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Auditor - Marriage

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1. How do I change my name?

You can purchase a certified copy of your marriage certificate. You will need to work with each agency to identify name change requirements. Here are some common examples of places to contact: Social Security Administration, Department of Licensing, banks and financial institutions, insurance companies, voter registration, or any other office where your name is on record.

2. How do I get a copy of my marriage certificate?

In person or by mail. Certified copies are $3 each for marriage records from 1984 to present. Certified copies prior to 1984 require an $8 search fee and $3 for each certified copy. An additional $8 is charged for every 5 years we search. If requesting by mail, complete the marriage records request form. Marriage Records Request Form

3. Has my marriage certificate been returned?

You can check online. Click on “Search Marriage Index” to search under either party name. If status shows as returned, then your certificate has been returned. Or call our office at (253) 798-7435.

4. Can the three day waiting period be waived?

No, it is a state law.

5. What are the minimum ages for applicants?

Both must be 18 years of age or older.

6. What if one of the applicants is 17? Can he/she get a license?

Yes, as long as the parent (legal custodian) is present with the applicant and provides their consent and proof of age for the underage applicant. (drivers license and birth certificate)
The parent or guardian must complete an Affidavit of Guardian form.

7. How do I get divorced?

Divorces are filed with the County Clerk's office. Please contact the Clerk's office at (253) 798-7455.

8. How long is a marriage license valid?

60 days

9. What type of ID is accepted?

Picture ID with name and date of birth…driver’s license, State ID card, military ID, Passport.

10. Is there a waiting period before I can use the license?

Yes, Washington state law requires a 3 day waiting period.

11. How much is the marriage license?

$64 cash, cashier's check, or money order. Auditor Fee List

12. Is the license only valid in Washington?

Yes, it is only valid in Washington State.

13. What if I lost my marriage packet?

You can purchase a duplicate packet for $6.00. Contact our office at (253) 798-7435 for more information.

14. What do I need to bring in?

Picture ID with birth date, both applicants must be present unless the application is notarized, and $64.00.

15. Is all information on the marriage certificate mandatory?

Yes, you must complete all items on the marriage certificate.

16. What if the person doesn't know the information on one of the parents?

You may enter "unknown" for one of the parent's information. You must list at least one of your parents name and place of birth.

17. What if I don't know the information at the time I apply, but I can find it before we are married?

You can leave the information blank, then fill out the information before you are married.

18. What if one of us is not legally divorced yet, can we still apply for a marriage license?

No, the divorce must be final and filed before the applicants can apply for a marriage license.

19. Can we get married again in Washington even if we are legally married in another state or country?

You can’t apply for a marriage license in Washington because you are already married in another state or country. You could still have a ceremony, but you would not apply for a marriage license with the county office.