Marriage Licensing

Please follow the instructions below to apply for your marriage license. 

Washington State has a mandatory 3-day waiting period. The 3-day waiting period cannot be waived.

The 3-day waiting period does not begin until you have purchased the license. The license is valid for 60 days from the issuance of the license.

DAY YOU APPLY FOR LICENSE	FIRST DAY YOU CAN MARRY
Monday →	Thursday
Tuesday →	Friday
Wednesday →	Saturday
Thursday →	Sunday
Friday →	Monday

1. Fill out the application online. 

Complete the online application. Select ’Print Preview’ to print the marriage application, and then select ’Apply’.

If you don’t have a computer, please call for assistance. (253) 798-7435

All marriage applications are public record (RCW 26.04.170) and may be published in the local newspaper.

2. Submit your application and $72 fee.

Schedule an appointment at the top of this page.

The easiest way to complete the process is for the couple to come into our office together. Bring in government issued photo ID (both people must be 18) and the $72 fee.

You'll be given a Marriage License.

If you are unable to appear in person together, you can submit a notarized application by mail.

*Note: the license is valid for 60 days from the issuance of the license. 

  Call 253-798-7435 for Assistance 

3. Get married. 

Once you receive your marriage packet in the mail you can get married. Have your original marriage certificate signed by your witnesses, officiant, and yourself. 

4. Return signed marriage certificate and get certified copies. 

After you’re married, you MUST return the original, signed, marriage certificate to the Auditor’s Office. Return your certificate by mail or in-person, at the Pierce County Annex. using our document drop box.

Certified copies may be purchased for $3 each. You’ll need certified copies to:

• Change your name with Social Security.
• Apply for military benefits. 
• Change your driver’s license.

Request Certified Marriage License Copies Online

Order copies online and have them mailed or pick them up.

Request Certified Marriage License Copies by Mail

Complete the form and mail it with appropriate payment to receive certified copies of your marriage license by mail. 

Mail signed marriage certificates to:

Pierce County Auditor
Attn: Marriage License
2401 S. 35th St., Room 200
Tacoma, WA 98409

Use our document drop box in-person at:

Pierce County Annex
2401 S. 35th St.
Tacoma, WA 98409

Find more information about marriage requirements in RCW 26.04.