Planning to tie the knot without the wait? Bakersfield, California, offers several options for couples seeking a same-day marriage. Whether you’re eloping, need to expedite the process for personal reasons, or simply prefer a quick ceremony, here’s how you can get married in Bakersfield on the same day.
Understanding the Marriage License Process in Bakersfield
Before you can say “I do,” you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. In Kern County, both parties must appear together at the County Clerk’s office located at 1115 Truxtun Avenue, First Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93301. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, and no appointment is necessary. Be sure to bring valid government-issued photo identification. If either party has been divorced within the last 90 days, an endorsed copy of the final divorce decree is required. For more details, visit the Kern County Clerk’s official website: Kern County Clerk Marriage Information.
Choosing Between Public and Confidential Marriage Licenses
California offers two types of marriage licenses: public and confidential. A public marriage license is part of the public record, while a confidential license is not. To qualify for a confidential license, the couple must already be living together as spouses. The fees are $101 for a public license and $123 for a confidential one. More information can be found here: Kern County Clerk Marriage Information.
Finding an Officiant for Your Same-Day Ceremony
After obtaining your marriage license, you’ll need an officiant to perform the ceremony. While the Kern County Clerk’s office does not perform ceremonies, several local officiants offer same-day services:
- Enlace Ceremonies: Offers ceremonies in a private wedding chapel accommodating up to 30 guests. They are available seven days a week by appointment. Contact them at 661-333-9008 or via email at enlaceweddings@gmail.com. More details: Enlace Ceremonies Wedding Chapel.
- Married by Marie: Provides personalized wedding officiant services, including same-day weddings. Reach out at hello@marriedbymarie.com or call 1-661-364-3392. Visit their website: Married by Marie.
- Bakersfield One Stop Service: Offers marriage documentation and notarizing services. They are also a mobile service and can come to you. Contact them at 760-549-3916 or bakersfieldone@gmail.com. More information: Bakersfield One Stop Service.
Preparing for Your Same-Day Marriage
To ensure a smooth process, consider the following steps:
- Check Identification: Ensure both parties have valid, government-issued photo IDs.
- Understand License Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the differences between public and confidential marriage licenses.
- Schedule the Ceremony: Contact an officiant in advance to confirm availability for a same-day ceremony.
- Bring Necessary Documents: If applicable, bring divorce decrees or other required documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to be California residents to get married in Bakersfield?
No, California does not have a residency requirement for marriage. Couples from out of state or even out of the country can get married in Bakersfield.
Is a blood test required to obtain a marriage license?
No, California does not require a blood test to obtain a marriage license.
Can we get married on weekends?
While the Kern County Clerk’s office operates Monday through Friday, many officiants offer weekend ceremonies. It’s best to contact them directly to confirm availability.
How long is the marriage license valid?
A marriage license in California is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. If you do not get married within that period, you will need to obtain a new license.
When will we receive our official marriage certificate?
After the ceremony, the officiant will file the marriage license with the county. The official marriage certificate is typically available within a few weeks. You can request a certified copy from the Kern County Recorder’s Office.
For more information on same-day marriage services throughout California, including Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and San Francisco, visit Married Today CA.
Ready to make it official? Contact Married Today CA to schedule your same-day marriage in Bakersfield or any of our other California locations. We’re here to make your special day seamless and memorable.
