Your Ultimate Guide to Same-Day Marriage with Get Married Today
If you’re ready to tie the knot quickly and legally, there’s no faster or more reliable way than through Get Married Today. Whether you’re eloping, need official documentation for immigration, or simply want a no-fuss marriage without the long courthouse wait, we’ve got you covered. Below is a detailed FAQ guide answering every common question about how to get married instantly, legally, and conveniently in California.
How can I get married today?
With Get Married Today, you can get married today by simply booking an appointment. We provide both the marriage license and the legally binding ceremony — all on the same day. No visit to the courthouse is necessary.
What are the steps to getting married in one day?
- Book your appointment online or by phone.
- Bring valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
- Complete and sign the marriage license and related forms.
- Have the ceremony, which you can customize as much or as little as you want.
- Receive your Proof of Marriage, and we’ll file your marriage license with the county on your behalf. Your official certificate will arrive in 5–8 weeks.
Can you legally marry someone the same day you apply for a marriage license?
Yes. In California, there is no waiting period. Get Married Today is authorized to issue the marriage license and perform the ceremony on the same day.
What is the fastest way to get legally married in the U.S.?
Using a private authorized service like Get Married Today is the fastest. We handle the marriage license and ceremony together — no courthouse delays.
Where can I find a same-day wedding officiant?
Get Married Today provides licensed officiants and even offers venue space for elopements and pop-up weddings.
Is it possible to skip the waiting period for a marriage license?
Yes. California has no mandatory waiting period. You can be married the same day you receive your license.
How does a courthouse wedding work?
Courthouse weddings require appointments, standing in line, and a civil ceremony from a government official. Get Married Today provides the same legal recognition but in a faster, private, and more flexible setting.
Can you get married instantly without a ceremony?
No. California law mandates a ceremony. However, Get Married Today offers brief, legal ceremonies that satisfy this requirement.
Are there online marriage services for same-day weddings?
Yes. You can book online with Get Married Today and complete the entire process — license and ceremony — in person on the same day.
How fast can you get a marriage license in California?
Get Married Today can issue your license on-site, during your appointment.
Can I get married without a marriage license in California?
No. A marriage license is required, but we issue it on-site during your appointment.
What is a quickie wedding?
A quickie wedding is a fast, legally binding ceremony without the long planning. Get Married Today specializes in these convenient services.
How much does it cost to get married instantly?
Packages with Get Married Today start at $350, which includes both the license and the ceremony.
What states allow instant marriages?
California, Nevada, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, and others allow same-day marriages. California’s process is among the easiest, especially through Get Married Today.
Legal Requirements for Marriage
What documents do I need to get married today?
A valid government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
Can I get married without my birth certificate?
Yes, California does not require a birth certificate for marriage.
Do both partners need to be present to get a marriage license?
Yes, both must appear in person.
Can you marry without an ID?
No. Valid photo ID is required.
What is the age requirement to get married?
You must be at least 18, or have court approval if younger.
Can I get married with an expired passport?
No. Your ID must be current and valid.
What are the requirements for a courthouse wedding?
Marriage license, valid ID, appointment, ceremony fee, and a witness.
Can I get married if I lost my ID?
No. You must replace your ID first.
What’s required for a proxy marriage?
Allowed only if one party is deployed in the U.S. military and unable to be present.
What is the difference between a marriage license and certificate?
The license permits marriage; the certificate proves you are married.
Do I need a blood test to get married?
No. Blood tests are not required in California.
Marriage Waiting Periods & Restrictions
Why do you have to wait three days to get married?
In some states, yes — but not in California.
Can I waive the waiting period for a marriage license?
There’s no waiting period in California to waive.
Do I need to be a resident to get married in California?
No. Anyone can marry in California.
Can I marry the same day if I’m divorced?
Yes, as long as the divorce is finalized.
Why do some states require a waiting period?
To discourage impulsive decisions. California does not impose this delay.
Can I get married if my fiancé is overseas?
Not in California. Both parties must be physically present, unless military exemption applies.
How can I legally marry someone who lives in another country?
They must come to California to marry in person, or apply for a fiancé visa if they cannot travel.
Elopement and Destination Weddings
What is an elopement wedding?
A small, private wedding. Get Married Today offers legal elopements without the stress.
How does a pop-up wedding work?
We set up a temporary mini-ceremony — just show up and get married.
Can you elope without anyone knowing?
Yes. A confidential license keeps your marriage private and requires no witness.
Can you get married while traveling?
Yes. Non-residents can marry in California if they have valid ID.
What is a micro wedding?
A more intimate ceremony with fewer guests than traditional weddings.
How does a Vegas wedding work?
You walk in, get a license, and marry. California offers a similar experience with Get Married Today.
What’s the difference between eloping and a courthouse wedding?
Eloping is more private and flexible. Courthouse weddings are more formal and require appointments.
Can I elope and have a wedding later?
Yes. Many couples elope legally and celebrate later.
Marriage Without a Ceremony
Can you get married without a wedding?
Yes. A legal ceremony is required, but it can be simple. No need for a big event.
Can you be legally married without a minister or officiant?
No. California law requires a licensed officiant.
Can I get married by signing a paper?
No. You must also complete a legal ceremony.
What is a civil marriage?
A non-religious, legally binding ceremony.
What happens if we just sign a marriage license?
That is not legally sufficient. A ceremony is required.
Do we have to exchange vows?
Only a legal declaration is required — like saying “I do.” Personal vows are optional.
Marriage Documentation & Proof of Marriage
What is a proof of marriage letter?
It confirms your marriage. The official version is your certified marriage certificate.
How do I get an official marriage certificate?
We’ll file your license and request the certificate on your behalf.
Do I need to change my last name?
No. It’s optional. If you do, you’ll need to update documents like your ID and Social Security.
How long does it take to receive a marriage certificate?
1–3 weeks from the county after filing.
Can I get a copy of my marriage certificate online?
You can request it online, but it’s mailed or picked up in person.
How can I prove I’m married without a certificate?
You can use your filed license temporarily, but it’s not official proof. Get Married Today files promptly.
Do I need to register my marriage after the wedding?
No. We do that for you by submitting your signed license.
How do I update my name after getting married?
Use your marriage certificate to change your name with SSA, DMV, banks, etc.
What are common mistakes that can make a marriage invalid?
Not having a license, officiant, ceremony, or not filing your license.
What happens if you lose your marriage certificate?
You can request a certified copy from the county where it was filed.
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t wait. If you’re ready to get married now, Get Married Today is the fastest, most convenient, and legally sound way to say “I do.” Visit https://getmarried.today to book your appointment.
California Department of Public Health – Marriage Licenses
Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk – Marriage Services
Orange County Clerk-Recorder – Marriage Services
San Diego County – Marriage Licenses
Riverside County Clerk – Marriage License Info
Sacramento County Clerk – Marriage License Appointments
San Bernardino County Recorder – Marriage Services
City of Beverly Hills – Marriage Services
City of Newport Beach – Marriage License Information
City of Anaheim – City Clerk’s Marriage Page
U.S. Department of State – Marriage Abroad
California Courts – Marriage Overview
National Center for Health Statistics – Marriage & Divorce
American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
California Legislative Information – Marriage Laws
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services – Marriage-Based Green Card
Los Angeles Times – Marriage Licenses Info
Visit California – Romantic Getaways
City of San Juan Capistrano – Marriage Services
City of Irvine – Marriage Info
California Department of Consumer Affairs – Marriage Officiants
County of Ventura – Marriage Services
City of West Hollywood – Marriage License Information
City of Long Beach – Marriage License
City of Santa Monica – Marriage Ceremonies
City of Pasadena – City Clerk Marriage Page
California Department of Social Services – Marriage Programs
U.S. Embassy – Marriage Requirements by Country
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Marriage Trends
California Association of Legal Document Assistants
City of Laguna Beach – Marriage Licensing
City of Huntington Beach – Marriage Services
City of Costa Mesa – Marriage Licensing
City of Fountain Valley – City Clerk Marriage
City of Santa Ana – Marriage License Services
California Secretary of State – Notary Public
City of Garden Grove – Marriage Information
City of Fullerton – Marriage Services
WeddingWire – Same Day Wedding Vendors
Martha Stewart Weddings – Wedding Planning Tools
Los Angeles Wedding Officiant Services
Offbeat Bride – Unique Elopement Ideas
Simply Eloped – California Packages
Forevermore Weddings California
Marriage License Fast Track – Orange County
Love Stream – Virtual Weddings
Los Angeles County – Confidential Marriage License
LA Wedding Woman – Same Day Services
Los Angeles Courthouse Weddings
Chapel of the Flowers – Vegas Elopements
City of Burbank – Marriage Services
City of Glendale Clerk Services
Oceanside City Clerk – Marriage
Carlsbad City Clerk – Marriage Info
San Clemente Marriage Licensing
City of Dana Point Clerk Services
Aliso Viejo Clerk – Marriage Info
California Notary Public Directory
State Bar of California – Legal Help
Better Business Bureau – Wedding Vendors
Yelp – Same Day Marriage Services
Wedding Spot – California Packages
Elopement Vendors – California
Pop the Knot – Pop-Up Weddings
Elopement Love – Southern California
Wedding Maps – Elopement Locations
U.S. Census Bureau – Marriage Data
California Legislative Analyst’s Office – Family Services
State of California – Online Services
Universal Life Church – Become an Officiant
Marriage License Lookup California
U.S. Government Services – Marriage Requirements
Marriage License Express Services
LegalZoom – Marriage License Overview
FindLaw – Marriage Law in California
AVVO – Marriage and Family Lawyers
Wedding Pro – Local Wedding Pros
Thumbtack – Local Wedding Officiants
Zankyou – Wedding Planning Tools