Marriage License in San Diego County, California
Cost, office and documents to get a marriage license in San Diego County, with the official link and the date we reviewed it.
Old Town, San DiegoSummary: San Diego County, CA
Official source Reviewed Nov 4, 2026 · Official source, with details that may vary.
- Cost
- Public license: $129. Confidential license: $144. Pay by cash, check, money order or card (card payments have a $2.50 surcharge). Non-refundable.
- Waiting period
- We couldn't confirm this at the official source. Ask the office.
- Validity
- 90 days from issuance, with no extension; the ceremony must take place in California.
- Witnesses
- Public license: at least 1 witness at the ceremony (maximum 2 sign); no minimum age, but they must understand they are witnessing a wedding and sign on their own. Confidential license: no witnesses required. If the ceremony is performed by the county, they provide a witness for $58.
Where to apply
- Office: San Diego Recorder/County Clerk. Main office: County Administration Center, 1600 Pacific Highway, Suite 213, San Diego, CA 92101 (Mon–Fri 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.). Also in Santee, Chula Vista and San Marcos.
Appointments open up to 7 weeks ahead and go fast: book yours early. The county's civil ceremony can be held in Spanish.
California rules (apply statewide)
- Waiting period
- We couldn't confirm this at the official source. Ask the office.
- Validity
- 90 days from issuance.
- Witnesses
- Public license: at least 1 witness and at most 2 witness signatures (no minimum age, but they must understand what they are witnessing). Confidential license: no witnesses.
How much is a marriage license in San Diego County?
Public license: $129. Confidential license: $144. Pay by cash, check, money order or card (card payments have a $2.50 surcharge). Non-refundable.
Fees change: confirm the amount on the official website before you go.
Where to get the license and how the process works
By appointment only (they open up to 7 weeks ahead and fill quickly). First you book the appointment, then fill out the application online (or bring the printed one; there is a Spanish version). Both go together.
Office: San Diego Recorder/County Clerk. Main office: County Administration Center, 1600 Pacific Highway, Suite 213, San Diego, CA 92101 (Mon–Fri 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.). Also in Santee, Chula Vista and San Marcos.
What to bring
Both with current government-issued photo ID. Both must be 18 or older and unmarried when the license is issued. If a divorce became final in the last 90 days, a copy of the final decree. There is no residency requirement.
Waiting period, validity and witnesses
- Waiting period: We couldn't confirm this at the official source. Ask the office.
- Validity: 90 days from issuance, with no extension; the ceremony must take place in California.
- Witnesses: Public license: at least 1 witness at the ceremony (maximum 2 sign); no minimum age, but they must understand they are witnessing a wedding and sign on their own. Confidential license: no witnesses required. If the ceremony is performed by the county, they provide a witness for $58.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this license somewhere else in California?
The wedding must take place in California, in any county; the license is recorded in the county where it was purchased.
What is the minimum age to marry in California?
18. Under 18: written consent from at least one parent or guardian and permission from a California Superior Court judge (emancipated minors are not exempt). The confidential license is only for people over 18 who already live together as a couple.
What ID do you need in California?
Current photo ID with date of birth and issue and expiration dates (state ID, driver's license, passport, military ID). Some counties ask for a birth certificate.
Who can officiate the wedding in California?
Priests, ministers or rabbis of any denomination; judges and commissioners (active or retired); certain legislators and officials; county supervisors, city clerks or mayors in office (Family Code 400 and 400.1). "Deputy for a day" commissioner where the county offers it.
Does AltarPlan issue the license?
No. AltarPlan is not a government office and does not issue licenses. General information, not legal advice: confirm with the county office.
Sources and review date
If you spot an error, write to us and we'll look into it.
AltarPlan is not a government office and does not issue licenses. General information, not legal advice. Confirm with the county office.