How to Get Married Today Near Me (Fastest Legal Options)
If you’re searching how to get married today near me, you’re probably not looking for theory or long explanations — you want real answers, fast options, and to know what actually works today.
The good news: yes, it is possible to get legally married today, even if the courthouse is booked or closed. The key is choosing the fastest legal path based on your situation.
This guide breaks it down step by step so you can get married today, not weeks from now.
Can You Get Married Today Near You?
In order to get married today, three things must happen on the same day:
- You obtain a valid marriage license
- A legally authorized officiant performs the ceremony
- The marriage is properly filed with the county
If any of these steps are delayed, the marriage does not happen today.
Most couples run into problems because county offices:
- Require appointments booked days or weeks in advance
- Close on weekends and holidays
- Do not issue licenses and perform ceremonies at the same time
That’s why many couples searching how to get married today near me end up using a same-day marriage provider instead of the courthouse.
The 3 Fastest Ways to Get Married Today Near Me
Option 1: County Marriage License & Ceremony (Only If Appointments Are Available)
Some county offices offer marriage licenses and civil ceremonies, but only by appointment and only during limited hours.
This option works only if:
- You can secure a same-day appointment
- You can bring a valid government-issued ID
- You can bring a witness (for public licenses)
If appointments are unavailable or the courthouse is closed, this option will not work today.
Option 2: Same-Day Marriage License & Ceremony Provider (Fastest Option)
This is the most reliable option for couples who need to get married today.
A same-day marriage provider can:
- Issue your marriage license
- Perform the ceremony
- File the paperwork with the county
All in one visit.
This option is commonly used when:
- The courthouse is fully booked
- You don’t want to wait weeks for an appointment
- You need a simple, legal marriage today
- You are visiting from out of state or another country
Option 3: Mobile or Emergency Marriage Services
If you cannot travel or need a ceremony at a specific location (hospital, home, hotel), some providers offer mobile same-day marriage services.
Availability depends on location and time, but this can be an option for urgent situations.
What You Need to Get Married Today
Before you go, make sure you have the following ready:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
(Driver’s license, state ID, passport, or other accepted ID) - Both parties present
- Payment for license and service fees
- A witness if required (some license types do not require one)
Official requirements are listed by Los Angeles County here:
https://www.lavote.gov/home/county-clerk/marriage-licenses-ceremonies/general-info/eligibility
Some providers also offer:
- Translation services
- Witness services if you don’t have one
- Certified copy ordering assistance
Having these items ready avoids delays and makes it possible to get married the same day.
Do You Need a Witness to Get Married Today?
This depends on the type of marriage license:
- Public marriage license: Requires one witness
- Confidential marriage license: No witness required
Many couples searching how to get married today near me choose a confidential license because it is faster and more private.
How to Find a Legitimate Same-Day Marriage Service Near You
When searching “how to get married today near me,” ask these questions before booking:
- Can you issue the marriage license today?
- Can you perform the ceremony today?
- Do you file the marriage with the county?
- What IDs do you accept?
- Do you require a witness?
Avoid providers who:
- Only offer officiant services but no license
- Cannot clearly explain filing
- Are vague about same-day availability
How Long Does It Take to Get Married Today?
In most cases:
- The entire process takes 30–90 minutes
- You leave legally married the same day
- Your marriage is filed with the county after the ceremony
Certified copies are typically ordered afterward and mailed to you.
Getting Married Today in Los Angeles
If you are in Los Angeles or nearby, same-day marriage services are commonly used because county appointments are often booked weeks in advance.
At SameDayMarriage, couples can:
- Obtain a marriage license
- Have a legal ceremony
- Complete all paperwork in one visit
This makes it possible to get married today, even when the courthouse is unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Married Today Near Me
Can I get married today near me without an appointment?
Yes. While counties require appointments, same-day marriage providers do not.
Can I get married today near me if the courthouse is closed?
Yes. Private same-day marriage services operate outside courthouse hours.
Can we get married today near me with a passport?
In many cases, yes. Accepted IDs vary, so confirm before visiting.
Do we have to be California residents?
No. Residency is not required to get married in California.
How soon is the marriage legally valid?
Immediately after the ceremony is completed and signed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching how to get married today near me, the fastest and most reliable option is choosing a service that can handle both the marriage license and ceremony in one visit.
Whether you’re planning ahead or dealing with an urgent situation, getting married today is absolutely possible with the right approach.