How to Get a Marriage License in San Diego?

In order to get married in California, you must first obtain a marriage license. You can do this through the San Diego County Clerk’s office. Couples can schedule an appointment online or in-person to complete the application and purchase a license. A valid government-issued photo ID is required for both parties. Couples can pay for their marriage license by cash, check, or credit card.

It is important to know that a marriage license expires after 90 days, so you should plan on having your ceremony within this time frame. If you don’t, you will need to purchase a new one. Additionally, if you have been previously married or in a State Registered Domestic Partnership, you must provide proof that the previous marriage or State Registered Domestic Partnership ended with a final judgment of divorce, dissolution, or nullity.

The County Clerk-Recorder offers both public and confidential marriage licenses. A public license requires witnesses and becomes part of the public record, while a confidential license does not require witnesses and is not public record. If you choose a confidential marriage license, the couple may obtain certified copies of the marriage certificate.

Can You Get Married in San Diego the Same Day?

Many couples choose to get married at the San Diego Courthouse for their own unique reasons. Some couples may have a large wedding with guests, while others may want to keep it intimate. Whatever the reason, the courthouse is an excellent venue for a memorable ceremony.

Getting married in San Diego is simple, and the process can be done on the same day that you apply for your marriage license. Couples who have a scheduled ceremony with their officiant can obtain a marriage license and have the ceremony on the same day. This can save you time and money.

However, you should note that a confidential marriage will be part of the public record, and anyone can request information about it or certified copies from the County Clerk-Recorder. Those who are not the couple will need to present a court order to receive information about or copies of a confidential marriage certificate. This is why it is important to plan ahead and schedule a ceremony with your officiant before applying for your marriage license.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Marriage License in San Diego?

It is best to book your appointment during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. Couples can also file for their marriage license and change their name (if applicable) during this time. It is important to bring both parties a photo ID and any documentation that might relate to a previous marriage.

Once you complete the application process, the County Clerk will issue a license to marry. You will have the option to choose between a standard public or confidential license. A standard public marriage license is a part of the public record, so anyone can request a copy or search for records. A confidential marriage license is only available if both parties meet specific criteria. The primary criterion is that the couple must be living together.

The person solemnizing the ceremony must return the signed marriage license to the County Clerks Office for recording within ten days after the date of the ceremony. After that, the official marriage certificate will be released. The couple can then update their names with various entities and accounts using the certificate.

San Diego Marriage Certificate Request

During your marriage license appointment, it is important to bring a photo ID containing your photograph, your full legal name, and your date of birth. This can be a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. It is also important to ensure the information provided on your marriage license is correct and readable, as any crossed-out information or white-out will require you to pay for a new marriage certificate.

The couple will be required to sign the marriage certificate before it is recorded. You will be given the opportunity to choose and list the name you wish to use as your married name on your marriage certificate; however, you may not change your name after you marry unless you file a legal divorce or annulment.

Certified copies of your marriage certificate are available approximately 1-2 weeks post-filing and cost $17 each. You can order copies of your marriage record online at the San Diego County Clerk’s website or call for an appointment. Payments can be made in cash, check, or money order payable to the San Diego County Recorder/Clerk or with American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa debit cards.