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King County Marriage License: Cost, Wait Time and Steps

King County Marriage License

How to Get Married in Seattle

If you’re trying to get legally married in Seattle, a marriage license is the only paperwork you need to start. Here’s the simple timeline, what to bring and how couples use Shotgun Ceremonies as a courthouse wedding alternative.

THE QUICK VERSION

JUST THE BASICS

  1. Apply for a Washington State marriage license (King County is most common for Seattle couples)

  2. Wait the required waiting period (3 days) - book your ceremony now!

  3. Get married within the license validity window (60 days)

 

When you get married at Shotgun Ceremonies, just bring your license to your ceremony. We handle the ceremony and file your paperwork after!​

Not sure where you are in the process? Book now and we’ll confirm what you need before you show up.

FIND OUR NEXT OPENING

man and woman exchange wedding rings inside Shotgun Ceremonies shipping container wedding chapel.

Shotgun Ceremonies Wedding

Step-by-step: King County marriage license process

1

Apply for your marriage license

You can apply through King County (or any Washington State county). You’ll provide basic info and pay the $169 license fee. Requirements can change, so always confirm the latest instructions on the official county site.

2

Wait the required waiting period

Washington has a 3-day waiting period before the license becomes valid (and then it's valid for 60 days). Plan around it if you’re traveling or trying to lock in a specific date.

3

Get married within the valid window

Once your license is valid, you can get married anywhere in Washington. Courthouse, park, home, or right here at Shotgun Ceremonies in Georgetown ($500 for a chapel or gazebo ceremony). Book now!

WHAT YOU BRING VS.

WHAT WE HANDLE

YOU BRING

  • Your valid marriage license

  • Your partner

  • Guests (if any)

  • Rings & vows (if you’re doing them)

WE HANDLE

  • A legal ceremony with a licensed officiant

  • Witnesses if you need them

  • Music and a smooth flow

  • Photos (your phone or ours!)

  • A space that feels like a wedding, not an appointment

  • Paperwork signed after the ceremony

  • Completed paperwork filed with the court

VEGAS IN SEATTLE - GET MARRIED BY ELVIS

SEATTLE ELOPEMENT PACKAGES AN PRICING

MORE QUESTIONS? CHECK OUT OUR FAQS

Ready when you are!

If you’ve got your license timing planned, book your Seattle elopement now. We’ll keep it legal, simple, memorable and stress-free!

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