Los Angeles Marriage license

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September 7, 2021

Updated July 1, 2025

How To Obtain a Los Angeles Marriage License

You can apply for a Los Angeles marriage license online at lavote.net. The Los Angeles Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk offices are only providing virtual marriage licenses at this time. You can also have a virtual civil marriage ceremony through this office. However, there are no in-person options available for a marriage license or courthouse marriage ceremony in Los Angeles.


Learn about Christopher Todd Studios' Los Angeles wedding and elopement photography


In-person marriage services, including civil ceremony, are open at designated OC Courthouses. Get important information about OC Courthouse weddings today.


Los Angeles County marriage license requirements

  • There are no citizenship or residency requirements
  • You don't need a blood test to obtain a marriage license
  • Applicants must be over 18 years old
  • Both parties must show a valid ID, a driver's license, a passport, or an alien resident card must be presented as proof of age.
  • Identification issued by a government agency will also be accepted. 
  • All documents must be in English
  • Both parties must be present
A bride and groom are kissing in front of the Old Courthouse in Orange County

Top 5 Courthouses & City Halls for civil marriage ceremonies

California has beautiful Courthouses that perform marriage services from Santa Barbara to San Diego 

Find out which county clerks offices are providing in-person services and which ones are only virtual


Los Angeles City Hall

Only virtual online services

Currently only offering Virtual marriage services including virtual marriage licenses and virtual civil ceremonies. Book appointments up to two weeks in advance.

Beverly Hills Courthouse

Only virtual online services

Currently only offering Virtual marriage services including virtual marriage licenses and virtual civil ceremonies. Book appointments up to two weeks in advance.


Pasadena City Hall

Currently unavailable for marriage services.

Old Orange County Courthouse

Walk-ins and appointments available for in-person

This beautiful historic courthouse in Santa Ana is currently providing in-person marriage services. Including, marriage licenses and civil ceremonies. Appointments are recommended, walk-ins accepted.

Laguna Hills Civic Center

Walk-ins and appointments available for in-person

Civil wedding ceremonies and marriage licenses are available in-person. Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are available. 


Best courthouse for a civil ceremony in California

So what do you do if you want to get married at a courthouse in-person and don’t want to wait?

Los Angeles is only offering virtual marriage licenses and virtual civil marriage ceremonies. If you are having a difficult time getting marriage services in Los Angeles and want in-person services, head over to an Orange County Courthouse. Before you drive south there are a few things you need to know. For up to date information please call the  OC Clerk-Recorder Department Information Line (714) 834-2500


A bride and groom are kissing in front of a superior court at the Old Courthouse in Orange County

Los Angeles Elopement in Orange County

Which Orange County Courthouses are open for an in-person Civil Ceremony?

  • The historic Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana
  • Laguna Hills Civic Center 
  • Laguna Beach City Hall

These 3 options have different stipulations. Be sure to always check the websites for the most up-to-date information.

Learn about a civil ceremony at The Old Orange County Courthouse or Laguna Hills Civic Center wedding

A bride and groom are walking their dog down a sidewalk in front the Old Courthouse in Orange County

Appointments

Can I make an appointment for my Civil Ceremony?

Yes. An appointment can be made online along with a marriage license. This is highly recommended for an easier process. However, walk-in appointments are now allowed at the Old Orange County Courthouse and the Laguna Hills Civic Center for your marriage license and civil ceremony. 

Get all the details here for an Orange County civil marriage ceremony. 



For those looking to have a marriage ceremony performed, you must complete your marriage license application before visiting our offices at https://ocweddings.ocrecorder.com/#/

A bride and groom are standing on a balcony looking at each other.

Los Angeles Couple

Can I use my Los Angeles marriage license in another county in California?

Yes. County clerks issue these licenses, which can be used anywhere in the state. Additionally, this license requires at least one witness at the ceremony, and you must file the license in the county in which you first obtained it to be registered at the County Recorder's Office.


How long does a marriage license last in California?

A marriage license is only valid for 90 days from the issue date. 

A bride and groom are walking down a sidewalk holding hands at the Old Courthouse in Orange County.

For up-to-date information, visit Marriage License and Ceremonies

A bride and groom are kissing while holding beer glasses on Main Street in Santa Ana.

Bottom Line

Always check the location to see if your Los Angeles marriage license is valid in another county. When making an appointment at a City Hall be sure to check if you have to bring a marriage license or if they will issue one there.

Have A Specific Marriage License Question?

Just click below to schedule a quick chat

Elopement & Courthouse Wedding Articles

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Getting Married at an Orange County Courthouse: Everything You Need to Know

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Thinking about a courthouse wedding in Orange County? Learn how to get married at the Santa Ana or Laguna Hills courthouse, from licenses to ceremony tips and guest rules.
A bride and groom are getting married in the historic courtroom in Santa Ana.

How to Reserve the Historic Courtroom at the Old Orange County Courthouse for a Wedding

By Christopher Todd Griffiths • May 22, 2025
Step-by-step guide to booking the historic courtroom at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana for a memorable courthouse wedding. Includes tips, costs, and requirements.
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How to Plan a Small Wedding in Laguna Beach at Heisler Park

By Christopher Todd Griffiths • May 21, 2024
Planning a wedding at Heisler Park? Discover why this Laguna Beach gem is ideal for portraits, proposals, and romantic elopement photography.
Christopher Todd and Orange County Photographer in a blue shirt is holding a camera and smiling.

Meet Christopher Todd: Your Orange County Photographer

Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that. Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past 25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft.

Have A Specific Question?

Just click below to schedule a quick chat