Summary
- If you’re planning to get married in a different county in California, you can still apply for your marriage license in San Diego County.
- The San Diego County Clerk’s Office offers a variety of resources for couples planning to get married, including online marriage preparation classes and information on how to change your name after marriage.
- Applying for a marriage license in San Diego is a significant step in your journey to marital bliss.
Are you and your beloved planning to embark on the joyous journey of matrimony in the beautiful city of San Diego? If so, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license, a crucial document that legally recognizes your union. This blog post will guide you through the process of applying for a marriage license in San Diego, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Heading 2: Before You Begin
Before embarking on the application process, it’s essential to ensure that you and your partner meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the San Diego County Clerk’s Office. These requirements include:
- Being at least 18 years of age.
- If under 18, possessing a court order granting permission to marry.
- Not being currently married to another person.
- Not being related to your partner by blood or adoption within certain degrees of kinship.
- Having the mental capacity to consent to marriage.
Heading 2: Gathering the Necessary Documents
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, you’ll need to gather the following documents to apply for your marriage license:
- Valid government-issued photo identification for both parties (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
- Certified copies of birth certificates for both parties.
- If either party has been previously married, a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse.
- If either party has changed their name through a court order, a certified copy of the name change order.
Heading 2: Completing the Application Form
With your documents in order, you can now access the San Diego County Clerk’s Office website to complete the online marriage license application form. The form will request basic information about both parties, including your names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers. You’ll also need to provide information about any previous marriages and name changes.
Heading 2: Paying the Application Fee
Once you’ve completed the application form, you’ll need to pay the marriage license fee. The current fee is $80, which can be paid online using a credit or debit card.
Heading 2: Attending a Marriage License Appointment
After submitting your application and paying the fee, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at the San Diego County Clerk‘s Office to finalize the process. During your appointment, a clerk will review your application and documents, and if everything is in order, they will issue your marriage license.
Heading 2: Waiting Period and Officiant Requirements
In California, there is a three-day waiting period between the date you receive your marriage license and the date you can legally get married. This waiting period is designed to give couples time to reflect on their decision and to ensure that they are entering into the marriage voluntarily.
To solemnize your marriage, you’ll need to find an officiant who is authorized to perform marriages in California. This could be a judge, a religious leader, or a notary public.
Heading 2: Getting Married and Returning Your License
On the day of your wedding, you and your officiant will need to sign the marriage license. The officiant will then file the license with the San Diego County Clerk‘s Office within 10 days of the ceremony. Once the license is filed, your marriage will be officially recognized by the state of California.
Heading 2: Additional Tips and Considerations
- If you’re planning to get married in a different county in California, you can still apply for your marriage license in San Diego County. However, you’ll need to contact the county clerk’s office in the county where you plan to get married to find out their specific requirements.
- If you’re not sure which documents you need to bring with you to apply for your marriage license, you can contact the San Diego County Clerk’s Office for assistance.
- The San Diego County Clerk’s Office offers a variety of resources for couples planning to get married, including online marriage preparation classes and information on how to change your name after marriage.
Ending with a Flourish: A Matrimonial Journey Begins in San Diego
Applying for a marriage license in San Diego is a significant step in your journey to marital bliss. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that the process is smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus on the joy and excitement of your upcoming nuptials. Congratulations on taking this momentous step together!
FAQ
Q: What are the residency requirements for getting married in San Diego County?
A: There are no residency requirements for getting married in San Diego County. You can apply for a marriage license even if you don’t live in the county.
Q: Can I get married the same day I apply for my marriage license?
A: No, there is a three-day waiting period between the date you receive your marriage license and the date you can legally get married.
Q: How long is a marriage license valid for?
A: A marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date it is issued. If you do not get married within 90 days, you will need to apply for a new license.
