Washington Marriage License Information -- How to Get Married in Washington

If you've just set a date for your wedding, this can be an exciting time for the two of you! Don't let the marriage license laws of Washington state put a dent in your wedding plans.

Here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a Washington state marriage license.

We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your wedding date. Requirements may vary as each county in Washington could have their own requirements.

Congratulations and much happiness as you begin your lifetime journey together!

Some counties may require a picture id. You should know your Social Security numbers. You do not have to be a resident of Washington.

A divorce must be final and filed before applicants can apply for a license.

No.

Washington state has a three-day waiting period.

The cost of applying for a marriage license in Washington state varies from county to county. Some counties charge approximately $42 while others charge $62 and up. Many counties will not accept checks or credit cards.

No. However, as of July 22, 2007, gays, lesbians and unmarried seniors in domestic partnerships have rights that include hospital visitation, inheriting property without a will, emergency health care, funeral arrangements, adoption, child custody, community property, and disposition of remains. Washington's "everything-but-marriage" law was approved by Washington state voters in November 2009.

To qualify for these rights, couples will have to register with the Office of the Secretary of State.

Information about State Registered Domestic Partnerships and Domestic Partnership Registration Forms
Review the Law

No. However, if both of you cannot apply for your marriage license application at the same time, you may be able to apply through an Absentee Marriage Application. Contact the county offices where you plan on getting married for more information about this option.

No.

No.

Under 18:

Applicants between 17 and 18 years of age need to have a parent (legal custodian) present with them to provide their consent. If you are under 17 years old, you will need to have the age requirement waived by a superior court judge of the county in which one of the parties resides. Proof of age such as a driver's license or birth certificate is also required along with the written permission of the family court. Emancipated minors must present court emancipation papers specifically allowing the minor to marry.

Officiants:

Any ordained or licensed clergymen, and justices of the peace.

Witnesses:

You need to have two witnesses at your marriage ceremony.

Miscellaneous:

A Washington state marriage license is valid for 60 days and it is valid only in the state of Washington. You can not use the marriage license to get married in another state.

Copy of Certificate of Marriage:

Washington Dept. of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 9709
Olympia, WA
(360) 236-4300 Info

PLEASE NOTE:

Please note that we make every effort to offer you common-sense marriage advice and helpful information about marriage on this website, but we are not attorneys and the articles on the site are not to be construed as legal advice.

The information in this article was accurate when it was published. It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.

The marriage site has a world-wide audience and marriage laws and regulations vary from state to state and country to country. When in doubt, seek legal counsel.

Please notify us of any oversights or errors.