California Marriage Records

To begin, add a marriage record or view a list of locations and resources for California marriage records.

Guide to Requesting California Marriage Records

The State of California issues two types of marriage records: public and confidential. Marriage certificates marked “Confidential” are only available through the County Clerk’s Office. All other public California marriage records are available through the Vital Records Office.

Obtaining a California Marriage Document

While the California Department of Public Health Office of Vital Records maintains records of marriage certificates, they are experiencing a delay of up to six months for marriage document requests. You may, however, contact a County Recorder’s Office directly. All requests for marriage records must be via mail. If you are requesting a “Confidential” marriage record, you must directly contact the County Clerk’s Office in the county the marriage took place.

New Laws About California Marriage Records

As of January 1, 2010, California may issue certified copies of marriage records either as an authorized copy for identification purposes to the individuals named on the record, or an informational copy to all other requestors.