How to Officiate a Wedding in Santa Clara County, California

Serving San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Mountain View…

Pastafarian minister officiating a wedding

Santa Clara County follows California state marriage law — no waiting period, no registration required, and your FSM ordination is all you need to officiate. This page covers the local details: where to get the marriage license, what it costs, and what to know about doing it here.

Getting the Marriage License

The couple needs to get their marriage license before the wedding. Here’s where to go in Santa Clara County:

Santa Clara County Clerk
110 W Tasman Dr, 1st Floor, San Jose, CA 95134
(408) 299-5688 · clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov

Fee $80.00
Hours Monday to Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Online application Yes
Both parties present? Yes
ID required Valid government-issued photo ID

Good to know:

  • No appointment necessary
  • Standard $80 / Confidential $83
  • Has wedding chapel for rent

Quick Reference

These details come from California state law — see the full California wedding guide for more.

Can an FSM minister sign the license? Yes
Registration required? None
Waiting period None
License valid for 90 days
Witnesses needed 1 adult witness required
Return deadline Within 10 days
FSM Ordination Package

The Ordination Package — $79

  • Paper Certificate of Ordination
  • Black/Silver Resin Wallet Card
  • Two Vinyl Car Decals
  • Digital credentials (PDF) delivered same-day
  • Free shipping worldwide

Get Ordained →