Marriage in Los Angeles: How to Get Married Today with Ease
Los Angeles, with its vibrant culture and iconic landscapes, offers couples a myriad of options to tie the knot. For those eager to get married on the same day, the city provides several avenues to make this a reality. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a marriage license and having your ceremony in Los Angeles, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
Understanding Marriage Licenses in California
Before diving into the specifics of same-day marriages, it’s essential to understand the two primary types of marriage licenses available in California:
- Public Marriage License: This license is a matter of public record. It requires at least one witness during the ceremony, and the marriage becomes part of public records.
- Confidential Marriage License: As the name suggests, this license is not part of public records. It doesn’t require any witnesses, but the couple must attest that they have been living together as spouses.
Both licenses are valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, allowing couples ample time to plan their ceremony.
Eligibility Requirements
To obtain a marriage license in Los Angeles County, couples must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Minors require a notarized consent statement from a parent or guardian and an order from the Superior Court granting permission.
- Marital Status: Both individuals must be unmarried. If previously married, proof of divorce or dissolution is required, especially if it occurred within the last two years. CDPH
- Identification: Valid photo identification that verifies name and date of birth is mandatory. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID card.
- Residency: There are no residency or citizenship requirements to obtain a marriage license in California.
Steps to Obtain a Marriage License and Ceremony on the Same Day
1. Apply for a Marriage License
Couples can apply for a marriage license through the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office. The application can be completed online, but both parties must appear in person to finalize the process.
Required Documents:
- Valid photo identification for both parties.
- If applicable, proof of divorce or dissolution.
Fees:
- Public Marriage License: $90
- Confidential Marriage License: $85
2. Schedule and Conduct the Ceremony
Once the marriage license is obtained, couples have several options for the ceremony:
Express Marriage Ceremonies by the County
The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk offers express marriage ceremonies by appointment. This service is ideal for couples seeking a simple and quick marriage process. Appointments are set for 45 minutes and are available at all seven branch locations. A witness is required for public marriage licenses; if unavailable, the county can provide one for a fee of $20.
Authorized Marriage Service Providers
Several authorized private service providers in Los Angeles specialize in same-day marriages. These providers can issue marriage licenses and conduct ceremonies promptly. Some notable options include:
- Same Day Marriage Los Angeles: Offers instant marriage services with a beautiful chapel for ceremonies.
- Instant Marriage LA: Provides marriage licenses and ceremonies, completing the process in under an hour.
- 1 Hour Marriage: Specializes in confidential marriage licenses and legal ceremonies with same-day appointments. 1 Hour Marriage
- 24 Hour Marriage LA: Offers around-the-clock marriage services, ensuring couples can wed at any time.
Fees and Packages
Fees vary among providers and depend on the services included. For instance:
- Same Day Marriage Los Angeles: Offers packages starting at $150 for a no-guest ceremony, including the civil ceremony and instant proof of marriage. Same Day Marriage
- Instant Marriage LA: Provides a standard marriage package for $300, which includes the marriage license, civil ceremony, and filing of the marriage license.
Scheduling
It’s advisable to contact the chosen provider in advance to schedule an appointment. Many offer flexible hours and can accommodate short-notice requests.
3. Post-Ceremony: Obtaining the Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, the officiant will file the marriage license with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk. A certified copy of the marriage certificate can be obtained for a fee. This document serves as legal proof of marriage and is essential for name changes, insurance purposes, and other legal matters.