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Kern County processes marriage licenses through the Kern County Clerk’s office in Bakersfield, which requires both applicants to appear together in person; there is no online appointment system.
| License fee | Public marriage license: $101. Confidential marriage license: $123. Certified copy of the marriage certificate: $19. |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | None — California has no statewide waiting period. |
| Documents / ID required | Valid government-issued photo ID for both applicants (driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID). If either applicant was divorced or ended a domestic partnership within the last 90 days, bring an endorsed copy of the final divorce decree or termination document. |
| License validity | 90 days from the date of issuance (California statewide rule). |
| Where & how to apply | Both applicants must appear together in person at the Kern County Clerk’s office — there is no online appointment system or online application. Walk in during office hours. |
| Office hours | Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (last applications are generally accepted around 3:00 p.m.). |
Special notes
Kern County offers both a public marriage license (requires one witness, becomes a searchable public record) and a confidential marriage license (no witness required, record stays private and only the couple can request copies). If you were divorced or ended a domestic partnership within the last 90 days, bring the endorsed final decree — without it, the office cannot issue your license.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between a public and confidential marriage license in Kern County?
A public license requires one witness at the ceremony and becomes a public record, though only authorized parties can request certified copies. A confidential license needs no witness, costs more ($123 vs. $101), and stays private — only the couple can request copies later.
Can I apply for a marriage license online in Kern County?
No. Kern County requires both applicants to appear together in person at the County Clerk’s office in Bakersfield; there is no online application or appointment booking system.
Official source: Kern County Clerk — https://www.kerncountyclerk.com/en/marriage/information.aspx
Last verified: September 2026
Last verified: September 2026
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