Dreaming of saying “I do” without the long wait? If you’re in Redwood City, California, you’re in luck! Here’s how you can tie the knot today with ease.
Step 1: Obtain Your Marriage License
First things first, you’ll need a marriage license. Head over to the San Mateo County Clerk’s Office located at:
555 County Center, First Floor
Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 363-4500
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. While walk-ins are welcome, it’s advisable to book an appointment to expedite the process. You can do so by calling (650) 599-1713 or visiting their appointment page. Remember to bring valid government-issued photo IDs for both parties. The process typically takes about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Schedule Your Civil Ceremony
Once you have your license, you can have your civil ceremony performed at the County Chapel, also located at 555 County Center. Ceremonies are available by appointment Monday through Friday at 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. To reserve your spot, visit their ceremony scheduling page. If you prefer a Spanish-speaking officiant, call (650) 363-4500 to ensure availability.
Step 3: Consider Alternative Services
If you’re looking for a more personalized experience or need flexibility, consider services like Married Today CA. They offer same-day marriage services, handling the license, ceremony, and filing—all in under an hour. Learn more about their process on their How It Works page.
Step 4: Obtain Your Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, don’t forget to request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. You can do this in person at the County Clerk-Recorder’s office or by mail. Detailed instructions are available on their marriage certificates page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we get married on the same day we obtain our marriage license?
Yes, California does not have a waiting period. Once you have your marriage license, you can have your ceremony on the same day.
Do we need a witness for our ceremony?
For a public marriage license, at least one witness is required. No witness is needed for a confidential marriage license.
Are there any special dates with extended hours for ceremonies?
Yes, the County Clerk’s Office often extends hours on special dates like Valentine’s Day. For example, on February 14, 2025, they offered ceremonies from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Check their news page for upcoming special dates.
Can we have a friend or family member officiate our ceremony?
Yes, a friend or family member can officiate if they are ordained or deputized by the County Clerk. More information is available on the civil wedding ceremonies page.
What if we want a more personalized ceremony?
Services like Married Today CA offer customizable ceremonies, including options for photography, florals, and venue selection. Explore their offerings on their How It Works page.
Ready to make it official? Contact Married Today CA to plan your special day with ease and confidence.
