Congratulations on tying the knot in the Golden State! Now that you’ve celebrated your special day, it’s time to make sure all the legalities are squared away. One crucial document you’ll need is your marriage certificate, which serves as official proof of your union. Let’s walk through the steps to obtain your marriage certificate in California.
Understanding the Marriage Certificate Process
After your wedding ceremony, the officiant and at least one witness will sign your marriage license. This completed license must be returned to the county clerk’s office where it was issued within 10 business days. Once recorded, it becomes your official marriage certificate. Typically, you can request a certified copy about 10 business days after the license is received and recorded by the clerk’s office. Learn more about the process here.
How to Request Your Marriage Certificate
There are several ways to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate:
- In Person: Visit the county clerk’s office where your marriage license was issued. Bring valid government-issued photo identification and be prepared to pay the required fee. For example, in San Diego County, the fee is $17 per copy. More details here.
- By Mail: Complete a marriage certificate application form, have it notarized, and mail it to the appropriate county clerk’s office along with the fee. Processing times can vary, so check with the specific office for details. Instructions for Los Angeles County.
- Online: Many counties partner with third-party services like VitalChek to process online requests. Additional fees may apply for this convenience. Online request information for Los Angeles County.
Authorized vs. Informational Copies
California offers two types of marriage certificate copies:
- Authorized Certified Copy: This is a legal document that can be used for official purposes, such as changing your name on your driver’s license or passport. To obtain this, you must be one of the parties to the marriage or an authorized individual, and you may need to provide a notarized statement. More information here.
- Informational Certified Copy: This copy is for informational purposes only and is not valid for official use. It will have a statement indicating that it’s not a valid document to establish identity. Anyone can request this type of copy without a notarized statement.
Fees and Processing Times
Fees for marriage certificates vary by county but generally range from $15 to $20 per copy. Processing times can also vary, especially for mail and online requests. It’s advisable to check with the specific county clerk’s office for the most accurate information. For instance, in Los Angeles County, the fee is $17 per copy, and processing times are typically 20 working days. Details here.
Special Considerations for Confidential Marriages
If you had a confidential marriage (a marriage license that is not part of the public record), only the parties to the marriage can obtain a certified copy of the marriage certificate. You’ll need to provide valid identification, and the request process may differ slightly. Learn more about confidential marriages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long after my wedding can I request my marriage certificate?
A: You can typically request a certified copy about 10 business days after the county clerk’s office receives and records your completed marriage license.
Q: Can I request a marriage certificate from any county in California?
A: No, you must request the marriage certificate from the county where your marriage license was issued.
Q: What if I lost my marriage certificate?
A: You can request additional certified copies from the county clerk’s office where your marriage license was issued by following the same procedures outlined above.
Q: Do both spouses need to be present to request a marriage certificate?
A: No, only one party needs to request the certificate, but they must provide proper identification and, if required, a notarized statement.
Q: Can I expedite the processing of my marriage certificate request?
A: Some counties offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Check with the specific county clerk’s office for availability and details.
Obtaining your marriage certificate is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow the specific procedures of the county where your marriage license was issued. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us at Married Today CA. We’re here to help make your marriage journey as smooth as possible!
