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A marriage certificate is a legal document that serves as proof of a marriage between two individuals. In the state of California, obtaining a marriage certificate is a crucial step in the marriage process. This document is not only a record of the union but also holds significance for various legal and administrative purposes, such as changing one’s name, updating identification documents, and more.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF, discussing its importance, the process of obtaining it, and the various aspects related to marriage certificates in the state of California.
How to Obtain a Certified Copy of a Marriage Record
Marriage records are available six months after the date of event. California Department of Public Health – Vital Records (CDPH-VR) can ONLY provide certified copies of certificates for public marriages that occurred in the years:
- 1905 to 2000
- 2009 to Present
CDPH-VR cannot provide a copy of the certificate if the marriage record you are seeking falls outside the, range of these years. CDPH-VR is continually indexing marriage records and will post updates on the website as more years become available for request. If CDPH-VR cannot locate the record based on the information you provide, the law authorizes CDPH-VR to retain the fee for the search, and CDPH-VR will issue a Certificate of No Public Record (CNPR).
CONFIDENTIAL MARRIAGES – California Marriage Certificate Form
A confidential marriage license allows all personal information listed on the certificate to be protected from public view. A copy of the record is available ONLY to the two parties involved, unless there is a court order. CDPH-VR does not maintain records of confidential marriages. To obtain records not provided by CDPH-VR, please refer to the enclosed list of county clerk’s offices to request copies of these certificates from the county where the license was issued.
Chapter 1: Understanding the Importance of a Marriage Certificate
Legal Recognition A marriage certificate is a legally recognized document that confirms the marriage between two individuals. It serves as evidence of the marriage’s legality and authenticity, making it essential for various legal matters, including divorce, inheritance, and immigration.
Name Change Many individuals choose to change their last names after getting married. A marriage certificate is often required to initiate this process, which involves updating identification documents such as driver’s licenses, passports, and social security cards.
Insurance and Benefits Married couples may be eligible for various insurance and benefits that require proof of marriage. This includes health insurance, spousal benefits, and survivor benefits, among others. Property and Assets In cases where couples jointly purchase property or assets, a marriage certificate can help establish joint ownership and protect the rights of both spouses.
Chapter 2: The California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF
Obtaining the Form The California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF can be obtained from various sources. It is readily available on the official website of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Additionally, it can be obtained from county clerk’s offices, local government agencies, and many online resources.
Filling Out the Form The form is relatively straightforward and requires information about both parties involved in the marriage. Common details requested on the form include:
- Full names of both spouses
- Date of birth for both spouses
- Place of birth for both spouses
- Parent’s names and birthplaces
- Date and location of the marriage ceremony
Witness Information Most marriage certificate application forms also require the names and contact information of witnesses who were present at the marriage ceremony. These witnesses play a crucial role in verifying the authenticity of the marriage. Marriage License Number To complete the form, you will need to provide the marriage license number issued to you by the county clerk’s office where you obtained your marriage license.
This number is essential for tracking and confirming your marriage. Filing Fee There is typically a fee associated with filing the California Marriage Certificate Application Form. The fee may vary depending on the county in which you submit the form. Be sure to check the current fee schedule to ensure you include the correct payment.
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Chapter 3: The Application Process
In-Person Application To apply for a marriage certificate in California, you can visit the county clerk’s office where you obtained your marriage license. Bring a completed California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF along with the required fee. In-person applications are often processed more quickly.
Mail-In Application If visiting the county clerk’s office is not feasible, you can also submit your application by mail. Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for the filing fee to the appropriate county clerk’s office. Be sure to include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of your marriage certificate.
Online Application Some counties in California offer the option to apply for a marriage certificate online. This method allows you to submit your application and payment electronically. Check with your county clerk’s office to see if this option is available.
Chapter 4: Processing Time and Fees
Processing Time The processing time for a California marriage certificate can vary depending on the county clerk’s office and the method of application. In-person applications typically result in quicker processing times, often within the same day. Mail-in applications may take several weeks, and online applications may have varying processing times.
Fees The fees associated with obtaining a marriage certificate in California can vary by county. It’s essential to check the specific fee schedule for the county where you obtained your marriage license. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the fee ranged from $14 to $28 per copy.
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Chapter 5: Accessing and Using Your Marriage Certificate
Receiving Your Marriage Certificate Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your marriage certificate. If you applied in person, you might be able to pick it up immediately. For mail-in and online applications, the certificate will be sent to the address you provided. Number of Copies Consider obtaining multiple copies of your marriage certificate, as it may be required for various purposes.
It’s advisable to have extra copies on hand for situations such as name changes, updating identification documents, and legal matters. Legal Uses Your marriage certificate is a legal document, and you should keep it in a safe and secure location. It may be needed for legal proceedings, divorce, immigration applications, and more. Always ensure that you keep a copy in a place where you can easily access it when necessary.
Chapter 6: Updating Identification Documents
Driver’s License If you wish to change your last name due to marriage, you will need to update your driver’s license. Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and bring your marriage certificate along with any other required documents to initiate the name change process. Passport Changing your name on your passport requires submitting an application for a new passport with your updated name.
Include your marriage certificate along with the necessary documentation when applying for a new passport. Social Security Card To update your name on your Social Security card, complete the necessary application form, and provide your marriage certificate as proof of the name change. You may also need to provide additional identification documents.
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Chapter 7: Common Questions and Concerns
What if I lost my marriage certificate? If you lose your marriage certificate, you can request a copy from the county clerk’s office where you obtained your marriage license. There may be a fee for obtaining a replacement copy. Can I request a marriage certificate for someone else? In most cases, only the individuals named on the marriage certificate, their legal representatives, or immediate family members may request a copy of the marriage certificate.
Can I obtain a certified copy of my marriage certificate online? While some counties in California offer online applications, the certified copy of the marriage certificate is typically mailed to you. It is important to verify the specific process with your county clerk’s office. Is my marriage certificate public record? Marriage certificates are generally considered public records in California. However, specific details, such as the full addresses of the spouses, may be restricted for privacy reasons.
How To Download California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF
California Marriage Certificate Form PDF Download Link
- VS 113 A (PDF) – Application for Certified Copy of Marriage Record
- VS 113 A SP (PDF) – Application for Certified Copy of Marriage Record
- VS 122 (PDF) – Court Ordered Delayed Certificate of Marriage | Sample (PDF)
- VS 124 (PDF) – Power of Attorney-California Marriage License
CERTIFIED COPIES AND SWORN STATEMENTS
There are two types of certified copies available upon request:
1) Certified Copy (authorized persons only)
A certified copy can be used to establish the identity of the person named on the certificate.If you are requesting a certified copy, you MUST provide a notarized sworn statement (see page 5 ofapplication) declaring under penalty of perjury that you are authorized by law to receive the certifiedcopy (see application for list of authorized individuals).If you are requesting a certified copy and a notarized sworn statement is not included, CDPH-VR will notaccept your request for processing.
Note: Only one sworn statement is required for multiple records that are requested at the same time –however, the sworn statement must include the name of each person whose record is being requested and your relationship to that person.
2) Certified Informational Copy (any interested person)
If you are requesting a certified informational copy, you DO NOT need to provide a sworn statement. A certified informational copy has a legend printed on the face of the document that states, “INFORMATIONAL, NOT A VALID DOCUMENT TO ESTABLISH IDENTITY.” Persons who are not eligible to receive a certified copy can receive a certified informational copy.
Both types of documents are certified copies of the original document on file with CDPH-VR. Depending on the exact year of event, some certified informational copies will have signatures and Social Security numbers redacted (concealed).
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WHAT TO SUBMIT FOR A CERTIFIED COPY OF A MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE
- Completed “Application for Certified Copy of Marriage Record” (VS 113-A).
- Notarized sworn statement (if applicable).
- $17 fee per copy requested (check or money order in US dollars, made payable to CDPH-Vital Records) NO CASH.
APPLICANT NOTIFICATION – California Marriage Certificate Form
Once your request has been received and evaluated:
- If your request is not accepted (e.g., due to insufficient fees, insufficient information, etc.), the request will be returned with a letter explaining what needs to be corrected; or,
- If your request is accepted, CDPH-VR will process the application and mail out a copy of the certificate(s) you requested.
California Marriage Certificate Form PDF PROCESSING TIMES
To check current processing times for certified copies of marriage certificates, visit the CDPH-VR Website (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Vital-Records-Processing-Times.aspx). If you need your copy sooner, please refer to the enclosed list of county recorder’s offices to contact the county where the event occurred.
If you have contacted the county in which you believe your license was issued and they cannot locate your marriage license, it is likely your marriage was never registered. Mail all applications and written inquiries to the address below. If you have any questions, please contact the CDPH-VR Customer Service Unit, Monday through Friday, 8AM – 4PM.
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FAQ’s-California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF
Q: What is the significance of a marriage certificate in California?
Ans: A marriage certificate in California serves as legal proof of a marriage and is crucial for various purposes, including name changes, legal recognition, and access to benefits.
Q: Where can you obtain the California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF?
Ans: You can obtain the California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF from sources such as the official website of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), county clerk’s offices, local government agencies, and online resources.
Q: What information is typically required on the California Marriage Certificate Application Form?
Ans: The form typically requires information about both spouses, including full names, dates of birth, places of birth, parent’s names and birthplaces, and details about the marriage ceremony.
Q: Why is the marriage license number important when filling out the form?
Ans: The marriage license number is essential as it helps track and confirm the marriage’s legality and authenticity. It is required to complete the California Marriage Certificate Application Form.
Q: What are the different methods of applying for a marriage certificate in California?
Ans: You can apply for a marriage certificate in California through in-person applications at the county clerk’s office, mail-in applications, or online applications in some counties.
Q: How long does it typically take to process a marriage certificate application in California?
Ans: The processing time for a marriage certificate application can vary depending on the method used and the county. In-person applications are usually processed more quickly, while mail-in and online applications may take several weeks.
Q: Are there fees associated with obtaining a marriage certificate in California?
Ans: Yes, there are fees associated with obtaining a marriage certificate in California. The specific fee can vary by county, so it’s essential to check the fee schedule for the county where you obtained your marriage license.
Q: What are some common uses of a marriage certificate?
Ans: Marriage certificates are used for various purposes, including changing one’s last name, updating identification documents, legal proceedings, divorce, immigration applications, and accessing insurance and benefits.
Q: What should you do if you lose your marriage certificate?
Ans: If you lose your marriage certificate, you can request a replacement copy from the county clerk’s office where you obtained your marriage license. There may be a fee for obtaining a replacement copy.
Q: Can anyone request a copy of a marriage certificate, or are there restrictions?
Ans: Generally, only the individuals named on the marriage certificate, their legal representatives, or immediate family members may request a copy of the marriage certificate. Access to specific details may be restricted for privacy reasons.
Conclusion -California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF
In conclusion, a California Marriage Certificate Application Form PDF is a crucial document for anyone who has tied the knot in the Golden State. It serves as legal proof of marriage, facilitates name changes, and is required for various legal and administrative purposes. The process of obtaining a marriage certificate is relatively straightforward, with options for in-person, mail-in, and online applications. Understanding the importance of this document and how to access it is essential