wedding ceremony - how to fill out a marriage license as an officiant

Why Properly Filling Out a Marriage License is Crucial

When you are tasked with how to fill out a marriage license as an officiant, there are key steps you must follow to make the marriage legally binding. Here are the basics you’ll need to know:

  1. Groom’s information – Full name, birth city, and state.
  2. Bride’s information – Full maiden name, birth city, and state.
  3. Wedding venue details – Address, date, and time.
  4. Officiant details – Legal name and title.
  5. Witness signatures – Ensure at least one witness signs.
  6. Return the license – Submit it to the county clerk within the required timeframe.

Filling out the marriage license properly is critical. Your duty as an officiant ensures that the marriage is legally recognized. Mistakes could invalidate the marriage and force the couple to redo the process, which can be stressful.

I’m Camden Gray Alchanati, founder of Get Married Today. With my experience in handling marriage licenses swiftly and accurately, I’ve helped countless couples in Southern California tie the knot without a hitch. Let’s dive deeper into ensuring you get everything right.

Checklist for officiants filling out a marriage license - how to fill out a marriage license as an officiant infographic pillar-5-steps

Understanding the Marriage License

Marriage License vs. Marriage Certificate

marriage license and a marriage certificate are two different documents, each serving a unique purpose in the marriage process.

  • Marriage License: This is a legal document that you must obtain before your wedding. It grants you permission to get married. Think of it as your ticket to the ceremony. Without it, you cannot legally tie the knot.
  • Marriage Certificate: This is an official document issued after the wedding ceremony. It proves that you are legally married. It’s what you will use to change your name, update your marital status on legal documents, and more.
Marriage License vs. Marriage Certificate - how to fill out a marriage license as an officiant

Legal Document

The marriage license is a critical legal document. It includes important details about the couple and the officiant. These details must be accurate to ensure the marriage is legally binding.

Key Points:

  • Obtained Before the Wedding: You must get this document before the ceremony.
  • Issued by County Clerk’s Office: In California, you can get it from any County Clerk’s Office.
  • Validity Period: Typically valid for about two months. Ensure your wedding is within this period.

Commemorative Document

marriage certificate, on the other hand, is more of a commemorative document. While it is also a legal document, many couples get additional, decorative versions to celebrate their union.

  • Issued After the Wedding: This document is issued after you are married.
  • Proof of Marriage: It serves as proof of your marriage. You will need it for various legal and personal matters.

Understanding these documents and their purposes will help you steer the marriage process smoothly. For any questions or further assistance, contact us at Get Married Today.

How to Fill Out a Marriage License as an Officiant

Adding Your Official Title

First, make sure you’re ordained. If you’re with the Universal Life Church (ULC) or American Marriage Ministries (AMM), your title is “Minister.” Write “Minister” in the appropriate box on the marriage license.

Listing Your Church Affiliation

When asked for your church affiliation, write “Universal Life Church” if you’re ordained through ULC. If you’re with AMM, fill in “American Marriage Ministries.”

Clarifying the Ceremony Type

You’ll need to indicate whether the ceremony was religious or civil. Even if the ceremony had no religious elements, mark “Religious.” Your ordination through ULC or AMM gives you legal authority to conduct religious ceremonies.

Adding Your Religious Denomination

For the religious denomination, write “Non-Denominational.” This applies even if the ceremony was secular. If the form doesn’t accept “Non-Denominational,” use “Universal Life Church” or “American Marriage Ministries.”

Including the Witnesses

Most states, including California, require at least one witness. Typically, the best man and maid of honor act as witnesses. Make sure they sign the marriage license in the designated fields right after the ceremony.

Returning the Marriage License On Time

California requires the marriage license to be returned within 10 days of the ceremony. Send it to the same office that issued it. Once filed, the marriage is legally binding.

For more details on how to fill out a marriage license as an officiant or any other questions, visit our website Get Married Today.

Specific Requirements for California

California Laws

In California, several specific laws govern the marriage license process. It’s crucial to understand these to ensure that the marriage is legally recognized. The California Family Code Section 400 outlines who can officiate a wedding, which includes judges, clergy members, and even deputized friends or relatives for a day.

County Probate Courts

Marriage licenses in California are issued by county probate courts. The couple must apply for their license in the county where the ceremony will take place if neither is a resident of California. Otherwise, they can apply in any county.

Proof of Age

Both parties must be at least 18 years old to get married without parental consent. They need to bring valid, unexpired, government-issued photo IDs, such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID, to prove their age.

Proof of Divorce

If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof that the marriage was legally dissolved. This usually means presenting a final divorce decree. If the divorce was finalized within the last 90 days, additional documentation may be required.

Method of Payment

Each county may have different fees for obtaining a marriage license. Typically, the fee ranges from $50 to $100 and can usually be paid by cash, check, or credit card. It’s a good idea to check with the specific county probate court for their accepted payment methods.

Returning the License

After the ceremony, the marriage license must be returned to the county clerk’s office that issued it within 10 days. This can be done by mail or in person. Once received and recorded by the clerk, the marriage becomes legally binding.

For more details on how to fill out a marriage license as an officiant or any other questions, call us at (949) 423-6731 or book today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Filling Out a Marriage License

What is required to officiate a wedding in California?

To officiate a wedding in California, you must be legally authorized. This can include being a judge, magistrate, or an ordained minister. Many people become ordained online through organizations like the Universal Life Church or American Marriage Ministries. Make sure to check California’s official site for more details about the specific requirements.

Who signs a marriage license in California?

In California, the marriage license must be signed by several parties:

  • The Couple: Both partners getting married must sign the license.
  • The Officiant: The person who officiates the wedding must also sign.
  • Witnesses: California requires at least one witness to sign the marriage license. The witness must be present during the ceremony.

Does California recognize online ordained ministers?

Yes, California recognizes online ordained ministers. Organizations like the Universal Life Church and American Marriage Ministries offer online ordination that is legally valid in California. This allows you to officiate weddings without needing to be affiliated with a traditional religious institution.

For any further questions or to ensure compliance with all requirements, please call us at (949) 423-6731 or book today.

Conclusion

At Get Married Today, we understand that officiating a wedding is both a privilege and a responsibility. As an officiant, knowing how to fill out a marriage license correctly is crucial for the couple’s legal union.

If you’re planning a wedding in Southern California, we’re here to help every step of the way. Our services are designed to make your special day as smooth and memorable as possible.

For any further questions or to ensure compliance with all requirements, please visit our website Get Married Today.

Whether you’re a first-time officiant or an experienced one, our team at Get Married Today is always ready to assist you. We look forward to being part of your joyous occasion!

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