Dreaming of tying the knot without the wait? In California, it’s entirely possible to obtain a marriage license and get married on the same day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Understanding the Marriage License Process in California
Before you can say “I do,” you’ll need a valid marriage license. In California, both public and confidential marriage licenses are available. A public license requires at least one witness and becomes part of the public record, while a confidential license does not require witnesses and remains private.
Choosing the Right Service for Same-Day Marriage
Several authorized services in California specialize in same-day marriages, handling both the issuance of the marriage license and the ceremony. For instance, Married Today CA offers comprehensive packages that include the license, ceremony, and legal proof of marriage, all within about 45 minutes.
Steps to Get Married the Same Day
- Book an Appointment: Contact a service provider like Married Today CA to schedule your same-day marriage. They operate daily, including weekends, from 9 AM to 7 PM.
- Prepare Your Documents: Both parties must present valid, non-expired government-issued photo IDs. If either party was previously married, bring the final divorce decree or death certificate.
- Choose Your License Type: Decide between a public or confidential marriage license. Confidential licenses are ideal for couples seeking privacy, as they do not require witnesses and are not part of the public record.
- Attend the Appointment: Arrive at the scheduled time. The service provider will issue the marriage license, perform the ceremony, and file the necessary paperwork with the county clerk’s office.
- Receive Proof of Marriage: You’ll leave with legal proof of marriage. The official marriage certificate will be available for order from the county, usually within a few weeks.
Locations Offering Same-Day Marriage Services
Married Today CA has multiple locations across California, including:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to be California residents to get married there?
No, California does not require residency or citizenship. You can be from any state or country and still obtain a legal California marriage certificate.
Do we need witnesses for our ceremony?
If you obtain a confidential marriage license through services like Married Today CA, no witnesses are required. For a public marriage license, at least one witness is necessary.
How soon will we receive our official marriage certificate?
After the ceremony, the service provider will file your marriage license with the county clerk’s office. Your official California marriage certificate will then be available for you to order from the county, usually within a few weeks.
Can we get married on weekends or holidays?
Yes, many same-day marriage service providers operate daily, including weekends and holidays. It’s advisable to check with the specific provider for their hours and any additional fees.
Is the marriage legally recognized?
Yes, services like Married Today CA are authorized by the County Clerk’s office to issue marriage licenses and perform ceremonies, ensuring your marriage is legally recognized.
Embarking on your marital journey in California can be swift and straightforward with the right guidance. For more information or to schedule your same-day marriage, feel free to contact Married Today CA. We’re here to make your special day seamless and memorable.
