How to Get a Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate in California (County-by-County Guide)

If you recently got married in California and need to update your last name, apply for benefits, or complete legal paperwork, you’ll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Below is a county-by-county guide on how to obtain a certified marriage certificate in California.

Click here for our complete guide on how to change your name in California.

Where to Request a Certified Marriage Certificate in California

You can request your marriage certificate from the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office in the county where your marriage license was issued.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Certified Copy

1. Determine the County: You must request your marriage certificate from the same county where your marriage license was issued.
2. Complete the Application: Each county has a specific application form. You may need to provide:
   • Full names of both spouses at the time of marriage
   • Date of marriage
   • Marriage license number (if available)
3. Provide Identification: A government-issued photo ID is often required.
4. Submit the Fee: Fees range from $15 to $20 per copy, depending on the county.
5. Choose Your Submission Method:
   • In-Person: Some counties allow same-day processing for walk-ins.
   • Mail Request: You must include a notarized sworn statement (required for confidential marriages).
   • Online Orders: Some counties use third-party services like VitalChek.

Processing Times

• In-Person: Immediate to 24 hours
• Mail Requests: 2-6 weeks
• Online Orders: 1-2 weeks with expedited shipping

County-by-County Marriage Certificate Request Guide

Here’s how to request a certified copy in major counties:

Los Angeles County

• Website: Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder
• Cost: $15 per copy
• In-Person: 12400 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650
• Online Orders: Available via VitalChek
• Mail Requests: Send completed application and fee to Registrar-Recorder

San Diego County

• Website: San Diego County Recorder
• Cost: $15 per copy
• In-Person: 1600 Pacific Highway, Suite 260, San Diego, CA 92101
• Online Orders: Available via VitalChek
• Mail Requests: Submit application with check/money order

Orange County

• Website: Orange County Clerk-Recorder
• Cost: $15 per copy
• In-Person: 601 N. Ross St., Santa Ana, CA 92701
• Online Orders: Available via VitalChek
• Mail Requests: Requires notarized sworn statement

San Francisco County

• Website: San Francisco County Clerk
• Cost: $17 per copy
• In-Person: 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 190, San Francisco, CA 94102
• Mail Requests: Submit application, notarized sworn statement, and payment

Sacramento County

• Website: Sacramento County Clerk
• Cost: $15 per copy
• In-Person: 600 8th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Online Orders: Available via VitalChek

Riverside County

• Website: Riverside County Clerk
• Cost: $15 per copy
• In-Person: 2724 Gateway Drive, Riverside, CA 92507
• Online Orders: Available via VitalChek

FAQs About Getting a Certified Marriage Certificate in California

Can I Get a Copy If I Was Not One of the Spouses?

Only authorized individuals can obtain a certified copy, including:

• Either spouse
• A parent or legal guardian
• A legal representative
• A government agency

What If My Marriage Certificate Has a Mistake?

You must file a correction request with the County Clerk’s Office where your marriage was recorded.

How Long Does It Take to Get My Marriage Certificate?

• In-person requests: Immediate to 24 hours
• Mail requests: 2-6 weeks
• Online orders: 1-2 weeks with expedited processing

Final Steps: Updating Your Name After Marriage

Once you have your marriage certificate, you can begin updating your name on legal documents:

• Social Security Administration (SSA)
• California DMV (driver’s license & Real ID)
• Passport
• Banks and credit cards
• Utility bills and insurance providers