Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles: How to Get Married on February 14 (2026 Guide)
Valentine’s Day is one of the most romantic days of the year to get married — and one of the busiest in Los Angeles County.
Every February 14, thousands of couples search for ways to legally get married the same day. Many quickly discover that county offices can be fully booked, courthouse appointments may be limited, and waiting until the last minute can create unnecessary stress.
The good news: California allows same-day marriage. That means you can obtain your marriage license and complete your ceremony on Valentine’s Day — legally and efficiently — when properly planned.
If you are searching for how to get married on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles, this complete 2026 guide explains everything you need to know.
Is it Possible to Have a Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles?
Yes.
California has no waiting period for marriage licenses. That means couples can:
- Apply for their marriage license
- Receive it the same day
- Have the ceremony performed
- Sign the official documents
- Submit the completed license for recording
All in one day.
Because February 14 is a high-demand date, early scheduling is strongly recommended.
Why Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles is So Popular?
Valentine’s Day weddings continue to grow in popularity because they offer:
- Built-in romantic meaning
- A memorable anniversary date
- Intimate ceremony options
- Faster timelines than traditional weddings
- Legal simplicity under California law
Many couples today prefer a meaningful, streamlined ceremony rather than planning a large event months in advance. Valentine’s Day same-day marriages provide that balance of romance and practicality.
Understanding Marriage License Options For Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles County
Before February 14 arrives, you must choose which type of marriage license works best for your situation.
Public Marriage License
- Requires at least one witness
- Becomes part of public record
- Valid for 90 days
- Available to California residents and out-of-state couples
Confidential Marriage License
- No witness required
- Not publicly searchable
- Must certify that you are living together
- Valid for 90 days
Both license types allow immediate ceremonies.
What to Bring on Valentine’s Day – Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
To obtain your marriage license in Los Angeles County, you will need:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver’s license or passport)
- Payment for the fee
- Divorce information if previously married
California does not require:
- Residency
- Blood tests
- Social Security numbers for non-citizens
- A waiting period
If choosing a public license, you must also have at least one witness present at the ceremony.
Official requirements are listed by Los Angeles County here:
https://www.lavote.gov/home/county-clerk/marriage-licenses-ceremonies/general-info/eligibility
Do You Need an Appointment on February 14? – Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
Because Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest wedding dates of the year, availability can be limited.
Los Angeles County offices may:
- Require appointments
- Limit walk-ins
- Close at standard business hours
Planning ahead is the best way to avoid last-minute stress. Couples who wait until the final days before February 14 often find fewer options available.
How the Same-Day Marriage Process Works – Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
Here is what typically happens on Valentine’s Day:
Step 1: Apply for the Marriage License
Both parties appear together with valid identification and complete the application.
Step 2: License Issuance
Once approved, the license is issued immediately and becomes valid right away.
Step 3: Ceremony
An authorized officiant performs the ceremony. California law permits various officiants, including religious ministers and certain authorized officials.
Step 4: Signing the License
After the ceremony:
- Both parties sign
- The witness signs (if public license)
- The officiant completes required sections
Step 5: Recording
The completed license is returned to the County Recorder for official recording. Once recorded, the marriage becomes part of the state record.
Valentine’s Day Elopements in Los Angeles – Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
Not every couple wants a large wedding.
Valentine’s Day elopements are ideal for couples who:
- Prefer privacy
- Want to avoid large guest lists
- Need efficiency
- Are working with time-sensitive situations
Elopements focus on the commitment rather than the event planning.
Courthouse-Style Weddings Without the Long Lines – Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
On holidays and popular dates, courthouses may experience:
- Limited appointment slots
- Long wait times
- Early closures
Couples often seek streamlined solutions that combine license issuance and ceremony coordination to reduce stress and uncertainty.
Planning ahead ensures that your Valentine’s Day wedding remains simple and enjoyable.
Who Valentine’s Day Weddings Are Perfect For – Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
Valentine’s Day same-day marriages are especially popular among:
- Couples eloping
- International couples
- LGBTQ+ couples
- Military couples
- Couples facing travel deadlines
- Second marriages
- Couples seeking simplicity
If you value efficiency, privacy, and meaningful symbolism, February 14 is an excellent date.
Frequently Asked Questions About Valentine’s Day Marriage in Los Angeles – Same Day Marriage on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
Is there a waiting period in California?
No. Marriage licenses are valid immediately upon issuance.
Do we need to be California residents?
No. There is no residency requirement.
Do we need a witness?
Public license: Yes.
Confidential license: No.
How long is the marriage license valid?
90 days from the date of issuance.
When is the marriage legally recognized?
Once the ceremony is completed and the signed license is returned for recording.
Can international couples marry in Los Angeles?
Yes. As long as valid identification is presented, international couples may legally marry in California.
Final Thoughts: Getting Married on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles
Valentine’s Day is one of the most meaningful dates to marry in Los Angeles County. California’s no-waiting-period law makes same-day weddings possible, giving couples flexibility and convenience.
Whether you are planning months in advance or coordinating a ceremony closer to February 14, understanding the license process, documentation requirements, and scheduling expectations ensures everything runs smoothly.
With proper preparation, your Valentine’s Day wedding can be both romantic and legally seamless.