How to Get a Marriage License in Long Beach

Getting a marriage license in Long Beach is a foundational step for couples planning to legally unite in marriage within Los Angeles County. Whether you’re a local resident or traveling from out of state, understanding the process ensures your wedding day proceeds smoothly and without legal complications. A marriage license is not merely a formality—it is a legal document that validates your union under California state law and is required before any ceremony can be performed by an authorized officiant. Without it, your marriage will not be recognized by the government, affecting everything from tax filings and healthcare benefits to inheritance rights and immigration status.

The process of obtaining a marriage license in Long Beach is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail, proper documentation, and adherence to specific timeframes and regulations. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know—from eligibility requirements and appointment scheduling to ceremony restrictions and post-license obligations. We’ll also cover best practices, essential tools, real-life examples, and answers to frequently asked questions to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning the application process, both parties must meet California’s legal criteria for marriage. These requirements are uniform across the state and apply to Long Beach residents and out-of-town couples alike.

• Age Requirement: Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, a court order and parental consent are required, which involves additional legal procedures.
• Marital Status: Neither person can be currently married to someone else. If previously married, you must provide proof of dissolution—such as a divorce decree or death certificate of a former spouse.
• Capacity to Consent: Both parties must be mentally competent and entering the marriage voluntarily, without coercion or fraud.
• Relationship: California law prohibits marriage between close blood relatives, including parents, children, siblings, aunts/uncles, and nieces/nephews.

Same-sex couples have the same rights and requirements as opposite-sex couples. California has recognized marriage equality since 2013, and all couples are treated equally under the law.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You will need to present valid, government-issued photo identification for both parties. Acceptable forms include:

• California driver’s license or state ID card
• U.S. passport
• Foreign passport with valid U.S. visa or I-94 form
• Permanent resident card (Green Card)
• Consular identification card issued by a foreign government (if accompanied by a valid visa)

If either party has been previously married, bring official documentation proving the termination of that marriage:

• Final divorce decree (certified copy)
• Death certificate of former spouse (certified copy)

Names on all documents must match exactly. If you’ve changed your name legally (e.g., after divorce), bring documentation of the legal name change. If there are minor discrepancies (e.g., middle initial missing), you may be asked to provide a sworn affidavit explaining the difference.

Step 3: Choose Your Location and Schedule an Appointment

The Los Angeles County Clerk’s Office issues marriage licenses at multiple locations, including the Long Beach Branch. While walk-ins are sometimes accepted, scheduling an appointment is strongly recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak wedding seasons (spring and fall).

To schedule an appointment:

1. Visit the official Los Angeles County Clerk website: lacounty.gov/dept/clk
2. Click on “Marriage License” under the “Services” section.
3. Select “Schedule an Appointment” and choose the Long Beach Branch location.
4. Choose a date and time that works for both parties. Appointments are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
5. Complete the online form with your full names, contact information, and preferred license type.

Appointments typically open 30 days in advance. If your wedding date is approaching and no slots are available, check daily for cancellations. Some couples find success by booking early in the morning, as new slots are often released at 7:00 a.m. Pacific Time.

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment in Person

Both parties must appear together at the Long Beach County Clerk’s Office. No exceptions are made for one party to apply on behalf of the other. You cannot apply by mail, online, or through a representative.

At the appointment:

• Present your photo ID and any required marriage termination documents.
• Complete the marriage license application form. This form asks for full legal names, birthdates, places of birth, parents’ full names, and current addresses.
• Pay the fee. As of 2024, a public marriage license costs $90, and a confidential marriage license costs $85. Both are payable by cash, credit card, or debit card. Checks are not accepted.
• Sign the application in front of a deputy clerk. Both parties must sign the form under penalty of perjury.

There is no waiting period in California. Once issued, your license is valid immediately and remains valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.

Step 5: Understand the Difference Between Public and Confidential Licenses

California offers two types of marriage licenses. Choosing the right one depends on your privacy preferences and residency status.

Public Marriage License

A public marriage license is the most common choice. It allows anyone to request a copy of the marriage record after the ceremony. This is ideal for couples who want their marriage to be part of the public record, such as for immigration purposes, name changes, or legal documentation.

With a public license, the officiant must be authorized to perform marriages in California (e.g., judge, clergy member, or certified deputy commissioner). The ceremony must be conducted within Los Angeles County, but it can take place anywhere in the state.

Confidential Marriage License

A confidential marriage license is available only to couples who are currently living together as spouses. This license is not part of the public record and can only be accessed by the married couple or by court order. It is often chosen by couples who value privacy or wish to avoid public exposure of personal details.

Key restrictions:

• Both parties must be cohabiting at the time of application.
• The ceremony must take place within Los Angeles County.
• Only the couple can obtain certified copies of the marriage certificate after the license is recorded.

Proof of cohabitation is not required at the time of application, but both parties must sign a declaration affirming they are living together. Providing false information on this declaration is a felony.

Step 6: Schedule and Conduct Your Wedding Ceremony

Once you have your license, you have 90 days to get married. You must have your ceremony performed by an authorized person:

• California judges or retired judges
• Current or retired federal judges
• Ordained ministers, priests, rabbis, or other religious leaders
• Deputy commissioners of civil marriages (appointed by the County Clerk)
• One-time designees (for non-religious ceremonies; requires separate application)

If you’re planning a non-religious ceremony, you can request to be appointed as a one-time deputy commissioner. This allows a friend or family member to legally officiate your wedding. To do so:

1. Download the “One-Time Deputy Commissioner” application from the LA County Clerk website.
2. Complete and submit the form at least 72 hours before your ceremony.
3. Pay a $100 fee (non-refundable).
4. Appear in person at the Long Beach Clerk’s Office to be sworn in.

Once the ceremony is performed, the officiant must sign the license and return it to the County Clerk’s Office within 10 days. Failure to do so invalidates the license, and you’ll need to reapply and pay again.

Step 7: Obtain Your Certified Marriage Certificate

After the officiant returns the signed license, the County Clerk’s Office processes it and records your marriage. This typically takes 2–8 weeks, depending on volume.

To obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate:

• Visit the Los Angeles County Clerk’s website and request a copy online.
• Use the mail-in request form available on the site.
• Visit the Long Beach Clerk’s Office in person.

Each certified copy costs $15. You’ll need to provide the full names of both spouses, the date of marriage, and the license number (found on the license). Only the married couple or immediate family members with legal standing can request certified copies.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, Especially During Peak Seasons

Long Beach is a popular wedding destination due to its beaches, historic venues, and scenic parks. Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the busiest times. If you’re planning a weekend wedding, book your appointment for the marriage license at least 6–8 weeks in advance. Many couples overlook this and find themselves scrambling for availability just weeks before their wedding.

Double-Check All Names and Spellings

Any discrepancy between your ID, application, and future legal documents can cause delays. If you plan to change your name after marriage, ensure your application reflects your intended legal name exactly as it will appear on your new Social Security card, driver’s license, and bank accounts. The marriage license is the legal basis for name changes, so accuracy is critical.

Bring Extra Copies of Documents

Always bring two copies of every document—your ID, divorce decree, death certificate. Staff may need to retain a copy for their records, and having extras saves time and prevents delays.

Know the Ceremony Location Rules

If you’re planning a beach wedding in Long Beach, be aware that some locations require permits. For example, weddings on the Long Beach Boardwalk or at the Queen Mary require special event permits from the City of Long Beach. Contact the City’s Special Events Office well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Keep Your License Safe

Once you receive your license, treat it like cash. It’s a legal document with no backup. Store it in a secure, waterproof envelope. Avoid leaving it in a car, purse, or backpack. Consider giving it to your officiant the day before the ceremony to reduce the risk of loss.

Confirm Officiant Availability and Requirements

Don’t assume your chosen officiant is authorized. Verify their credentials with the County Clerk’s Office. Some clergy members may not be registered with the state. If you’re hiring a professional officiant, ask for proof of their registration or certification.

Consider a Confidential License for Privacy

If you’re a celebrity, public figure, or simply value privacy, a confidential license is a smart choice. It prevents your marriage record from being searchable by the public or media. This can be especially important for high-profile individuals or those in sensitive professions.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Request Your Certificate

If you need your marriage certificate for a name change, visa application, or insurance update, allow at least 6–8 weeks for processing. Rush services are not available. Plan your timeline so you receive the certificate before your next legal deadline.

Tools and Resources

Official Los Angeles County Clerk Website

https://www.lacounty.gov/dept/clk – The primary source for all marriage license information, including forms, fees, appointment scheduling, and office locations. Always refer to this site for the most current details.

Marriage License Application Form (Online)

The County Clerk offers a pre-filling tool that allows you to complete your application online before your appointment. This reduces in-office wait time and minimizes errors. Access it under “Marriage License Application” on the Clerk’s website.

One-Time Deputy Commissioner Application

If you want a friend or family member to officiate, download and submit the form at least 72 hours before your ceremony: https://www.lacounty.gov/dept/clk/marriage/one-time-deputy-commissioner/

Long Beach City Special Events Permit Portal

For outdoor ceremonies in public parks or on the beach: https://www.longbeach.gov/389/Special-Events-Permits

California Department of Public Health – Vital Records

For ordering certified copies of your marriage certificate after it’s recorded: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Vital-Records.aspx

Marriage License Tracker Tool (Third-Party)

Some couples use third-party tools like “WeddingTrackr” or “MarriageLicenseTracker.com” to monitor the status of their license and certificate. While not official, these tools can help remind you of deadlines and next steps.

Local Marriage Officiant Directory

The County Clerk maintains a public list of registered officiants. You can search by name, religion, or location. This ensures your chosen officiant is legally authorized to perform your ceremony.

Free Name Change Guide (California)

After marriage, changing your name involves several agencies. The California Department of Motor Vehicles and Social Security Administration offer free step-by-step guides on their websites. Bookmark these resources for when you’re ready to update your records.

Real Examples

Example 1: Local Couple Planning a Beach Wedding

Sarah and Marcus, both residents of Long Beach, planned their wedding for June 15 at El Dorado Beach. They scheduled their marriage license appointment for April 10 to allow ample time for permits and planning. They chose a public license because Sarah intended to change her last name and needed the record for her DMV and bank updates. They applied for a one-time deputy commissioner for Marcus’s best friend, who was ordained online. They submitted the application 10 days before the wedding, were sworn in on June 5, and had their ceremony at sunset with 40 guests. The officiant returned the license on June 18. Sarah received her certified marriage certificate by July 20 and updated her driver’s license by August 1.

Example 2: Out-of-State Couple Choosing Confidential License

Jamal and Elena, from Seattle, wanted to get married in Long Beach but valued privacy. They were cohabiting and applied for a confidential license at the Long Beach office on May 1. They chose a private ceremony at a downtown hotel with only two witnesses. The license was returned promptly, and their marriage was recorded on June 3. Because they chose the confidential license, no public record exists of their marriage. They obtained certified copies directly from the County Clerk for their immigration paperwork and tax filings. They appreciated that their personal details were not accessible to strangers.

Example 3: Remarried Couple with Complex Documentation

After her divorce was finalized in Nevada in 2022, Lisa needed to remarry in Long Beach. She had a certified copy of her divorce decree but noticed her last name on the decree was slightly different from her current ID. She contacted the County Clerk’s office beforehand and was advised to bring a notarized affidavit explaining the name variation. She also brought her original birth certificate as backup. Her appointment went smoothly, and she received her license without delay. Her new husband, a U.S. citizen, used the license to begin his green card application process.

Example 4: International Couple with Foreign Documents

Yuki from Japan and Daniel from Canada wanted to marry in Long Beach. Yuki presented her Japanese passport with a valid U.S. visa and an official English translation of her birth certificate, notarized by the Japanese Consulate. Daniel presented his Canadian passport and a certified copy of his divorce decree from Ontario. The clerk accepted their documents after verifying the translations were certified. They obtained a public license and had their ceremony at the Long Beach Pier. Their marriage certificate was later used by Yuki to apply for a spousal visa.

FAQs

Can I get a marriage license in Long Beach if I don’t live in California?

Yes. California does not require residency for marriage licenses. Couples from any state or country can apply in Long Beach as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.

Do I need a blood test to get a marriage license in California?

No. California eliminated the blood test requirement in 1995. No medical exams or tests are required.

How long is a marriage license valid in Long Beach?

A marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. If you don’t get married within that time, the license expires and you must reapply and pay again.

Can I get married the same day I get my license?

Yes. California has no waiting period. You can apply for your license in the morning and have your ceremony that same afternoon.

What if I lose my marriage license?

If the license is lost before the ceremony, you must return to the County Clerk’s Office and apply for a replacement. A new fee will be charged. If lost after the ceremony but before it’s recorded, contact the Clerk’s Office immediately—they may be able to help you locate the officiant’s copy.

Can I use a marriage license from another county in Long Beach?

No. Marriage licenses are only valid in the county where they were issued. If you received a license in San Diego, you cannot use it for a ceremony in Long Beach. You must obtain a new license in Los Angeles County.

Can I change my name on my marriage license?

You can indicate your desired name change on the application form. The license will reflect your new name if you’re changing it. However, the license itself is not your legal name change document—you must use the certified marriage certificate to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and other records.

Is a marriage license the same as a marriage certificate?

No. A marriage license is the document you apply for before the wedding. A marriage certificate is the official record issued after the wedding is performed and recorded. The license authorizes the marriage; the certificate proves it happened.

Can I get married without witnesses?

Yes. California law does not require witnesses for either public or confidential marriage licenses. However, the officiant must sign the license, and two witnesses are required if the officiant is a one-time deputy commissioner.

What if one of us is in the military and deployed?

If one party cannot be present, you cannot obtain a marriage license. Both parties must appear in person. However, the military may provide alternative options through a military chaplain or legal officer for ceremonies conducted overseas.

Can I get a marriage license if I’m undocumented?

Yes. Immigration status does not affect eligibility for a marriage license in California. You only need to present acceptable photo ID, such as a foreign passport with a valid visa.

Can I have a religious ceremony without a marriage license?

You can have a religious blessing or commitment ceremony without a license, but it will not be legally recognized. To be legally married, you must obtain and use a marriage license.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in Long Beach is a simple, well-structured process when approached with preparation and awareness. From confirming eligibility and gathering documents to scheduling your appointment and selecting the right type of license, each step plays a vital role in ensuring your marriage is legally recognized. Whether you’re a local resident, an out-of-state visitor, or an international couple, California’s laws are designed to be inclusive and accessible.

By following this guide, you’ve gained more than just procedural knowledge—you’ve secured the legal foundation for your future together. Remember to plan ahead, double-check your documents, and choose the license type that best fits your needs. The 90-day window gives you flexibility, but don’t delay the final steps. Return your signed license promptly, and request your certified certificate early to avoid disruptions in life-changing processes like name changes, immigration, or estate planning.

Marriage is more than a ceremony—it’s a legal partnership with lifelong implications. Getting your marriage license right in Long Beach is the first, essential step in building that future with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.