Riverside County
Marriage License Requirements
If you’re planning to tie the knot in the picturesque state of California, understanding the marriage license process and associated fees is crucial. This guide provides you with all the necessary information to make your journey towards matrimony a smooth and hassle-free one.
Introduction
The journey towards a joyful union starts with understanding the intricate details of California’s marriage license system. From picturesque Riverside to charming Blythe, each city holds its own unique charm and regulations for couples seeking to take this significant step in their relationship.
Riverside Gateway: Your Starting Point
The Riverside Gateway serves as a fitting entry point to California’s marriage license process. Located at 2720 Gateway Dr., Riverside, CA 92507, this establishment welcomes couples with open arms. Operating from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, except for Court Approved Holidays, this gateway ensures that your path to marital bliss begins smoothly.
Riverside Downtown: Embracing Tradition
For those drawn to tradition, Riverside Downtown offers a classic setting for acquiring your marriage license. Situated at 4080 Lemon St, 1st Flr., Riverside, CA 92501, this center maintains its commitment to the timeless institution of marriage. With operational hours mirroring those of the Riverside Gateway, this location ensures convenience for couples.
Temecula: A Charming Choice
Amid the allure of Temecula lies the option to acquire your marriage license at 41002 County Center Drive, #230, Temecula, CA 92591-6027. Operating from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, this serene city provides couples with a charming backdrop as they embark on their marital journey.
Hemet: An Oasis of Love
Hemet, located at 880 N. State Street, Suite B-6, Hemet, CA 92543, offers couples a tranquil oasis to obtain their marriage license. With operational hours spanning both morning and afternoon on weekdays, this center caters to the varied schedules of couples ready to say “I do.”
Blythe: Where Love Knows No Bounds
In Blythe, located at 270 N Broadway, love transcends boundaries. With operational hours catering to mornings and afternoons on select weekdays, this location ensures that even amidst Court Approved Holidays, your journey towards marriage is supported.
Types of Marriage Licenses in California
Public Marriage License: For All to See
A public marriage license, as the name suggests, is accessible for public viewing. This option allows couples to celebrate their commitment openly, with their union’s details available for anyone interested.
Confidential Marriage License: A Private Commitment
For those seeking a more discreet approach, a confidential marriage license is the answer. This option safeguards personal information from public scrutiny. Only court orders or notarized applications can grant access to this information, ensuring your commitment remains private.
Required Information for a Marriage License Application
Valid Forms of Identification
When applying for a marriage license, both parties must present valid photo identification with birth dates. Acceptable forms include driver’s licenses, military IDs, passports, or green cards.
Proof of Age Requirement
To obtain a marriage license, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, a court order is necessary. This rule applies even to emancipated minors, with the original court order being a requirement.
The Marriage License Application Process
The Confidential Marriage License Option
For couples living together as a married couple, the confidential marriage license option is available. This alternative maintains the same ID requirements while ensuring privacy.
A Waiting Period Unlike Any Other
California stands apart with its lack of a waiting period. As soon as you submit your marriage license application, you’ll receive the license immediately.
Residency Requirements: Anyone Can Say “I Do”
Unlike some regions, California doesn’t mandate residency for marrying within its borders. This openness allows couples from various locations to exchange their vows on California soil.
Previous Marriages: Navigating Past Relationships
Divorce Records: A Crucial Step
If either party has experienced divorce or dissolution of a State Registered Domestic Partnership within 90 days, a copy of the final dissolution is necessary. This requirement ensures transparency and clarity regarding your previous marital status.
Marriage License Fees: What It Costs to Say “Forever”
A significant consideration is the marriage license fee. For a public license, the fee is $90, while a confidential license requires $100. Ensuring your payment aligns with these fees is vital.
Special Marriage Scenarios
Proxy Marriages: Distance and Devotion
While many states allow proxy marriages, California does not. Both parties, the officiant, and any witnesses must be physically present at the ceremony.
Cousin Marriages: Embracing Tradition
First and second cousins can legally marry in California, maintaining a tradition that’s accepted in some regions and prohibited in others.
Common Law Marriages: Not an Option
Unlike some states, California doesn’t recognize common law marriages. A formal legal marriage is required for your union to be recognized.
Marriage License Requirements and Process
No Blood Tests Required
Unlike certain states, California does not require blood tests for obtaining a marriage license. This streamlined process removes unnecessary hurdles from your path to matrimony.
Name Change Considerations
Acquiring a marriage license with your new name isn’t synonymous with an automatic name change. If you’re considering a name change, exploring an online marriage name change kit is a convenient option.
Minor Marriages: The Legal Process
For parties under 18, a court order is mandatory before a marriage license can be issued. This also applies to emancipated minors, with the original court order serving as proof.
Authorized Marriage Officiants
Religious Leaders: Uniting Hearts
Priests, ministers, and rabbis of any religious denomination are authorized to solemnize marriage ceremonies in California.
Judges and Magistrates: Legal Unions
Various judges and magistrates, including retired officials, hold the authority to officiate marriages. This diverse group ensures couples have multiple options for their officiant.
Other Authorized Officiants: A Diverse Landscape
Additional authorized officiants include legislators, constitutional officers, and members of Congress representing districts within the state. This range ensures couples can select an officiant aligned with their values.
Witnessing the Commitment
Public Marriage License Witnesses
A public marriage license requires the signature of one witness. If desired, an additional witness can also sign, with a maximum of two witnesses allowed.
Confidential Marriage License Witnesses
Confidential marriage licenses do not require witnesses’ signatures. This privacy feature ensures your commitment remains between you and your partner.
Expiration Date and Beyond
Marriage License Validity: 90 Days of Bliss
Marriage licenses remain valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. If your nuptials aren’t celebrated within this timeframe, you’ll need to acquire a new license to proceed.
Exploring California’s Marriage Records
For birth, death, fetal death, still birth, marriage, and divorce records in California, the California Department of Public Health Vital Records is the official repository. This ensures a comprehensive record of your marriage journey.
In conclusion, embarking on the path to matrimony in California is a journey filled with joy, commitment, and a touch of bureaucracy. By understanding the nuances of the marriage license process, associated fees, and requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to take this significant step towards a lifetime of happiness.
FAQs
1. How much does a public marriage license cost in California?
- A public marriage license in California costs $90.
2. What is the fee for a confidential marriage license in California?
- The fee for a confidential marriage license is $100.
3. Are blood tests required to obtain a marriage license in California?
- No, blood tests are not required to obtain a marriage license in California.
4. Can cousins marry in California?
- Yes, first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in California.
5. Is common law marriage recognized in California?
- No, common law marriages are not recognized in California.
