Planning to tie the knot in Riverside County and considering a confidential marriage license? You’re in the right place! Let’s explore what a confidential marriage license is, its benefits, and how you can obtain one in Riverside, California.
What Is a Confidential Marriage License?
A confidential marriage license is a unique option available in California that keeps your marriage record private. Unlike a public marriage license, which becomes part of the public record, a confidential license ensures that only the married couple can access the marriage certificate. This means your marriage details remain confidential, offering an extra layer of privacy.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a confidential marriage license in Riverside County, you must meet the following criteria:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
- Both parties must be living together as spouses at the time of application.
- Both parties must appear together in person to apply.
- Valid, current government-issued photo identification is required.
It’s important to note that minors are not eligible for a confidential marriage license under any circumstances. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Application Process
Applying for a confidential marriage license in Riverside County involves a few straightforward steps:
- Complete an Online Application: Start by filling out the online application form. Remember to note your order number (SST#) for future reference. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
- Schedule an Appointment: While walk-ins are accepted, it’s recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure timely service. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
- Visit the County Clerk’s Office: Both parties must appear together at the scheduled time with valid identification and payment for the license fee.
Once issued, the confidential marriage license is valid for 90 days, and the marriage ceremony must take place within California during this period. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Fees and Payment
The fee for a confidential marriage license in Riverside County is $122.00. Payment can be made via cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card. Please note that credit and debit card payments may incur an additional processing fee. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Marriage Ceremony Options
With a confidential marriage license, no witnesses are required during the ceremony, and no witness signatures are needed on the license. This can simplify the ceremony process. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Riverside County offers civil marriage ceremonies at various locations, including the 14th Street Chapel in Downtown Riverside. Fees for ceremonies vary by location and day of the week. For example, ceremonies performed Monday through Friday are $96.00, while those at the 14th Street Chapel from Monday through Thursday are $138.00. ([media.rivcocob.org](https://media.rivcocob.org/proceeds/2025/p2025_07_29_files/21.01001.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Obtaining Certified Copies
After your marriage is recorded, you may need certified copies of your marriage certificate for various legal purposes. For confidential marriages, only the married couple can obtain these copies by presenting valid photo identification and paying the required fee. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Benefits of a Confidential Marriage License
Opting for a confidential marriage license offers several advantages:
- Privacy: Your marriage record is not accessible to the public, ensuring your personal information remains confidential.
- Simplified Ceremony: No witnesses are required, which can make planning your ceremony more straightforward.
- Flexibility: You can get married anywhere in California, not just in the county where you obtained the license. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can we apply for a confidential marriage license if we haven’t been living together?
A: No, both parties must be living together as spouses at the time of application to qualify for a confidential marriage license. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?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. The marriage ceremony must occur within this period. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Q: Are there any restrictions on where we can have our ceremony?
A: The ceremony must take place within the state of California but can be held in any county, regardless of where the license was issued. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Q: How do we obtain certified copies of our confidential marriage certificate?
A: Only the married couple can request certified copies by presenting valid photo identification and paying the required fee at the County Clerk’s Office. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Q: Can anyone else access our confidential marriage record?
A: No, the record is confidential. Only the married couple can access it, unless a court order is presented. ([rivcoacr.org](https://www.rivcoacr.org/ConfidentialMarriageLicense?utm_source=openai))
Choosing a confidential marriage license in Riverside County is an excellent option for couples seeking privacy and simplicity in their marriage process. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help make your special day as smooth and memorable as possible!
