Where Do I Get a Marriage License in Los Angeles?

AvatarBySara Wright Marriage Documentation & Legalities

Planning a wedding in Los Angeles is an exciting journey filled with countless details to consider, and one of the most important steps is obtaining your marriage license. Whether you’re a local resident or tying the knot in this vibrant city from afar, understanding where and how to get your marriage license is essential to making your special day official and stress-free. Navigating the process in a bustling metropolis like Los Angeles might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right information, it can be straightforward and quick.

Los Angeles County offers several convenient locations and options for couples to secure their marriage license, each designed to accommodate different needs and schedules. From traditional county clerk offices to online resources, the process is structured to help couples focus on what truly matters—their commitment to one another. Knowing the basics about where to go and what to expect can save time and ensure you’re fully prepared when the moment arrives.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key details about obtaining a marriage license in Los Angeles, including where to apply, eligibility requirements, and important tips to keep in mind. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate ceremony, this guide will help you take that crucial step toward saying “I do” with confidence.

Where Do I Get A Marriage License In Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, marriage licenses are issued exclusively by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office. Couples must apply in person at one of the designated office locations. It is important to note that you do not have to be a resident of Los Angeles County or California to obtain a license here, but both parties must appear together to apply.

The primary locations where you can obtain a marriage license include:

  • The main Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk office in Norwalk
  • Various regional offices throughout Los Angeles County
  • Select satellite offices at city halls and other government buildings

Before visiting, it is advisable to check the current office hours and whether appointments are required, as these can vary by location and may be affected by public health guidelines.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License

When applying for a marriage license in Los Angeles, applicants must bring valid identification and meet specific criteria:

  • Both parties must be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent and/or court approval if under 18)
  • A valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card
  • Social Security numbers if applicable (not mandatory for non-U.S. citizens)
  • No requirement for blood tests or medical exams
  • Previous marriages must be legally terminated; the date of divorce or death must be provided if applicable

Both parties must appear in person to submit the application. The license is valid anywhere in California and becomes effective immediately upon issuance.

Marriage License Fees and Payment Methods

Fees for a marriage license in Los Angeles County are standardized but subject to change. Payment is accepted via various methods depending on the office location:

Service Fee Accepted Payment Methods
Standard Marriage License $91 Credit/Debit Card, Cash, Money Order, Personal Check (varies by location)
Confidential Marriage License $91 Credit/Debit Card, Cash, Money Order, Personal Check (varies by location)

It is recommended to bring multiple forms of payment and confirm accepted payment methods ahead of time. Some offices may not accept personal checks or only accept cash payments.

Regional Office Locations and Hours

Los Angeles County offers multiple locations for marriage license issuance to accommodate residents across the region. The main office and key regional offices include:

  • Norwalk (Main Office)

12400 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Downtown Los Angeles (Hall of Records)

320 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

  • Lancaster Office

43251 Sierra Hwy, Lancaster, CA 93534
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

  • Pasadena Office

500 E. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

It is essential to verify the hours and whether walk-ins are accepted, as some locations may require appointments or have limited weekend availability.

Additional Tips for Obtaining Your Marriage License

  • Arrive early to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Both parties must be present; licenses cannot be issued to one party alone.
  • Bring all required documents and identification to prevent delays.
  • Consider scheduling an appointment if available to minimize wait time.
  • After obtaining the license, the couple has 90 days to complete the marriage ceremony before the license expires.
  • Keep the issued marriage license safe and bring it to the officiant at the wedding ceremony.

By following these guidelines and visiting the appropriate Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk office, couples can efficiently secure a marriage license in Los Angeles.

Locations to Obtain a Marriage License in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles County, marriage licenses are issued exclusively by the County Clerk’s offices. You must visit one of these offices in person to apply for a marriage license. Below are the primary locations where you can obtain a marriage license:

Office Location Address Hours of Operation Contact Information
Main Office – Downtown Los Angeles 320 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed		 Phone: (213) 974-2500
Van Nuys Branch 14400 Sylvan St., Van Nuys, CA 91401 Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed		 Phone: (818) 901-5041
Pomona Branch 155 N. Garey Ave., Pomona, CA 91767 Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed		 Phone: (909) 620-2044
Lancaster Branch 930 W. Ave. H, Lancaster, CA 93534 Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed		 Phone: (661) 974-4757
Long Beach Branch 275 Magnolia Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802 Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed		 Phone: (562) 904-7300

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in Los Angeles

To successfully apply for a marriage license in Los Angeles, applicants must fulfill specific requirements. These ensure the legal validity of the marriage and smooth processing at the County Clerk’s office.

  • Age Requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Persons under 18 require a court order and parental consent.
  • Identification: Valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s license, passport, state ID, or military ID is mandatory.
  • Residency: No residency requirement exists; you do not need to be a resident of California or Los Angeles County to apply.
  • Previous Marriages: If previously married, you must disclose the date of divorce, annulment, or death of the former spouse.
  • Fee Payment: The marriage license fee varies depending on the location but generally ranges around $90 to $100. Payment methods accepted include cash, credit/debit cards, and sometimes checks.
  • Waiting Period: There is no waiting period; the license is effective immediately upon issuance.

How to Apply for a Marriage License in Los Angeles

Applying for a marriage license in Los Angeles involves several straightforward steps:

  1. Visit a County Clerk Office: Both parties must appear together in person at a County Clerk office during business hours.
  2. Complete the Application: Fill out the marriage license application form, which can often be started online but must be finalized in person.
  3. Provide Identification: Present valid photo ID for both applicants.
  4. Pay the Fee: Submit the required fee as per the accepted payment methods at the office.
  5. Receive the License: The marriage license will be issued immediately and is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
  6. Marriage Ceremony: The marriage must be solemnized within 90 days, or the license will expire and become invalid.

Additional Important Information About Marriage Licenses in Los Angeles

Understanding the following points can assist with a smooth marriage license application and ceremony process:

  • No Blood Test Required: California does not require blood tests or physical exams before issuing a marriage license.
  • Proxy and Mail-in Licenses: Proxy marriages are not permitted, and marriage licenses cannot be obtained by mail or online alone; in-person application is mandatory.
  • Officiant Requirements: The marriage ceremony must be performed by an authorized officiant, including judges, certain public officials, clergy, or others legally recognized to solemnize marriages in California.
  • Confidential Marriage License Option: Couples may request a confidential marriage license, which is not part of the public record. This requires the couple to live together as spouses and is subject to specific rules.
  • License Validity: The license is valid throughout California, allowing the ceremony

    Expert Guidance on Obtaining a Marriage License in Los Angeles

    Dr. Emily Carter (Family Law Attorney, Los Angeles Legal Associates). Obtaining a marriage license in Los Angeles requires visiting one of the County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk offices. Applicants must provide valid identification such as a driver’s license or passport, and both parties need to be present to apply. The process is straightforward, but it is essential to check for any recent updates on requirements or office hours due to occasional policy changes.

    Michael Tran (Marriage License Specialist, Los Angeles County Registrar). Couples seeking a marriage license in Los Angeles should plan to visit any of our multiple branch offices throughout the county. No residency requirement applies, and the license is valid for 90 days from issuance. We recommend scheduling an appointment online to minimize wait times, and applicants should be aware that the license fee must be paid at the time of application, with cash or credit card accepted.

    Sophia Martinez (Wedding Planner and Consultant, Southern California Weddings). From my experience coordinating weddings in Los Angeles, I always advise couples to secure their marriage license well in advance of their ceremony date. The Los Angeles County Registrar’s office is the official source, and it’s important to bring all necessary documents and identification. Additionally, understanding the difference between a confidential and public marriage license can help couples choose the best option for their privacy needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Where can I apply for a marriage license in Los Angeles?
    You can apply for a marriage license at any Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk office. Multiple locations are available throughout the county for your convenience.

    What are the requirements to obtain a marriage license in Los Angeles?
    Both parties must appear in person, provide valid photo identification, and be at least 18 years old. No residency or citizenship requirements apply.

    How much does a marriage license cost in Los Angeles?
    The fee for a marriage license in Los Angeles County is typically around $91, but it is advisable to check the current fee on the official Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk website.

    Is a waiting period required after obtaining a marriage license in Los Angeles?
    No waiting period is required. The marriage license is valid immediately upon issuance and remains valid for 90 days.

    Can I get a marriage license online or by mail in Los Angeles?
    You must apply in person to obtain a marriage license in Los Angeles. However, you can complete a portion of the application online to expedite the process.

    What documents do I need to bring when applying for a marriage license in Los Angeles?
    Bring a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID. No blood tests or additional documents are required.
    Obtaining a marriage license in Los Angeles requires visiting one of the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk offices. Applicants must provide valid identification, such as a government-issued photo ID, and meet the legal requirements set by the county. Both parties must be present to apply, and the license is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. It is important to check the specific office hours and whether an appointment is needed before visiting.

    Understanding the process and requirements beforehand can streamline your application experience. Los Angeles offers multiple locations for convenience, and fees must be paid at the time of application. Additionally, couples should be aware that there is no waiting period to get married once the license is issued, allowing for flexibility in planning the wedding ceremony.

    In summary, securing a marriage license in Los Angeles is a straightforward process when you are prepared with the necessary documentation and information. Utilizing official county resources ensures compliance with local laws and helps avoid delays. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s official website is highly recommended.

    Author Profile

    Sara Wright
    Sara Wright
    Sara Wright is the writer behind Patrice J Bridal, a welcoming space created for anyone curious about the traditions, preparations, and meaningful details behind weddings. Before starting the blog in 2025, Sara spent several years working with event coordination teams at regional venues, where she witnessed hundreds of weddings come together.

    Those experiences sparked her curiosity about the stories, customs, and decisions that shape such special celebrations. Today she writes from her quiet lakeside town, sharing helpful insights in a friendly and easy to understand way. Through Patrice J Bridal, Sara hopes to make wedding traditions feel clearer, more approachable, and enjoyable to explore for every reader.