Frequently asked Questions and Answers

 

 

Q: We already filled out our marriage license application on the Registrar-Recorder’s website, but they don’t have any available appointments for the next few weeks. We need to get married ASAP – can we use your service after we submitted our information to the RRCC’s website?


A: Yes, you can. Upon completing the marriage license application on the RRCC website, you will receive a confirmation number. This number must be presented during your in-person appointment with the RRCC. If no appointments are available within your preferred timeframe or if you miss your scheduled appointment, your information will be removed from their system.


Q: What is the difference between a confidential and a public marriage license?


A: This is one of the most frequently asked questions by couples preparing for marriage. The distinction is straightforward: once your wedding ceremony is performed, the marriage license must be returned to the appropriate Registrar-Recorder County Clerk’s office for official recording. A public marriage license becomes part of the public record and is available for anyone to view. In contrast, a confidential marriage license does not become a public record and is only accessible to the couple or through a court order. From a legal perspective, there is no difference between the two types of licenses; you will be officially married whether you choose a public or confidential marriage license.


 

Q: If I marry using a confidential marriage license, can I apply for a green card based on my marriage?


A: Yes, you can. A confidential marriage is legally valid, and its confidentiality does not affect its legitimacy. Many couples who have married through our services have successfully applied for green cards for their spouses and children.



Q: I need to get married in order to add my spouse to my insurance benefits or include him/her on a property title. How quickly can I obtain a document to facilitate this?


A: This is a very common request. In this case, we will issue a marriage license, conduct a brief civil ceremony, and provide you with a customer copy of your marriage certificate. This certificate is typically accepted for most state and federal purposes, including adding your spouse to insurance benefits, including them on a real estate title, tax filing, immigration, and military benefits. You will be legally married on the day of your ceremony, and the document we provide can be used as proof of marriage while you await the certified copy, which typically takes 6-8 weeks to process.


 Q: Can a specialized notary issue a public marriage license?

A: No, a specialized notary can only issue a confidential marriage license. If a couple wishes to use a public marriage license, they must obtain it directly from the Registrar-Recorder's County office, which issues both public and confidential licenses.

 

Q: Can we get married the same day if we go to the RRCC office and purchase our marriage license there?


A: No. The Los Angeles Registrar-Recorder's Office does not offer wedding ceremonies on the same day you purchase your marriage license. Please note that a marriage license is simply a permit to marry. To be legally married, your ceremony must be officiated by an authorized individual, such as a minister, priest, judge, or other recognized officiant from any religious denomination. While the Registrar-Recorder’s Office will allow you to schedule your ceremony in the coming weeks, depending on availability, they do not offer same-day ceremonies.


Q: What are the advantages of using your services instead of going to the Registrar-Recorder's County Clerk (RRCC) office to complete everything there?



A: We offer a comprehensive package that includes a marriage license, wedding ceremony, certified copy of your marriage record, and all filing fees and legal expenses. By choosing our services, you can get legally married in less than an hour. Following your appointment, we will provide instant proof of marriage and file the original license with the RRCC on your behalf.


In contrast, the process at the RRCC office can take several weeks, not to mention the significant time spent waiting in line each time you visit. Additionally, we prioritize timely responses to phone inquiries and client questions, whereas reaching a representative at the RRCC office can often be difficult and time-consuming.