The Easiest Way to Get Your Washington Marriage License
7/09/2026
So you’ve decided to get married in Washington!? Maybe you’re planning a moody rainforest elopement, a mountain ceremony, or something in between. Whatever you’ve got in mind, you’re going to need a Washington marriage license first. And we know, it feels like such a daunting task (seriously, when has paperwork ever felt thrilling), especially if you’re coming from out of state.
But, the process is pretty painless once you know what you’re doing. As Washington elopement photographers that have helped hundreds of couples get married here and everywhere else in the PNW, we’ll break it down.
Getting a Washington Marriage License if you’re from out of state
Good news: you don’t have to be a Washington resident to get married here, and your license is valid anywhere in the state regardless of which county you apply in. Here’s how to get your Washington Marriage if you’re from out of state!
Step 1: Apply for Your Marriage License by Mail
You can apply for your Washington marriage license online or by mail.
If you’re traveling from out of state, we strongly recommend applying by mail through King County.
This is the county where SEATAC is located, so it just makes sense logistically (as you’ll likely be flying in here).
Here’s how the mail-in process works:
- Download the Washington marriage license application from the King County website.
- Fill it out, but don’t sign it yet. You’ll need to do that in person in front of a notary (find a notary at your local library, bank, or credit union).
- Sign the application in front of a notary and have them sign it and attach their seal.
- Mail the completed application along with your payment to the King County Recorder’s Office:
King County Recorder’s Office mailing address:
King County Recorder’s Office
RE: Marriage Application
201 S. Jackson St., Ste. 204
Seattle, WA 98104
Once they process your application, they’ll mail your marriage license and certificate of marriage to you, along with an info packet about next steps (including how to change your name and request certified copies, etc).
Step 2: Pay the Marriage License Fee
Additionally, include a check, money order, or cashier’s check payable to King County Recorder for $169. That’s it (fees vary by county).
Step 3: Observe the 3-Day Waiting Period
Ok this part is what makes a lot of folks worry: Washington state has a mandatory 3-day waiting period after you apply. Nevertheless, it cannot be waived. We know, we think it’s annoying too.
So, plan accordingly and give yourself plenty of buffer time before your ceremony date. HOWEVER, If you’re doing everything by mail, you will easily observe the waiting period.
Step 4: Get Married Within 60 Days
After your license is issued, you have 60 days to get married. Don’t let it expire, you’d have to start the whole process over again
How Much Does a Washington Marriage License Cost?
It varies by county and ranges from $139-&172. We always recommend our out of state couples apply by mail through King County, where it’ll run ya $169.
What Do You Need to Get a Washington Marriage License?
The requirements are pretty simple:
- A completed Washington marriage license application (signed in front of a notary for mail-in applications)
- $169 payment
- Two witnesses present at your ceremony (more on this later for our “just us” couples)
- An eligible officiant (we’ve got you covered here)
That’s it! No blood tests, no residency requirements, and no hoops to jump through!
Can You Apply for a Washington Marriage License Online?
Yup! Washington does offer online applications. That said, if you’re coming from out of state, the mail-in process through King County is our top recommendation, it means your license gets mailed directly to you and you’re not scrambling to pick it up in person when you land.
If you’re in Washington, or prefer to pick up in person, you can apply in any county, as it’s valid statewide. Applying online would definitely be the easiest option!
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Washington State?
Washington has pretty flexible officiant requirements.
If you want a friend or family member to perform your ceremony, they can get ordained online, as long as they meet the criteria for wedding officiants described by Washington state law, you’re good to go.
They can get ordained here.
We’re also ordained and are happy to sign as your officiant for “just us” vibes, or lead you through a simple ceremony if you want some structure!
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Marriage Licenses
Can You Get Married the Same Day You Apply?
– Nope! Washington requires a 3-day waiting period between when you apply and when you can legally get married. This waiting period cannot be waived, so make sure you’re accounting for it in your timeline.
Can You Use a Washington Marriage License in Another State?
– No. Your Washington marriage license is only valid within Washington state.
Do You Need Witnesses to Get Married in Washington?
– Yes, you need two witnesses present at your ceremony. They’ll sign your marriage certificate along with your officiant. If you’re eloping without guests, we can help coordinate witnesses, as we are both happy to sign!
What Happens After the Wedding Ceremony?
– After your elopement ceremony:
- Your officiant will complete and sign your marriage certificate
- Next, your two witnesses will sign it
- After, your officiant is responsible for mailing it back to the county.
- Once it’s been processed, you can check the online records.
- If your record shows a “marriage certificate” document type, you’re officially married and can request certified copies for things like name changes.
Planning Your Washington Elopement?
