How to Obtain Your Marriage License
Most states in the U.S. do not require you to be a resident of the state to obtain a marriage license in that state. However, USMarriageLaws.com is a good place to research local laws and requirements to ensure you understand the rules and requirements of the State, City, and County you wish to get married in. This will also inform you on what paperwork to bring when applying for your marriage license and the waiting period or license expirations.
NOTE: A marriage license issued in any state is valid throughout the country. Oftentimes, it is more convenient to obtain a marriage license from your home county and oblige the legal ceremony at your local Justice of the Peace.
To obtain a marriage license in Lake Tahoe, first confirm what state and county your ceremony venue is in since Lake Tahoe shares a border with California and Nevada.
California Marriage License
A California public license may be purchased in any county clerk office in California. You will have the option of a confidential marriage license or a public marriage license. A confidential license does not require witnesses, the public license requires at least one. The cost will vary by county. The license has a 90-day expiration. Both partners (bride & groom) must be present with proper photo identification at the time of license purchase. You must be 18 or older, present a photo ID (driver’s license, state ID military ID passport or other official identification. You will need to know specific information such as your parent’s names, places of birth, and your mother’s maiden name. The license is good for 90 days from the purchase. There is no blood test required and no waiting period. For second marriages, no divorce papers are needed if it has been final for over 90 days.
Here is the location and website to schedule your appointment:
South Lake Tahoe, (El Dorado County):
3368 Lake Tahoe Blvd, Suite 108 South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Open M-F 8-11:30 AND 1-4:30
530-573-3409
Cost is $100 plus $15.00 for each certified copy.
Nevada Marriage License
For a Nevada wedding, obtain your marriage license from a Nevada County Clerk’s Office before the ceremony. Only one witness is required. Both partners (bride & groom) must be present with proper photo identification at the time of license purchase. When obtaining your marriage license, you will need to know specific information such as your parent’s names, places of their birth, and your mothers’ maiden name. Here is the location and website to schedule your appointment:
Douglas County Administration Building
175 Highway 50
Stateline, NV 89449
(775) 586-7290
Open Monday – Friday: 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm
The cost is $85 plus $15 for each certified copy, but this will vary by county. License is valid for one year.
The above link will also let you register as an officiant if you are not yet registered in Nevada.
Be aware that marriage license requirements, in both California and Nevada, will vary from county to county and can change. The above information is for guidance only. Verify all information with the county clerk directly.
Looking for an officiant??? Check out our Officiant services.
