Did Covid-19 affect your wedding plans? Here’s all you need to know about getting married online in California during Covid-19.
To adhere to the necessary social-distancing safety measures in our battle against the Covid-19 pandemic, Governor Newsom allows you to obtain a marriage license and conduct a ceremony virtually through Executive Order N-58-20.
How to Get Married in California
To get married in California, both partners must not be already married to other individuals. Before a marriage ceremony, the spouses must obtain a marriage license with the option of either a public marriage license or a confidential marriage license.
Requirements to Get a Marriage License Online:
- Both partners must physically reside in the State of California
- Both partners must be at least 18 years of age
- Both partners must be present virtually
- Both partners must present valid identification virtually
- Access to reliable, high-speed internet access
- Access to MS Teams software
After meeting the requirements, the county clerk will send a marriage license via email, which partners should purchase prior to solemnizing a marriage ceremony.
Related: How to Get Married in California: The Basics
What Does a Marriage License Application Entail in California?
A marriage license application is the first step to obtaining a marriage license in California. The application is simple and requires you and your spouse to provide:
- Your legal name
- Your place and date of birth
- The legal name, place, and date of birth of both sets of parents
- The last name you or your spouse will take after marriage
- If applicable, proof of any previous divorce(s) and divorce date(s)
Related: How to Get a Marriage License in California
The Necessary Steps to Proceed with an Online Video Marriage Service in California:
- Review both the State of California Marriage Requirements and Name Equality Act of 2007
- Use the County Clerk Services’ online appointment system to make an appointment and specify whether you want to include a marriage ceremony along with the video marriage license.
- Complete the online marriage application (marriage license application and an affidavit, which need to be returned at least three days before the appointment).
- After the review and approval of the required documents, a Deputy County clerk is assigned to your marriage service.
- An MS Teams meeting will be coordinated with a link sent to you prior to the service.
FAQs About Getting Married Online in California During COVID-19
Does the video marriage license and marriage ceremony take place virtually on the same day?
Yes, if an appointment is made for both the video marriage license and a marriage ceremony, both will take place on the same video conference call.
Who can attend my virtual marriage service in California?
Virtual marriage service will be limited to the parties engaged to be married, the individual solemnizing the marriage, and a maximum of two witnesses.
How much does a marriage license cost in California?
Depending on the county, the price of a California marriage license varies, ranging from $60-$110.
Related: Virtual Marriage License in California: The Basics
Do you need to obtain your marriage license in the county in which you live?
No. If you have resided in California for the past six months or more, you must obtain your marriage license in California but not necessarily in your county of residence.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one would like to know more about getting married online in California during COVID-19, get your free consultation with one of our family law attorneys today.