Intro
Get ready to tie the knot in the City by the Bay! Learn the 5 essential steps to obtain a marriage license in San Francisco. Discover the requirements, application process, and necessary documents to make your special day a reality. From fees to waiting periods, weve got you covered for a seamless and stress-free experience.
Getting married in San Francisco, one of the most romantic cities in the world, is a dream come true for many couples. However, before you can say "I do" and start your new life together, you'll need to obtain a marriage license. In this article, we'll guide you through the 5 steps to get a marriage license in San Francisco, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
San Francisco is a popular destination for weddings, with its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, beautiful parks, and vibrant neighborhoods. But before you can start planning your special day, you'll need to take care of the necessary paperwork. With this guide, you'll be well on your way to getting your marriage license and starting your new life together.
From the requirements to the application process, we'll cover everything you need to know to get a marriage license in San Francisco.
Step 1: Meet the Requirements

To get a marriage license in San Francisco, you'll need to meet certain requirements. Both you and your partner must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver's license or passport)
- Provide your social security number (if applicable)
- Be unmarried and not currently in a domestic partnership
- Not be closely related by blood or marriage
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documents
Before you can apply for a marriage license, you'll need to gather the necessary documents. These include:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver's license or passport)
- Birth certificate (if you were born in the United States)
- Divorce or annulment documents (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if your previous spouse has passed away)
It's essential to make sure you have all the necessary documents before applying for a marriage license, as this will help prevent any delays in the process.
Step 3: Apply for the Marriage License
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply for a marriage license at the San Francisco County Clerk's Office. You can find the office at:
San Francisco County Clerk's Office City Hall, Room 168 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place San Francisco, CA 94102
You can apply for a marriage license online or in person. If you apply online, you'll need to print out the application and bring it with you to the clerk's office. If you apply in person, you'll need to fill out the application at the office.
Step 4: Wait for the License to be Issued
After you've applied for the marriage license, you'll need to wait for it to be issued. This typically takes 24 hours, but it may take longer if there are any issues with your application.
Once the license is issued, you can pick it up at the clerk's office or have it mailed to you. Make sure to review the license carefully to ensure all the information is correct.
Step 5: Get Married!
Finally, it's time to get married! With your marriage license in hand, you can have your ceremony performed by an authorized officiant. This can be a judge, minister, or other authorized person.
After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license and return it to the clerk's office. Once the license is filed, you'll be officially married!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a marriage license valid in San Francisco?
+A marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date it's issued.
Can I get a marriage license online?
+Yes, you can apply for a marriage license online, but you'll need to print out the application and bring it with you to the clerk's office.
Do I need to have a blood test to get a marriage license in San Francisco?
+No, you don't need to have a blood test to get a marriage license in San Francisco.
Getting a marriage license in San Francisco is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some planning and preparation. By following these 5 steps, you'll be well on your way to getting your marriage license and starting your new life together.
We hope this article has been helpful in guiding you through the process of getting a marriage license in San Francisco. If you have any further questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to ask.
Share Your Thoughts
Have you recently gotten married in San Francisco or are you planning to tie the knot soon? Share your experiences or ask any questions you may have in the comments below!