How to Get a Marriage License in Seattle

Getting a marriage license in Seattle is a foundational step in legally recognizing your union under Washington State law. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony at Kerry Park or a grand celebration at the Seattle Art Museum, the process begins with securing your marriage license from the King County Recorder’s Office. Unlike many states that require blood tests or extended waiting periods, Washington offers a streamlined, accessible system designed to accommodate couples from all walks of life. Understanding how to navigate this process efficiently ensures your wedding day proceeds without unnecessary delays or legal hiccups.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of obtaining a marriage license in Seattle, including eligibility requirements, documentation, fees, and timelines. We’ll also cover best practices to avoid common pitfalls, recommend essential tools and resources, share real-life examples from couples who’ve successfully completed the process, and answer frequently asked questions. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have all the information needed to confidently apply for your marriage license—on time, correctly, and with peace of mind.

Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a marriage license in Seattle involves seven clear, sequential steps. Following them precisely ensures your application is processed without delays. While the process is straightforward, attention to detail is critical—especially regarding identification, residency status, and appointment scheduling.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning your application, both parties must meet Washington State’s legal criteria for marriage:

• Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If either party is 17, they must provide written consent from a parent or legal guardian and appear in person with them during the application process.
• Neither person can be currently married to someone else. Divorced individuals must provide the date their previous marriage ended. Widowed individuals must provide the date of their spouse’s death.
• Both parties must be mentally capable of consenting to marriage. There are no requirements for pre-marital counseling or blood tests in Washington.
• Couples must not be closely related by blood. Marriage between siblings, parents and children, or aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews is prohibited. First cousins may marry.

Same-sex couples have had the legal right to marry in Washington since 2012, and all marriage licenses are issued regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Each applicant must present valid, government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms include:

• Driver’s license or state ID card
• Passport (U.S. or foreign)
• Permanent resident card (Green Card)
• Consular identification card (if issued by a foreign government and accompanied by a translated affidavit if not in English)

If either party has changed their name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring documentation supporting the name change (e.g., divorce decree, court order, or certified copy of a previous marriage certificate). If your identification does not reflect your current legal name, you may be asked to provide additional proof.

Non-U.S. citizens must provide valid identification and proof of legal presence in the United States. A visa or I-94 record may be requested but is not always mandatory if a passport is presented. It’s advisable to contact the King County Recorder’s Office directly if you have questions about international documentation.

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

As of 2024, the King County Recorder’s Office requires all marriage license applicants to schedule an appointment in advance. Walk-in applications are no longer accepted. Appointments are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays.

To book your appointment:

1. Visit the official King County Recorder’s Office website: kingcounty.gov/en/depts/auditor/recorder/marriage-licenses
2. Click on “Schedule an Appointment” under the “Marriage License” section.
3. Select your preferred date and time. Appointments are released in 30-minute intervals.
4. Provide your full name, contact information, and the name of your partner.
5. Confirm your appointment via email or text message.

Appointments are typically available within 1–7 days, depending on demand. During peak wedding seasons (May through October), it’s recommended to book at least two to three weeks in advance.

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment Together

Both parties must appear in person at the King County Recorder’s Office located at:

King County Recorder’s Office

500 4th Avenue, Room 210

Seattle, WA 98104

Do not arrive more than 15 minutes before your scheduled time. The office is located in the King County Administration Building, accessible via the Seattle Center Monorail, light rail (Westlake Station), and multiple bus lines. Parking is limited; consider using public transit or rideshare services.

At your appointment:

• Both applicants will be asked to present their photo ID.
• You’ll complete a marriage license application form. This form collects legal names, dates of birth, places of birth, parents’ full names, and previous marital status.
• You’ll be asked to declare under penalty of perjury that all information provided is true and accurate.
• There is no oath or ceremony at this stage—this is purely an administrative process.

After reviewing your application, a deputy recorder will issue your marriage license on the spot. You’ll receive two copies: one for your records and one for your officiant to complete and return after the ceremony.

Step 5: Pay the Required Fee

The current fee for a marriage license in King County is $72. Payment is accepted in cash, credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover), or debit card. Checks and money orders are not accepted.

The fee is non-refundable, even if the marriage does not take place. It covers the cost of processing, recordkeeping, and issuing the license. There are no discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel.

Tip: Bring exact change if paying in cash to expedite the process. Credit card transactions may take slightly longer due to authorization delays.

Step 6: Understand the License Validity and Usage

Your marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. You must complete your wedding ceremony within this window. If the ceremony is not performed within 60 days, the license expires and becomes invalid. You’ll need to reapply and pay the fee again.

The license must be signed by:

• Both parties
• The officiant (authorized to perform marriages in Washington State)
• At least one witness (age 18 or older)

Washington State allows ordained ministers, judges, court commissioners, and certain religious officials to solemnize marriages. Some online ordination services (like the Universal Life Church) are recognized, but it’s wise to confirm your officiant’s eligibility with the Recorder’s Office beforehand.

After the ceremony, your officiant is responsible for returning the signed license to the King County Recorder’s Office within 30 days. Failure to do so may delay the issuance of your official marriage certificate.

Step 7: Obtain Your Official Marriage Certificate

Once the signed license is returned and processed, your marriage is officially recorded. You can request certified copies of your marriage certificate at any time after the recording is complete—usually within 1–2 weeks.

To order copies:

• Visit the King County Recorder’s Office website
• Click “Order a Marriage Certificate”
• Provide the names of both spouses, the date of the license issuance, and your contact information
• Pay $30 per certified copy (additional copies ordered at the same time are $10 each)
• Choose delivery method: mail (5–7 business days) or in-person pickup

It’s recommended to order at least two certified copies—one for changing your name with the Social Security Administration and another for updating your bank accounts, insurance policies, and employer records.

Best Practices

Following best practices ensures a smooth, stress-free experience when applying for your marriage license. Many couples overlook small but critical details that can cause delays or complications.

Plan Ahead, Especially During Peak Seasons

Seattle’s wedding season peaks between May and October, particularly on weekends. The Recorder’s Office sees a surge in applications during this time. To avoid disappointment, schedule your appointment at least 4–6 weeks in advance. If you’re planning a destination wedding, apply for your license at least two weeks before your ceremony date to allow for travel and unforeseen delays.

Double-Check All Names and Spellings

Mistakes in names on the application—such as misspelled middle names, incorrect suffixes (Jr., Sr.), or outdated maiden names—can delay the issuance of your marriage certificate. Ensure every name matches exactly what appears on your government-issued ID. If you plan to change your name after marriage, write your desired new name clearly on the application form. The license will reflect your legal name at the time of application, but your certificate can be used to legally change your name later.

Bring a Backup Form of ID

While one valid photo ID is sufficient, bringing a second form of identification (such as a birth certificate or social security card) can be helpful if there’s a discrepancy between your primary ID and the information you’ve provided. It’s better to be over-prepared than to be turned away.

Confirm Your Officiant’s Credentials

Not all individuals who claim to be ordained are authorized under Washington law. Verify your officiant’s status by checking the Washington State Courts website or contacting the King County Recorder’s Office directly. If your officiant is from out of state, they must apply for a one-time temporary authorization to perform your ceremony. This requires submitting a form at least 10 days before the wedding.

Keep the License Secure

Your marriage license is a legal document. Do not fold, staple, or write on it. Keep it in a protective sleeve or envelope. After the ceremony, ensure your officiant returns it promptly. If you’re using a wedding planner or coordinator, assign someone to follow up with the officiant to confirm the license was mailed.

Consider a Pre-Wedding Name Change Consultation

If you or your partner plan to change your name, research the process ahead of time. Each institution—Social Security, DMV, banks, employers—has its own requirements. Having certified copies of your marriage certificate ready will save you weeks of paperwork. Consider using a name-change checklist or digital tool to track each step.

Be Aware of Holiday Closures

The King County Recorder’s Office is closed on federal and state holidays. Avoid scheduling your appointment on days like Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, or Thanksgiving week. Check the official calendar before booking.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and official resources are available to simplify the marriage license process in Seattle. These tools help you stay organized, verify requirements, and track deadlines.

Official Resources

• King County Recorder’s Office – Marriage License Page: kingcounty.gov/en/depts/auditor/recorder/marriage-licenses – The definitive source for forms, fees, appointment scheduling, and FAQs.
• Washington State Courts – Authorized Officiants: courts.wa.gov/officiants – Searchable database to confirm whether your officiant is registered to perform marriages in Washington.
• Washington State Department of Health – Vital Records: doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/BirthandDeathRecords – For ordering certified copies of your marriage certificate after it’s recorded.

Third-Party Tools

• Marriage License Checklist (PDF Download): Many wedding planning websites offer downloadable checklists that include deadlines for booking appointments, ordering certificates, and notifying institutions of a name change. Search “King County marriage license checklist PDF” for free templates.
• Google Calendar Integration: Set automated reminders for your appointment, the 60-day expiration date, and the 30-day window for returning the signed license. Sync these with your partner’s calendar.
• Evernote or Notion Templates: Create a dedicated workspace to store scanned copies of IDs, appointment confirmations, and contact information for your officiant and witnesses.
• Name Change Assistant Apps: Apps like “The Name Change Project” or “MissNowMrs” guide you through updating your name with over 50 institutions, including banks, credit card companies, and the DMV. These tools generate pre-filled forms and track submission status.

Local Support Services

Seattle has several nonprofit and community organizations that offer free or low-cost wedding planning support, especially for couples with limited resources:

• Seattle City Hall Wedding Program: Offers free civil ceremonies on select weekdays. Couples who apply for a marriage license through King County may be eligible to schedule a free ceremony with a judge at City Hall.
• Seattle Marriage Equality Coalition: Provides resources and advocacy for LGBTQ+ couples, including guidance on documentation and legal protections.
• King County Library System: Offers free access to legal forms, including name change petitions and marriage documentation guides. Visit any branch for assistance.

Real Examples

Real-life stories illustrate how couples successfully navigated the marriage license process in Seattle—and what they learned along the way.

Example 1: Maya and James – International Couple

Maya, a citizen of Canada, and James, a U.S. resident of Seattle, planned to marry at the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Maya’s Canadian passport was her only form of ID. She brought a certified English translation of her birth certificate, provided by a sworn translator in Vancouver, to confirm her date of birth and parentage. The Recorder’s Office accepted both documents without issue. They scheduled their appointment 6 weeks in advance and completed their ceremony 10 days after receiving the license. Maya later used her marriage certificate to apply for a U.S. spouse visa.

Example 2: Darnell and Lisa – Name Change Journey

Darnell and Lisa, married in August 2023, both wanted to hyphenate their last names. They carefully wrote their desired new names on the application form. After the ceremony, they ordered three certified copies of their marriage certificate. Lisa used the certificate to update her driver’s license and bank accounts within two weeks. Darnell, who works for a federal agency, needed to submit additional forms through his HR portal. He used a Notion template to track each submission and received confirmation for all changes within 45 days.

Example 3: Raj and Priya – Officiant Verification

Raj and Priya hired a friend who had been ordained online through the Universal Life Church. Before their wedding, they contacted the King County Recorder’s Office to confirm the officiant’s eligibility. They were advised that while online ordinations are accepted, the officiant must complete a one-time registration form. They submitted the form 12 days before the ceremony and received confirmation via email. The license was signed and returned on time, and they received their certificate two weeks later.

Example 4: Alex and Taylor – Last-Minute Emergency

Alex and Taylor, who had planned a winter wedding, had their venue canceled due to a snowstorm. They rescheduled for a new date 48 hours away. They had already received their license but realized it would expire in 10 days. They contacted the Recorder’s Office and were told the license could not be extended. They had to reapply, pay the fee again, and reschedule their ceremony. They now advise all couples to build a 10-day buffer into their timeline for unexpected changes.

FAQs

Can I get a marriage license in Seattle if I don’t live in Washington?

Yes. Washington State does not require residency. Couples from any state or country may apply for a marriage license in King County. The license is valid for marriages performed anywhere in Washington State.

Do I need a witness to get the marriage license?

No. Witnesses are not required to be present when you apply for the license. However, you must have at least one witness present during your ceremony to sign the license after the vows are exchanged.

Can I get married the same day I receive the license?

Yes. There is no waiting period in Washington State. You can apply for your license in the morning and have your ceremony the same afternoon, provided your officiant is available and the venue is booked.

What if I lose my marriage license?

If the license is lost before the ceremony, you must return to the King County Recorder’s Office and apply for a replacement. You’ll need to pay the $72 fee again. If it’s lost after the ceremony but before being returned, contact your officiant immediately—they may have a copy. If not, you’ll need to reapply and reschedule your ceremony.

Can I use a pseudonym or stage name on the marriage license?

No. You must use your legal name as it appears on your government-issued ID. Any name change must be done legally after the marriage using your certified marriage certificate.

Is there a discount for military personnel or seniors?

No. The $72 fee is standard for all applicants, regardless of age, veteran status, or income.

Can I apply for a marriage license online?

No. Both parties must appear in person. Online applications are not accepted. However, you can schedule your appointment and review forms online.

What if one person cannot attend the appointment?

Both parties must be present. There are no exceptions. If one person is unable to attend due to illness or emergency, you must reschedule the appointment.

How long does the appointment take?

Most appointments last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on how prepared you are and whether there are questions about documentation.

Can I change my name on my marriage license application?

You can indicate your desired name change on the application, but the license will reflect your current legal name. Your marriage certificate is the legal document you’ll use to change your name with government agencies and institutions.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in Seattle is a simple, efficient process when approached with preparation and clarity. By understanding eligibility requirements, gathering the correct documentation, scheduling your appointment well in advance, and following up on post-ceremony steps, you eliminate the most common sources of delay and stress. Whether you’re a local resident or traveling from afar, Washington State’s inclusive and accessible system ensures that your legal union begins on solid ground.

The tools, resources, and real-life examples outlined in this guide are designed to empower you with confidence. Don’t underestimate the importance of double-checking names, verifying your officiant, and keeping your license secure. These small steps make a significant difference in ensuring your marriage is recognized without complication.

Once your license is issued and your ceremony complete, you’ll hold more than just a legal document—you’ll hold the official beginning of your shared life. Use your certified marriage certificate wisely to update your identity, protect your rights, and celebrate your commitment in every official capacity.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official King County Recorder’s Office website. Planning ahead, staying organized, and trusting the process will allow you to focus on what truly matters: beginning your marriage with joy, clarity, and peace of mind.