Yes. Same-sex marriages are recognized under California law on the same terms as all marriages. Your marriage is legally valid, and the recorded certificate can be used for benefits, name-change workflows, and other official updates once certified copies are issued.

Often, yes—depending on availability and eligibility. The fastest path is typically a single appointment that includes license issuance plus a ceremony, completed together in one streamlined visit.

Yes, eligible couples can use a confidential California marriage license. Many LGBTQ+ couples prefer this option for privacy, while still keeping the marriage fully legal and recordable through county procedures.

Confidential marriage licenses generally do not require witnesses, which simplifies planning. If your situation uses a different license type, witness requirements can change based on the license rules.

Both partners need valid government-issued photo ID. Bring the original ID so names and details can be verified and recorded correctly for the legal paperwork.

Both partners must be able to understand what marriage is, answer basic questions, and voluntarily consent at the time of signing and ceremony. If a partner cannot demonstrate informed consent, the marriage cannot proceed legally.

Yes. Many couples choose a simple civil-style ceremony, while others prefer a semi-formal tone with a more polished script. The officiant will still include required legal elements for validity.

Yes. Ceremony language can usually be tailored to your pronouns, titles, and preferences. Legal documents must reflect legal names and required fields, but the ceremony script can be respectful and affirming.

Yes. Mobile services can be arranged at locations like a home, hotel, park, beach, or venue, depending on feasibility and location rules. The legal structure remains the same: license (as applicable) + ceremony + proper signing and filing steps.

Sometimes, yes—subject to facility access policies and timing. Both partners still must have valid ID and be coherent enough to consent; if those legal requirements aren’t met, the marriage cannot proceed.

If you already have a valid license, you may only need ceremony/officiant services. Choose a ceremony-only option that fits your guest count and preferred setting, and bring the license to the appointment.

Certified copies are issued through the county after the record is filed. Processing timelines vary by county. In the meantime, your “proof of marriage” guidance explains what you may use while waiting.

Many couples marry for immigration-related timelines, but requirements vary. Most official filings prefer a certified copy of the marriage certificate, so plan to request certified copies after filing and recording.

International couples can marry in California if they meet standard requirements. If the certificate must be used abroad, you may need certified copies and possibly an apostille after the county issues certified copies.

Often yes—once you have a county-issued certified copy. Apostille applies to the certified copy, and the destination country’s rules determine whether translation or additional steps are needed.

If a domestic partnership is still legally active, it may need dissolution depending on your circumstances. For complex situations, consult your own attorney; general California resources are linked in the page resources section.

Yes. Some couples remarry for personal reasons, legal timing, or to create a new record for a new phase of life. Standard eligibility requirements still apply.

Usually, yes. Personal vows and ring exchange can be included as long as the officiant also includes the required legal elements so the ceremony remains compliant and valid.

Many couples marry on weekends, evenings, and holidays, subject to appointment availability. Booking ahead helps secure your preferred date and reduces last-minute constraints.

Start by reviewing requirements and deciding whether you need license + ceremony or ceremony-only. Then choose the service option that matches your location and timeline, and book the appointment.