Ringing Those Wedding Bells? Your Guide to Getting Hitched in Seattle (Without Any Hitches)
Congratulations, lovebirds! You've decided to tie the knot in the Emerald City. Now, before you get swept away in a whirlwind of venue hunting and cake tastings (though, those are important too!), there's a little administrative hurdle to jump over: the marriage license. Fear not, this guide will have you saying "I do" to wedded bliss in no time, with a few laughs along the way.
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| How To Get A Marriage License In Seattle |
Step 1: Prove You're Not a Pirate (or Already Married!)
Alright, alright, probably not a pirate. But you will need to show some valid photo ID, like a driver's license or passport, to prove you are who you say you are and, more importantly, available to get married. No sneaking in a secret spouse, mateys!
Pro Tip: Unearthing that dusty passport from your closet? Make sure it's not expired, or you'll be waiting longer than for your soulmate.
Step 2: It's a Two-Person Tango (or Waltz, if that's Your Jam)
This may come as a shock, but you can't exactly get married alone (unless you're into elaborate self-vow renewals, which, hey, you do you). Your partner-in-crime (or soon-to-be spouse) needs to be there with you to apply for the license. Bonus points if you can both remember each other's middle names for the application.
Subheading: But What if My Fiance is Out of Town?
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
Technology to the rescue! Washington allows you to complete most of the application online beforehand. Just make sure your partner has access to the interwebs and a valid form of ID for the finalization process.
Step 3: The All-Important Fee
Every good love story has a price tag, and in this case, it's a very reasonable $69. You can pay with cash, check, money order, or debit/credit card. Just avoid that crumpled wad of singles from the bottom of your purse. This is a momentous occasion, after all!
Step 4: The Waiting Game (Don't Panic!)
Once you've filled out the application and said your goodbyes to the lovely folks at the King County Recorder's Office, there's a mandatory three-day waiting period. Think of it as a built-in pre-wedding jitters buffer. You can use this time to write your vows, pick out a killer wedding playlist, or, you know, reminisce about why you love this crazy person you're about to spend forever with.
Step 5: Time to Celebrate (You're Officially Licensed to Wed!)
After three long days (or a relaxing three days, depending on your perspective), you can pick up your marriage license. Congratulations, you're now officially licensed to wed in the beautiful city of Seattle! Cue the confetti and happy tears!
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Here's a friendly reminder: Don't lose that license! You'll need it for your officiant to make your union official.
Hitched-FAQ
How to apply for a marriage license online in Seattle?
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Head to the King County Recorder's Office website [King County Marriage License] and get started!
How long does it take to get a marriage license in Seattle?
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
The application process is pretty quick, but there's a mandatory three-day waiting period after you apply.
Can one person apply for a marriage license in Seattle on behalf of the couple?
Nope, both parties need to be present with valid ID to finalize the application.
How much does a marriage license cost in Seattle?
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
A marriage license in Seattle costs $69.
Where do I go to pick up my marriage license in Seattle?
You can pick it up at the King County Recorder's Office (201 S. Jackson St., Ste. 204, Seattle, WA 98104).
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