Express Marriage Ceremony

What is the process?

Present Your Issued Marriage License to Our Staff

The couple must present a valid marriage license and current government issued photo ID prior to having an express ceremony performed in our office. If the couple does not have a previously issued marriage license, they can apply for a marriage license with our office and have the express ceremony performed immediatley after the license is issued. Please allow extra time for this process by arriving at least 45 minutes before the end of our transaction hours. 

See the When and Where are these Services Offered section for additional details.

Arrive for Your Express Ceremony at the Front Counter

Express civil ceremonies are performed at the front counter and are limited to a total of five people—the couple and up to three guests (including any witnesses). After the express ceremony is performed, our staff will complete the marriage license, including assisting the witness in completing their portion of the license (if using a public marriage license). Express ceremonies are designed to be simple and efficient, so please note:

  • Photos will not be taken by staff during the express ceremony.

  • The ceremony room is not available for express services.

If you prefer a more formal setting, please schedule an appointment for our indoor ceremony room or a seasonal rooftop ceremony. 

Request Your Marriage Certificate

Marriage certificates will not be available the same day of the express ceremony, as the license must be recorded before a certificate can be issued.
Marriage certificates can be requested in person within 2 business days of the ceremony or by requesting the certificate by mail with our standard application process

Who is eligible?

You must be at least 18 years of age and meet the marriage license requirements to be able to marry. You must have a valid marriage license issued by a County Clerk in California prior to the ceremony.

Is there a charge for this service?

Yes. Please refer to the Clerk-Recorder's Fee Schedule.

When and where is this service offered?

Express Ceremonies will be offered during our normal transaction hours and  at our San Luis Obispo Office at 1055 Monterey St. Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. 
Transaction hours end at 3:30 on Wednesdays and 4:30 other weekdays. 

Location, directions and hours of operation

Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information

Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM* Wednesday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM* *Last transactions processed 30 minutes prior to closing


1055 Monterey Street Suite D120
San Luis Obispo, CA 93408

Tel: (805) 781-5080

Fax: (805) 781-1111

FAQs

Typically you may purchase a certified copy of your marriage certificate within 24-48 hours of your marriage license being recorded. Arrangements may be made to purchase a copy the same day on a case by case basis because of extenuating circumstances.

Persons under 18 with written consent from at least one parent (or legal guardian) AND permission from a California Superior Court Judge may marry. Emancipated minors are NOT exempt from this process. Contact the County Superior Court at (805) 781-5243 for further information regarding these requirements.

Due to the limited space in our lobby and others conducting official business, we limit the number of people for express weddings to  three (3).  If you find your guest list has grown, you may want to consider schedulling and indoor ceremony, seasonal rooftop ceremon, or using our Deputy Commissioner For a Day Program. This provides more flexibility on the location and number of guests for your ceremony.