Planning to tie the knot in Arcadia, California, and considering a confidential marriage license? Let’s explore what this entails and how you can obtain one.
What Is a Confidential Marriage License?
A confidential marriage license in California is a private record, accessible only to the married couple or by court order. Unlike public marriage licenses, confidential ones are not part of the public record, offering an extra layer of privacy. To qualify, both parties must be at least 18 years old and living together as spouses at the time of application. No witnesses are required during the ceremony, and none sign the license. ([auditor.alamedacountyca.gov](https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-license-types/?utm_source=openai))
Benefits of a Confidential Marriage License
Opting for a confidential marriage license provides several advantages:
- Privacy: Your marriage details remain confidential, not accessible to the public.
- Simplicity: No need for witnesses during the ceremony.
- Flexibility: The ceremony can take place anywhere in California. ([arcc.marincounty.gov](https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license/difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))
How to Obtain a Confidential Marriage License in Arcadia
Arcadia is located in Los Angeles County, so you’ll need to apply through the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office. Here’s how:
- Complete the Application: Fill out the marriage license application online or in person.
- Visit the Office: Both parties must appear together at the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office with valid photo identification.
- Pay the Fee: As of the latest information, the fee for a confidential marriage license is $85. ([arcc.marincounty.gov](https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))
- Sign the Affidavit: Both parties will sign an affidavit confirming that they have been living together as spouses. ([auditor.alamedacountyca.gov](https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-license-types/?utm_source=openai))
After the Ceremony
Once married, the officiant will return the signed license to the County Clerk’s office for registration. To obtain a certified copy of your confidential marriage certificate, both parties must present valid photo identification and pay the required fee. Remember, only the married couple can access this record without a court order. ([auditor.alamedacountyca.gov](https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-license-types/?utm_source=openai))
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can we apply for a confidential marriage license if we don’t live together?
A: No, both parties must be living together as spouses at the time of application. ([auditor.alamedacountyca.gov](https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-license-types/?utm_source=openai))
Q: Do we need witnesses for a confidential marriage ceremony?
A: No, witnesses are not required for confidential marriage ceremonies. ([auditor.alamedacountyca.gov](https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-license-types/?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. ([arcc.marincounty.gov](https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))
Q: Can we have our ceremony anywhere in California?
A: Yes, a confidential marriage license allows you to have your ceremony anywhere in California. ([arcc.marincounty.gov](https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license/difference-between-confidential-and-public-marriage-license?utm_source=openai))
Q: How do we obtain a copy of our confidential marriage certificate?
A: Both parties must present valid photo identification and pay the required fee at the County Clerk’s office to obtain a certified copy. ([auditor.alamedacountyca.gov](https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-license-types/?utm_source=openai))
For more information or assistance with obtaining a confidential marriage license in Arcadia, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help make your special day as smooth and private as possible.
