Getting married is one of the most important moments in a couple's life. And before tying the knot, it's essential to obtain a marriage license. Monterey County, located in California, has some requirements and procedures that couples should be aware of before applying for a marriage license. In this article, we'll provide you with all the information you need to know about the Monterey County marriage license application process.
What is a Marriage License?
A marriage license is a document that legalizes a couple's union. It is a vital record that proves the existence of a marriage. Without a marriage license, a marriage is not considered legal by law. Therefore, obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the wedding planning process.
Who Can Apply for a Marriage License in Monterey County?
In Monterey County, any couple that intends to get married can apply for a marriage license. However, there are some requirements that both parties must meet before applying. Firstly, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is younger than 18, they need to obtain a court order from a judge in California to get married.
Secondly, both parties must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID. If either party is not a U.S. citizen, they need to provide a valid passport or a certified copy of their birth certificate.
How to Apply for a Marriage License in Monterey County?
To apply for a marriage license in Monterey County, both parties must appear in person at the Clerk-Recorder's Office located at 168 W. Alisal St., 1st Floor, Salinas, CA 93901. The office is open from Monday to Friday, from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm.
When appearing in person, both parties must bring their government-issued photo ID and pay a fee of $85.00. The fee can be paid by cash, check, or credit card. It is advised to make an appointment before visiting the office to reduce waiting time.
What is the Waiting Period for a Marriage License in Monterey County?
After applying for a marriage license in Monterey County, there is a mandatory waiting period of three days before the license becomes valid. Therefore, couples should plan accordingly and apply for a marriage license at least three days before their wedding date.
If either party cannot appear in person to apply for the marriage license, they can obtain a confidential marriage license. A confidential marriage license does not require witnesses or a waiting period. However, it is only available to couples who are already living together and plan to continue living together after getting married.
What Documents are Required to Obtain a Marriage License in Monterey County?
When applying for a marriage license in Monterey County, both parties need to provide their government-issued photo ID and pay the application fee. If either party has been married before, they need to provide a certified copy of their divorce decree or death certificate of their former spouse.
If either party is not a U.S. citizen, they need to provide a valid passport or a certified copy of their birth certificate. If the birth certificate is not in English, it needs to be translated by a certified translator.
What Happens After Obtaining a Marriage License in Monterey County?
After obtaining a marriage license in Monterey County, the couple can get married anywhere within the state of California. The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. After the wedding ceremony, the officiant needs to sign the license and return it to the Clerk-Recorder's Office within ten days.
Once the license is recorded, the couple can obtain a certified copy of their marriage certificate from the Clerk-Recorder's Office. The certificate can be used as legal proof of marriage and is required for various purposes, such as changing names, applying for spousal benefits, or filing taxes jointly.
Conclusion
Getting married is an exciting and significant event in a couple's life. However, it's essential to obtain a marriage license before saying "I do." In Monterey County, the application process is straightforward, but there are some requirements and procedures that couples need to be aware of.
If you're planning to get married in Monterey County, make sure to follow the steps outlined in this article to obtain a marriage license successfully. Remember to plan ahead and apply for the license at least three days before your wedding date. With a valid marriage license, you can start your new life together legally.