Step-By-Step Guide To Getting A Marriage License In Washington.
Step 1: Get a Marriage License
Both partners must appear in person at a county auditor’s office, provide valid identification (such as a driver’s license or passport), pay a fee, and provide their social security number or an affidavit of not having one.
Auditor’s Offices In Washington:
- Adams
- Asotin
- Benton
- Chelan
- Clallam
- Clark
- Columbia
- Cowlitz
- Douglas
- Ferry
- Franklin
- Garfield
- Grant
- Grays Harbor
- Island
- Jefferson
- King
- Kitsap
- Sittias
- Klickitat
- Lewis
- Lincoln
- Mason
- Okanogan
- Pacific
- Pend Oreille
- Pierce
- San Juan
- Skagit
- Skamania
- Snohomish
- Spokane
- Stevens
- Thurston
- Wahkiakum
- Walla Walla
- Whatcom
- Whitman
- Yakima
Step 2: Wait for a license to be issued
After the application is complete, there is a three-day waiting period before the license becomes valid.
sTEP 3: Find an authorized person to conduct the ceremony
This can be a priest, rabbi, judge, or a person authorized by the county to perform ceremonies, including online ordination services.
We HIGHLY recommend finding an officiant or celebrant to help guide you through your ceremony options. This is their life’s work and can help answer questions you never knew you had.
Step 4: Perform the ceremony
The ceremony must be performed and the marriage license must be signed by the officiant and at least two witnesses.
Step 5: Return the completed forms
The signed and completed license must be returned to the county clerk’s office that issued it within 60 days of the issue date.
Step 6: Receive a Certified Copy of the Marriage Certificate
After the county auditor’s office has processed the license, the couple will receive a certified copy of their marriage certificate, which is the legal document that proves they are legally married.
Note: It’s important to check with the county clerk’s office for any specific requirements or additional information needed before getting a marriage license, as the process may vary slightly by county.