Seattle, WA

Seattle marriage license cost and civil wedding steps

Last updated: 2026 • Official Source ↗

Quick answer

Seattle: For Seattle, the listed marriage license fee is $169. The waiting period is 3 Days, and the license is valid for 60 Days. Use the official source before applying, because local offices can change fees, appointments, and ceremony rules.

License Fee

$169

Wait Time

3 Days

Valid For

60 Days
Ranked #86 of 86 by lowest listed cost, above the $66 average

Seattle marriage license cost and wait time

Seattle's listed marriage license fee is $169. The waiting period is 3 Days, and the license has a 60 Days validity window. Compared with the US city average of $66, Seattle is $103 above average and ranks 86 of 86 for lowest listed cost.

Courthouse or city hall wedding in Seattle

If you are searching for a courthouse wedding in Seattle, 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

King County Recorder's Office issues marriage licenses for Seattle. Washington has a mandatory 3-day waiting period that cannot be waived.

1

Requirements

2

Process

01

Visit Recorder's Office

Go to King County Recorder's Office, 500 Fourth Ave., Seattle.

02

Complete Application

Both parties provide ID and complete the application.

03

Pay the Fee

Pay $169 by cash, check, money order, or card.

04

Wait 3 Days

Mandatory waiting period. License valid for 60 days.

How Seattle compares

CityLicense FeeWait Time
Seattle$1693 Days
Madison, WI$1203 Days
San Diego, CA$129no waiting period
St. Paul, MN$125no waiting period
San Francisco, CA$124no waiting period
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a marriage license in Seattle?

The listed marriage license fee for Seattle is $169. Fees can change, so verify the amount with the official office before applying.

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

Seattle: The waiting period is 3 Days. If you are planning a civil or courthouse wedding, build that timing into your date planning.

Can you have a courthouse wedding in Seattle?

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 waive the waiting period?

No, Washington's 3-day waiting period cannot be waived.

Do I need to be a Washington resident?

No residency requirement.

Can I apply by mail?

Yes, you can mail a notarized application if unable to appear in person.