confidential marriage licenses, allowing you to avoid visiting a county office. ([jasrabiz.com](https://jasrabiz.com/marriage-license-services/?utm_source=openai))
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can we obtain a confidential marriage license if we don’t live together?
A: No, one of the requirements for a confidential marriage license in California is that the couple 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))
Q: How long is the confidential marriage license valid?
A: The 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))
Q: Can family members request copies of our confidential marriage certificate?
A: No, only the spouses can obtain certified copies of the confidential marriage certificate. Others would need a court order to access it. ([lavote.gov](https://www.lavote.gov/home/recorder/marriage-records/marriage-records-request?utm_source=openai))
Q: Is the confidential marriage license recognized outside of California?
A: While the marriage is legally recognized, the confidential nature of the license is unique to California. Other states may have different requirements for recognizing the marriage. ([legalclarity.org](https://legalclarity.org/what-is-a-confidential-marriage-license-in-california/?utm_source=openai))
Q: Can we have a civil ceremony at the Beverly Hills office?
A: Yes, civil ceremonies are performed at the Beverly Hills office by appointment. It’s best to contact the office directly to schedule. ([rrcc.lacounty.gov](https://rrcc.lacounty.gov/RECORDER/PDFS/confMarriageApp.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Choosing a confidential marriage license in Beverly Hills offers a private and straightforward way to celebrate your union. If you have further questions or need assistance with the process, feel free to contact us at Married Today CA. We’re here to help make your special day as seamless and memorable as possible.
