Planning to tie the knot in Hawthorne, 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 allows couples to marry without making their marriage record public. This means that only the couple can access the marriage certificate, offering a higher level of privacy compared to a public marriage license. To qualify, both parties must be at least 18 years old and living together as spouses at the time of application. You’ll need to sign an affidavit confirming these facts. Notably, no witnesses are required during the ceremony, and none will sign the marriage license. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))

Obtaining a Confidential Marriage License in Hawthorne

Hawthorne 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:

• Application: Both parties must appear together in person to apply. Bring valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Fee: The fee for a confidential marriage license is $85. Payment can be made via cash, check, or money order.
• Living Together: You’ll need to affirm that you are living together as spouses at the time of application.

For more details, visit the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s website. ([lavote.gov](https://www.lavote.gov/home/records/marriage-records/marriage-records-request/online-request?utm_source=openai))

Benefits of a Confidential Marriage License

Opting for a confidential marriage license offers several advantages:

• Privacy: Your marriage record is not part of the public record, ensuring your personal information remains confidential.
• No Witnesses Required: You can have an intimate ceremony without the need for witnesses.
• Flexibility: The ceremony can take place anywhere in California, not just in the county where you obtained the license.

After the Ceremony: Obtaining Your Marriage Certificate

Once your ceremony is complete, the officiant will return the signed license to the County Clerk’s office for recording. As the marriage record is confidential, only the couple can request certified copies of the marriage certificate. To do so:

• Complete an application for a confidential marriage record.
• Provide valid photo identification.
• Pay the required fee of $17 per copy.

Requests can be made in person or by mail. For mail requests, ensure your application is notarized. More information is available on the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s website. ([lavote.gov](https://www.lavote.gov/home/records/marriage-records/marriage-records-request/mail-request?utm_source=openai))

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we apply for a confidential marriage license if we don’t live together?

No, both parties must be living together as spouses at the time of application and must sign an affidavit confirming this. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))

Do we need to get married in the same county where we obtained the license?

No, you can get married anywhere in California, regardless of where you obtained the confidential marriage license. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))

Who can request copies of our confidential marriage certificate?

Only the married couple can request certified copies of the confidential marriage certificate. Others can obtain a copy only with a court order. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))

Is a blood test required to obtain a confidential marriage license?

No, California does not require a blood test for obtaining a marriage license. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))

How long is the confidential marriage license valid?

The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. The marriage ceremony must take place within this period. ([cdph.ca.gov](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx?utm_source=openai))

For personalized assistance and to ensure all your questions are answered, feel free to contact us at Married Today CA. We’re here to help make your marriage process in Hawthorne as smooth and private as possible.