Contra Costa County marriage license — office, fees & hours
How to get a marriage license in Contra Costa County, California: the issuing office, its address, phone and hours, the current fees, and how applying in person works.
Where to apply in Contra Costa County
| Office | Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder |
|---|---|
| Address | 555 Escobar Street Martinez 94553 |
| Phone | (925) 335-7900 |
| Office hours | Mon–Fri 8:00am–4:30pm; walk-in license/civil ceremonies 8:00am–3:30pm (arrive by 4:00pm) |
| Website | https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/marriage-license/ |
| Public license fee | $95 |
| Confidential license fee | $100 |
| Appointment | Appointments are not required to purchase a license (walk-ins welcome); civil marriage ceremonies can be scheduled by appointment or as a walk-in. |
Good to know
The office accepts cash, credit, and debit cards (cards carry an added service fee); checks are not accepted for marriage licenses or wedding ceremonies. Ceremonies run 8:20am–3:20pm, with after-hours ceremonies on the first and third Thursday and an expedited window ceremony available without appointment. Outdoor ceremonies are offered directly behind the building.
How the process works
Both people appear together in person with valid government photo ID. California has no waiting period and a marriage license is valid for 90 days anywhere in the state. Confirm anything time-sensitive with Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder before you travel, because office hours and fees can change.
Questions people ask
Where do I get a marriage license in Contra Costa County?
In person at the Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder, 555 Escobar Street (Martinez, CA 94553).
How much is a marriage license in Contra Costa County?
The public marriage license fee is $95, and a confidential license is $100. County fees change, so confirm the current amount when you book.
What are the Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder hours?
Mon–Fri 8:00am–4:30pm; walk-in license/civil ceremonies 8:00am–3:30pm (arrive by 4:00pm)
Do we need an appointment in Contra Costa County?
Appointments are not required to purchase a license (walk-ins welcome); civil marriage ceremonies can be scheduled by appointment or as a walk-in.