Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Is there such thing as a ''federal'' marriage license?

To whom it may concern,

Is there any way to file for a marriage license through a federal government agency, instead of through a state or county? Or are marriage licenses only regulated and given out at state or county levels?

We currently live in Washington state, but would like to get married down California, but really don't want to file for a license in either location. Does our marriage license HAVE to be associated with a state or county? Or can it be issued through the federal government?

Your help is much appreciated.


Asked on 11/27/02, 10:18 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Lori Wheat Lori L. Wheat, Attorney at Law

Re: Is there such thing as a ''federal'' marriage license?

The federal government does not issue marriage licenses. Each state has its own rules regarding to whom it will issue marriage licenses. Typically, marriage licenses are issued through each county in the state.

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Answered on 11/27/02, 5:30 pm


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