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Frequently Asked Questions
The couple must appear together in person at our office to purchase the marriage license. Refer to eligibility requirements for details. To make an appointment to get your marriage license use the online appointment calendar or call (916) 874-6131 during regular business hours.
Couples meeting the eligibility requirements are issued a license on the day of their appointment. The appointment takes approximately 20 minutes. To save time, complete the application form online in advance.
The marriage license is only valid for 90 days from the date issued. If not used within 90 days, a new license must be purchased.
The person who performed your wedding ceremony must complete the license and return it to our office within 10 days. Once we receive the license and verify it is correct, the license is registered. At that time you may purchase a copy of the license.
Yes. Our office has a program which allows an individual to be deputized to perform a marriage ceremony. The person to be deputized must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen. Refer to one-time deputy commissioner program for details.
Confidential marriage license
A non-denominational marriage license is a public marriage license offered exclusively to religious societies that do not have an ordained person who performs religious services (such as a priest, rabbi, or minister) designated to perform marriage ceremonies.
