Los Angeles County Marriage Records
Marriage records are recorded vital documents that show proof of a marriage between two people. If you're residing in or were married in Los Angeles County, California, you might need to access these records for various reasons, such as legal matters, genealogy research, or simply to obtain a copy of your marriage certificate. Since these are considered public documents, you can also lookup another person's marriage information without needing to ask permission.
What Do LA County Marriage Records Include?
LA marriage records are classified as vital records, which documents an important life event, that provides details about a marriage. Here's what you can typically find in LA County marriage records:
1). Names of the Couple: The full legal names of both partners who were married.
2). Marriage Date and Location: The exact date and location where the marriage took place.
3). Officiant's Name: The name of the person who officiated the ceremony and signed the marriage certificate.
4). Witness Information: Names of any witnesses who were present at the ceremony. This is not always listed
5). License Number: A unique identification number assigned to the LA marriage license.
6). Signatures: Signatures of the couple, officiant, and witnesses, which are needed as confirmation of the marriage.
How to Look Up Los Angeles County Marriage Records
Looking up marriage records in Los Angeles County can vary slightly depending on whether you're seeking verification, or certified copies of records. While these are considered public documents, anyone can view these records online. However, if you are looking for an official copy of these records, you must go through official channels. Here's how to lookup these records:
Public Record Searches: To look up someone's marriage information, you can access these through the LA County Registrar's Office, or use a third-party provider such as a public records website. To view or verify someone's marriage you do not need special permission to do this. You will, however, need to know the full names of the married couples to view these records.
Official Searches: To obtain official copies of a marriage records, or a copy of an LA marriage certificate, you have a couple of options. You can submit a formal request through the County Clerk or County Registrar's Office. Another option is you can visit the California Department of Health - Vital Records website. With either method, you will need to provide proof of identification and pay the required fee for a certified copy.
In-Person LA Marriage Record Request
If you prefer to go in person to request these records or need assistance, you can visit the LA County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's office in person. Here's what you need to do:
1). Locate the Office: Find the nearest Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's office.
2). Make an Appointment: It's recommended to make an appointment at least a couple weeks out. You can call them toll-free @ 800-201-8999.
3). Prepare Required Information: Bring all necessary details, including identification and any relevant information about the marriage.
4). Submit Your Request: Fill out a request form and submit it to the clerk for processing.
5). Pay Applicable Fees: Be prepared to pay any fees associated with obtaining copies or conducting searches.
How to Get a Copy of an LA County Marriage Certificate
Once you've located the marriage record, obtaining a copy of the marriage certificate involves a couple more steps. Here's how you can do it:
Online Requests
1). Access the Online Portal: Visit the County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's website.
2). Request a Copy: Navigate to the marriage certificate request section and follow the prompts.
3). Provide Identification: You'll need to upload a scanned copy of your driver's license or ID for verification purposes.
4). Payment: Pay the required fee using an accepted payment method, usually credit or debit cards only.
5). Receive the Certificate: The certificate will either be mailed to you or available for download, depending on your chosen method.
By-Mail Requests
1). Complete a Request Form: Download and fill out the marriage certificate request form on the county's website.
2). Include Identification: Attach a photocopy of your identification.
3). Payment: Include a check or money order for the applicable fee.
4). Mail the Request: Send your completed form, proof of ID and payment to the address specified on the form.
5). Delivery Time: Your marriage certificate will be mailed to you upon processing, typically 2-3 weeks.
In-Person Request
1). Visit the Office: Head to the LA Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's office. It's best to make an appointment first.
2). Present Identification: Bring your valid identification for verification.
3). Request the Certificate: Fill out the necessary forms provided by the clerk.
4). Payment: Pay any required fees.
5). Receive the Certificate: You may be receive the certificate on that visit, or be notified when it's ready for pickup.
How Do I Run a LA Marriage Records Search?
You have a couple of options to search someone's marriage in Los Angeles County. You can contact either the LA Registrar's office or search via their website. However searching through this resource will typically take a few days for them to respond. You can also lookup marriage records through public record websites, and find out immediately if someone is currently married.
Are LA Marriage Certificates Considered Public Records?
Yes, marriage certificate information is considered public information however, you can only view the information on this certificate. Only the married parties are allowed to have direct access to the physical certificates as these are official documents.
