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Certified California marriage certificates are issued by the County Recorder or County Clerk in the county where the marriage license was issued. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) also issues copies by mail, though county offices are typically faster. Two types of certified copies exist: Authorized Copy (valid for legal ID uses like passports and benefits) and Informational Copy (not valid for establishing identity).
For Authorized requests by mail or online, you'll need a notarized Sworn Statement (form VS 24A). The statewide fee is typically $17 per certified marriage certificate—always verify current pricing on the CDPH fees page. County offices often fulfill requests same day or within 1–3 weeks, while CDPH mail processing commonly takes several weeks.
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A certified California marriage certificate is an official document issued by the County Recorder or CDPH that confirms a marriage was legally performed in California. It includes names, date and place of marriage, and the official seal and signature of the issuing authority.
Typical uses include name changes after marriage, passport applications, updating benefits with Social Security or employers, and legal proceedings. Some institutions require only an Informational Copy, while others require an Authorized Copy for legal identity verification.
Authorized Copy
Valid for legal ID uses (passport, name change, benefits). Requires notarized Sworn Statement (VS 24A) for mail/online requests.
Informational Copy
Not valid for legal ID purposes. Typically used for genealogy, personal records, or research. Notarization not required.
Most people can order a California marriage certificate if they have a legitimate interest in the record.
Immediate family may include:
Quick Self-Check:
Contact the County Recorder or County Clerk in the county where the marriage license was issued. Most offer in-person, mail, and online ordering.
The California Department of Public Health can issue copies by mail for any California marriage. Processing is slower but works for out-of-state requesters.
Many California counties use VitalChek for online ordering. Convenient for remote requesters; service fees apply.
| Route | Best For | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| County In-Person | Urgent needs | Same day | Bring ID & payment |
| County Mail | Standard requests | 1–3 weeks | Include notarized VS 24A if Authorized |
| VitalChek Online | Remote requesters | 3–5 days | Service fee applies |
| CDPH Mail | Out-of-state, all counties | Several weeks | Most economical |
$17
per certified copy (verify on CDPH fees page)
County In-Person: Same day
County Mail: 1–3 weeks
VitalChek: 3–5 days
CDPH Mail: Several weeks
If your marriage record has errors (name spelling, date), you may need to file a Petition for Correction with the county clerk. Contact your county recorder for guidance.
Residents outside the U.S. can still request California marriage certificates via CDPH or county mail. Processing times may be longer due to international mail delays.
If your legal name differs from the marriage certificate, provide proof of the name change (court order, subsequent marriage certificate, etc.) with your request.
Photocopies of certified marriage certificates are not accepted for most legal uses. Always order certified copies from the official agency. Certified copies have an official seal and the issuer's signature.
If you need your marriage certificate for international use (visa, work permit, etc.), contact the California Secretary of State for apostille services. Fee: $20 per document; $6 special handling for counter service. Original certified documents only.
| County | How to Order | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | LA RR/CC Marriage Records | Typical $17 fee; in-person/mail/online |
| Orange County | OC Clerk-Recorder | Verify ID rules and office hours |
| San Diego | County Clerk-Recorder Office | Verify fees & processing times |
| Contact your county recorder for complete, current information. Fees and processes vary. | ||
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Methodology
This guide summarizes official guidance from the California Department of Public Health and California Secretary of State, linked throughout the page.
Disclaimer
This is general informational content, not legal advice. For legal questions, consult a qualified attorney.