Lost your marriage certificate? Don't panic, it happens to the best of us!
Maybe you misplaced it during the epic decluttering session (we've all been there), or perhaps it became an accidental napkin during a particularly enthusiastic salsa night. Whatever the reason, fear not! Retrieving a copy of your California marriage certificate is a breeze, easier than that time you aced a parallel parking job on the first try (or maybe that's just me).
So you need a copy of your California marriage certificate, huh?
Here's the lowdown on how to get your hands on that official piece of paper (or digitally, if you prefer).
1. Digging into Details: Authorized vs. Informational Copies
There are two types of marriage certificate copies in California: authorized and informational.
-
Authorized copies: This is the official version, like the Beyoncé to the informational copy's Destiny's Child. It can be used for identity purposes, like proving you're married to win a bet with your grandma (not recommended, but hey, to each their own). But you can only get this if you're one of the people who got married, or someone close like a parent or child (with some legal proof).
-
Informational copies: This is basically a tell-all autobiography of your marriage...except it only mentions the date and location. Anyone can request this, no questions asked. Great for if you need to prove your marital bliss to a skeptical friend or, you know, immigration services.
Now that you know the types, let's get your copy!
There are three main ways to snag your marriage certificate copy in California:
-
In-person at the County Recorder's Office: This is the most traditional route. Think Indiana Jones and the dusty archives, except with less snakes (hopefully). Find your local County Recorder's Office https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/pages/county-registrars-and-recorders.aspx and head over with a valid ID and some patience.
-
By mail: Feeling like a snail? You can mail in a completed application form. Get the form online from the California Department of Public Health https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Marriage-License-Information.aspx and be sure to include a photocopy of your ID and a check for the processing fee.
-
Online (drumroll please!) Yes, you can skip the salsa-induced napkin mishaps altogether and get a digital copy online. Los Angeles County and some other counties offer this option, but check with your local recorder's office first https://marriage.lavote.net/.
Important Note: Processing times can vary depending on the method you choose, so plan accordingly.
There you have it! With a little bit of effort, you'll have your marriage certificate back in your hands (or digitally stored) before you can say "I do" again (hopefully not to replacing lost paperwork!).
