In this workflow, most couples do not need a separate courthouse or county clerk visit for licensing + ceremony. The goal is one appointment with the required steps completed in the correct order.

Most couples use a driver’s license, state ID, passport, military ID, or permanent resident card. The key is a valid government-issued photo ID that clearly identifies the person signing the license.

Yes, many non-U.S. citizens marry in California. You still must meet ID and eligibility requirements, and you may later request certified copies and apostille if the certificate will be used abroad.

Generally, no. Confidential licenses usually do not require witnesses, which is one reason they’re popular for private and same-day marriages.

Confidential licenses require that the couple is living together as spouses or realistically plans to live together as a married couple. This requirement is tied to the license type itself.

Long-distance couples often qualify if they are genuinely planning to live together as spouses after marriage. Be ready to provide your current address and your plan to cohabit.

If a prior marriage ended within the last 2 years, you generally need physical proof (final decree/judgment, death certificate, annulment order). If it ended more than 2 years ago, you typically provide accurate dates/details without bringing proof.

Common examples include a final divorce judgment/decree, a death certificate, or an annulment order. It must be the official document that shows the legal end of the prior marriage.

Try to obtain the exact date before your appointment because accuracy prevents delays. If you ended the marriage within the last 2 years, bring the decree so the date can be verified.

Resolve name discrepancies before the appointment when possible. Even small spelling differences can cause problems later when requesting certified copies or using the certificate for benefits or immigration.

For a same-day license + ceremony workflow, both partners are typically present to verify identity, sign, and consent. This is also important for the legal ceremony itself.

Both partners must understand what they’re doing, answer basic questions, and consent freely. If a partner cannot demonstrate informed consent, the marriage cannot proceed legally.

Most marriages are for adults (18+). If you have a unique legal situation involving age or guardianship, you should review official state guidance and consult your own legal counsel.

Yes, parent name information is commonly collected for license paperwork. Bring correct spelling to avoid errors that could cause delays later.

Provide the most accurate information you have. Requirements can vary by scenario; the priority is accuracy and consistency with existing records when possible.

Many couples choose same-day services specifically because government offices are closed or booked. The requirements remain the same regardless of date: valid IDs, eligibility, and accurate prior-marriage information.

Certified copies are issued through the county’s certified-copy process after the record is filed. Plan ahead if you need copies for immigration, benefits, or international use.

Confidential records are generally not searchable like public records. Access to certified copies is usually limited to the parties and authorized channels, which supports privacy.

Yes, but many countries require a certified copy and may require apostille/legalization. Apostille is typically done after certified copies are issued.

Bring valid IDs, confirm spelling for names/parents’ names, know prior marriage end dates, and bring proof if your prior marriage ended within the last 2 years. Accuracy is the fastest path.