How to Apply for a Marriage License in Washington

If you plan to get married in the state of Washington, you will need to obtain a marriage license. Here are the steps to apply for a marriage license in Washington:

1. Both parties must appear together in person at the county auditor's office or the county clerk's office.

2. Bring valid identification such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport.

3. If either party has been previously married, they will need to provide proof of dissolution of the previous marriage (such as a divorce decree or death certificate).

4. Complete the application form and pay the application fee, which varies by county.

5. Wait for a three-day waiting period after applying for the license. The waiting period can be waived for an additional fee if there are extenuating circumstances.

6. After the waiting period, the license can be picked up from the same office where it was applied for.

7. The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere within the state of Washington.

8. At the wedding ceremony, the officiant will complete and sign the marriage certificate, which must be returned to the county within 30 days of the wedding.

It's important to note that the application process may vary slightly by county, so it's best to check with your local county auditor's office or county clerk's office for specific requirements and fees.