You will need to obtain a Marriage License in order to marry within the limits of the State of California.
There are two types of Marriage Licenses available: a Standard or a Confidential Marriage License. The difference between these is that the Standard Marriage License is a matter of public record. This means that anyone may ask the county for information regarding your marriage license. The Confidential Marriage License remains confidential. The county will not give any information out about your license.
Requirements for All Licenses
Obtained at any County Clerk office
Both Bride and Groom must be present
ID required, but no blood test required
Provide divorce documents if divorced within the last 90 days
Valid for 90 days from issue date
Must know parent’s place of birth
Under 18 needs court approval
Officiant must file license within 30 days
Standard Marriage License Details
Can marry in any county
License becomes public record
Provides a ceremonial paper license that you may keep
Requires witnesses signatures
Additional certified copies are easily obtained
Confidential Marriage License
Must marry in county where issued
Must be living together
License is kept confidential
No ceremonial license furnished
No witnesses required to sign
Additional certified copies are difficult to obtain (in person only)
Getting Your Marriage License
A marriage license is generally obtained at the County Clerks office. However, some wedding Officiants have been vested with authority to issue a marriage license to you directly.
Santa Barbara County
The 3 County Clerk Offices in Santa Barbara County are open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 (closed holidays). The cost is $77.00 for a Standard License or $79.00 for a Confidential License. Additional information and an application form are online at : www.CountyofSB.org.
Santa Barbara
1100 Anacapa St.
805/568-2250
Santa Maria
(by appointment only)
511 E. Lakeside Pkwy
805/346-8370
Lompoc
(by appointment only)
401 E. Cypress St. Rm. 102
805/737-7705
When getting married away from home it is best to get a Standard License before you leave. Most brides and grooms get married on a weekend and are unable to get a license, so please check with your local County Clerks office for additional license information.
