Obtaining a Marriage License

  1. Before You Apply
  2. Apply for a Marriage License
  3. Have a Ceremony
  4. Complete and Return Certificate

Applicant Requirements

  • Both applicants must have current photo ID as proof of age and identity.
  • Both applicants must currently be unmarried.
  • Both applicants must not be nearer of kin to each other than second cousins, whole or half blood.
  • Proof of divorce from a previous spouse, or death of a spouse, is not required to obtain a marriage license. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the final decree of divorce is filed before applying for a new marriage license. 
  • Application fee is $62.00.

Age Requirements

  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old, unless they satisfy the requirements for underage applicants listed below.
  • 17-year old applicants can apply if one of the following conditions is met:
    • Applicants who are 17 years of age must be accompanied by one parent or legal guardian who can provide consent on a parent or legal guardian consent form. Please bring a certified copy of the applicant's birth certificate or documents establishing legal guardianship.
    • Applicants who are 17 years of age and are legally emancipated must bring the court-certified copy of the emancipation document with them to apply.
  • 16-year old applications and younger must obtain a family court waiver from superior court. 

Residency and Citizenship Requirements

  • Marriage license applicants do not have to reside in Washington State or Whatcom County.
  • A marriage license purchased from any county in Washington State can be used to get married anywhere in Washington State.
  • A marriage license obtained in Washington State cannot be used to get married in another state or country.
  • Applicants are not required to have a U.S. Social Security number in order to obtain a marriage license. However, one of the marriage license forms requires the inclusion of one's Social Security number OR the applicant's signature on a declaration that they do not have a U.S. Social Security number. This will not impair the couple's ability to receive their marriage license.
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