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King County (Seattle) processes marriage licenses through its Recorder’s Office, with an online option to start the application before finishing in person, or the option to apply entirely by mail with a notarized form.
| License fee | $169. |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | 3 days after issuance (Washington statewide rule) — cannot be waived under any circumstances. |
| Documents / ID required | Completed marriage license application, valid ID for both applicants, current legal names (not intended post-marriage names). Mail applications require a notarized signature. |
| License validity | 60 days, beginning after the mandatory 3-day waiting period ends (Washington statewide rule). |
| Where & how to apply | Start online at the Recorder’s website and finish in person at the King County Customer Service Center (201 S. Jackson St., Suite 204, Seattle), or apply entirely by mail with a notarized application and check or money order. |
| Office hours | Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; closed weekends and county holidays. |
Special notes
King County’s $169 fee is one of the higher county fees we track nationally. The 3-day wait cannot be shortened for any reason, including by court order, so plan your application date around your ceremony date.
Frequently asked questions
Can the 3-day waiting period be waived in King County?
No. Washington’s 3-day waiting period applies statewide and cannot be waived by a court or for any other reason, unlike some other states.
Official source: King County Recorder’s Office — https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/executive-services/certificates-permits-licenses/records-licensing/recorders-office/marriage-licensing
Last verified: August 2026
Last verified: August 2026