Learn the truth about confidential marriage licenses in California. Debunk myths, understand real rules, and see why many couples choose this private marriage option.
Confidential Marriage Licenses: What’s Real & What’s Not
Confidential marriage licenses are one of the most misunderstood legal marriage options in California. People often believe they’re “secret weddings,” only for celebrities, or that they’re less valid than a public marriage license. None of this is true.
At Get Married Today, we help hundreds of couples use confidential marriage licenses correctly and legally. This blog clears up the most common myths so you can choose the option that truly fits your privacy needs.
Myth #1 — “Confidential marriage licenses are secret marriages.”
Truth: They are private, not secret. The record is sealed to the public, but still fully legal, recorded, and recognized.
Myth #2 — “Only celebrities use confidential licenses.”
Everyday couples choose them for privacy, safety, immigration, blended families, or peace of mind.
Myth #3 — “Confidential marriages aren’t legally valid.”
Confidential licenses are equally valid as public ones. Both lead to fully legal marriages recognized locally, nationally, and internationally.
Myth #4 — “You must live in California to get one.”
Not true. Couples from any state or country can get a confidential license as long as the ceremony occurs in California.
Myth #5 — “Confidential licenses are harder to obtain.”
In reality, they are often easier and faster because they require no witnesses and offer streamlined processing.
Myth #6 — “You can’t get certified copies later.”
You absolutely can—certified copies are simply requested differently because the record is sealed.
Myth #7 — “Confidential means hidden from immigration or the government.”
No. Government agencies (USCIS, DMV, SSA, etc.) still recognize and verify confidential marriages.
Myth #8 — “They take longer to process.”
Both confidential and public licenses process on similar timelines once submitted.
Myth #9 — “You must keep the marriage private.”
You can still announce it to anyone you want—confidentiality applies only to public record searches.
Myth #10 — “You can’t have a ceremony later.”
You can absolutely have a large wedding later. The confidential license handles the legal part; your celebration can happen anytime.
Why Couples Choose Confidential Marriage Licenses
- Privacy from the public record
- No witness required
- Streamlined legal process
- Ideal for last-minute marriages
- Useful for immigration petition timing
- Perfect for couples who value discretion
- Useful for situations involving safety or sensitive family matters
30 Resources
- getmarried.today
- getmarried.today/confidential-marriage
- getmarried.today/same-day-marriage
- getmarried.today/marriage-license
- getmarried.today/faq
- getmarried.today/blog
- getmarried.today/mobile-officiant
- getmarried.today/elopement
- getmarried.today/private-ceremony
- getmarried.today/wedding-requirements
- yourlocalnotarypublic.com
- yourlocalnotarypublic.com/notary-services
- orangecountyapostille.org
- orangecountyapostille.org/marriage-certificate
- orangecountyapostille.org/document-services
- www.cdc.gov
- www.ca.gov
- www.sos.ca.gov
- www.travel.state.gov
- www.uscis.gov
- www.oag.ca.gov
- www.cdph.ca.gov
- www.lacounty.gov
- www.ocgov.com
- www.riversidecountyclerk.org
- www.sandiegocounty.gov
- www.usmarriagelaws.com
- www.courts.ca.gov
- www.fbi.gov
- www.dhs.gov
30 FAQs — Confidential Marriage License Myths & Truths
1. What is a confidential marriage license?
A private marriage license available only in California, recorded but not publicly searchable.
2. Is a confidential marriage legally valid?
Yes, it is equally valid as a public marriage license.
3. Can anyone get a confidential marriage license?
Any eligible couple can, regardless of residency or citizenship.
4. Is the record sealed from the public?
Yes, only the couple can request certified copies.
5. Do confidential marriages require witnesses?
No. This is one of the main benefits.
6. Is a confidential marriage considered secret?
No. It’s simply shielded from public record searches.
7. Can family still know we got married?
Yes, confidentiality applies only to the records office.
8. Can a confidential marriage license be used for immigration?
Yes, it is fully accepted by USCIS and all federal agencies.
9. Do we need to live together to qualify?
Couples generally attest they are living together at the time of application.
10. Can I order certified copies later?
Yes, but only the couple may request them.
11. Can we have a big wedding later?
Absolutely. Your legal marriage can happen first; the celebration can follow anytime.
12. Are ceremonies private?
They can be completely private or include guests—your choice.
13. Can tourists get confidential marriage licenses?
Yes, as long as the ceremony is performed in California.
14. Are confidential licenses processed faster?
Often, yes, due to simplified requirements.
15. Can we file for name change with a confidential marriage?
Yes, it works the same as a public marriage certificate.
16. Can divorced couples remarry with a confidential license?
Yes, as long as they meet legal requirements.
17. Are confidential marriages recognized abroad?
Yes, once the certified copy is obtained and apostilled if needed.
18. How do we prove marriage to government agencies?
With a certified copy of your confidential marriage certificate.
19. Can military couples use confidential licenses?
Yes, many do for privacy.
20. Do confidential marriages cost more?
Costs vary county by county but are not determined by privacy status.
21. Is a confidential marriage harder to end?
No. Divorce procedures remain identical.
22. Is the officiant’s role different?
No. The same legal procedures apply.
23. Does confidentiality expire?
No. Records remain sealed permanently.
24. Does this hide the marriage from background checks?
Yes, public searches won’t reveal it unless you submit your certificate yourself.
25. Do we need appointments?
Appointments help, but same-day services exist.
26. Can we upgrade to a public license later?
No, the record type cannot be changed after recording.
27. Can minors use confidential licenses?
Restrictions apply; both parties typically must be adults.
28. Is the marriage date public?
Not with a confidential license.
29. Can an employer verify a confidential marriage?
Only if you provide the certificate.
30. Why do couples choose confidential marriages?
Privacy, simplicity, no witnesses, and added discretion.