So You Wanna Tie the Knot in San Diego, Eh? Let's Get You Licensed!
Congratulations! You've found your lobster, your soulmate, your person to split burritos with for the rest of your life (or at least until the next taco stand opens). But before you can say "I do" and hit the dance floor (or the nearest beach bonfire), there's a little administrative hurdle to jump: the marriage license. Fear not, lovebirds, for obtaining a marriage license in San Diego is easier than finding decent fish tacos at 2 am (although, that's a pretty low bar).
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| How To Get A Marriage License San Diego |
Appointment Ahoy! You Can't Just Walk In (Unless You're a Mermaid)
While showing up at the County Clerk's office with bells on your toes might sound romantic, it's a recipe for disappointment. Appointments are required to get your marriage license, so grab your phone and schedule one online. Think of it as your first official act of married planning: teamwork!
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The Docu-Drama: What to Bring to Your Appointment
Here's what you'll need to prove you're the real deal and not just some random strangers with a shared love of carne asada fries:
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- Valid government-issued photo ID (think driver's license or passport) for both of you - No ID, no dice (although a convincing sweater vest and fake mustache might do in a pinch).
- Completed marriage license application: You can find this online and fill it out beforehand. Bonus points for using fancy calligraphy pens.
- Social Security numbers (optional, but helpful)
- Proof of residency (if you're not San Diego locals) - Unless you're a mermaid and can prove Atlantis residency, you might need some documentation like a utility bill.
- Payment for the license fee: They accept cash, check, and credit cards, so no need to barter with seashells.
I Divorced You Yesterday, Can We Still Get Hitched Today?
Let's be honest, things happen. If either of you has been divorced in the last 90 days, you'll need to bring your final divorce decree. The good news? No blood tests are required in San Diego County, so you can skip that whole dramatic fainting scene from rom-coms.
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Witness, This is Your Moment to Shine (Just Not Too Brightly)
While your witnesses don't need to be present at your appointment, you will need them for the actual ceremony. Choose wisely – someone who can a) tell the difference between "I do" and "dude, I need another beer," and b) remembers to bring a pen.
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How Long is this License Valid, Like a Bag of Churros?
Here's the best part: your marriage license is good for 90 days from the date it's issued. That's plenty of time to plan the wedding of your dreams (or elope to Vegas in a Elvis impersonator-themed ceremony, no judgment).
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions (for the Forgetful Lovebirds)
Got a question? We've got the answer (in 5 questions or less, because attention spans are short these days).
- How much does a marriage license cost? It's a steal! The fee is around $61.
- How long does the appointment take? Plan on 30 minutes to an hour.
- Can we get married outside of San Diego County with a San Diego license? Nope, the license is only valid in San Diego County.
- What happens after the ceremony? Get busy livin'! But also, return the signed license to the County Clerk's office within 60 days of your wedding.
- What if we get cold feet and don't get married? The license fee is non-refundable, but hey, at least you have a fun story to tell at future singles mixers.
There you have it, folks! Getting a marriage license in San Diego is a breeze. Now go forth, conquer that appointment, and get ready to celebrate your love (with tacos, obviously).
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