San Jose, CA

San Jose marriage license cost and civil wedding steps

Last updated: 2026 • Official Source ↗

Quick answer

San Jose: For San Jose, the listed marriage license fee is $79. There is no waiting period, and the license is valid for 90 Days. Use the official source before applying, because local offices can change fees, appointments, and ceremony rules.

License Fee

$79

Wait Time

no waiting period

Valid For

90 Days
Ranked #56 of 86 by lowest listed cost, above the $66 average
Same-day available — No waiting period required

San Jose marriage license cost and wait time

San Jose's listed marriage license fee is $79. There is no waiting period, and the license has a 90 Days validity window. Compared with the US city average of $66, San Jose is $13 above average and ranks 56 of 86 for lowest listed cost.

Courthouse or city hall wedding in San Jose

If you are searching for a courthouse wedding in San Jose, start with the marriage license. Civil ceremony appointments, city hall options, officiants, and return rules are handled locally, so confirm ceremony availability with the official office before choosing a date.

Official details can change without much notice. Treat this as a planning guide and verify with the linked office before you apply.

Overview

Santa Clara County Clerk-Recorder issues marriage licenses for San Jose. No waiting period and no residency requirement. Both public and confidential licenses available.

1

Requirements

2

Process

01

Schedule Appointment

Book online at the Santa Clara County Clerk-Recorder website.

02

Visit Clerk-Recorder

Both parties appear with original valid photo ID.

03

Pay the Fee

Pay $79 for public or $83 for confidential license.

04

Get Married

No waiting period. License valid for 90 days.

How San Jose compares

CityLicense FeeWait Time
San Jose$79no waiting period
Kansas City, MO$80no waiting period
El Paso, TX$81no waiting period
Cincinnati, OH$75no waiting period
Phoenix, AZ$83no waiting period
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a marriage license in San Jose?

The listed marriage license fee for San Jose is $79. Fees can change, so verify the amount with the official office before applying.

How long does it take to get a marriage license in San Jose?

San Jose: There is no waiting period. If you are planning a civil or courthouse wedding, build that timing into your date planning.

Can you have a courthouse wedding in San Jose?

Courthouse, city hall, or civil ceremony availability depends on the local office. The marriage license is the first step; use the official source to confirm ceremony appointments and local rules.

Can I use a digital ID?

No, you must present original physical photo ID.

Is there a waiting period?

No, California has no waiting period.

Where is the office located?

70 W. Hedding Street, East Wing, 1st Floor, San Jose.