Skip to main content

Get married in the state of California

Steps to get married in the state of California

  1. Choose your married name, if you plan to change your name

    Learn how to choose your married name

    Select your new name before applying for a marriage license.

  2. Apply for a marriage license from the Santa Clara County Clerk-Recorder's Office

    To apply for a marriage license from Santa Clara County, please see Apply for a marriage license page.

  3. Give the marriage license to the person who will perform your marriage ceremony

    Prior to your marriage ceremony, give the marriage license to the wedding official. After the ceremony, the wedding official and at least one witness sign the license.

  4. Return the signed license to the Clerk-Recorder's Office

    Following the ceremony, your completed marriage license should be returned to the Clerk-Recorder's Office within 10 business days. 

    Santa Clara Clerk-Recorder's Office​
    110 West Tasman Drive, First Floor
    San Jose, CA  95134

  5. Purchase a marriage certificate for your personal records

    When the Clerk-Recorder's Office receives your license and records, the license becomes a marriage certificate. Use your marriage certificate as proof of your marriage.