How to Get a Marriage License in King County (Without Losing Your Mind)

Ready to Tie the Knot in Seattle? Your Guide to a Stress-Free Elopement!

Are you ready to tie the knot in Seattle? If you’re thinking about eloping with a little flair, check out our funky little shipping container chapel at Shotgun Ceremonies in Georgetown! Whether you’re planning an Elvis-officiated vow exchange, a quick “let’s do this” moment under our gazebo, or a romantic mini-ceremony with just the two of you and your dog, there’s one very non-negotiable step: getting a marriage license.

But don’t worry! We’ve walked hundreds of couples through this process, and we’re breaking it down right here so you don’t have to stress.

Let’s talk licenses: how to get one, what it costs, how long it’s valid, and how to avoid any last-minute “wait, what?” moments before your wedding.

First Things First: Where Do You Get a Marriage License in King County?

Each county has a recorder’s office; this is where wedding licenses are issued. In King County, you’ll need to apply for your marriage license through the King County Recorder’s Office. (The information here pertains to King County, but the application is the same at any county office. You can apply at any office in the state.)

In King County, you can do this:

• In person at 201 S. Jackson St., Suite 204 in Seattle.

• Or online, then finalize by phone and pick it up (or have it mailed).

  
  

Pro tip: Even if you apply online, the license IS NOT VALID until you’ve paid the fee and gone through their quick confirmation process. Once that’s done, you’re officially in the countdown! (Countdown? Yep – see the info below about the 3-day waiting period.)

What’s It Going to Cost Me?

Right now (early July 2025), it’s $69 to apply for a marriage license in King County. But heads up—that fee jumps to $169 starting July 27, 2025. (We’re not kidding. Blame the county budget.)

That (Annoying but Important) 3-Day Waiting Period

Washington State law requires a three-day waiting period from the time you receive your license, and then it is valid for 60 days. That means:

Day 1: You apply and pay

Day 4: You can legally get married

Day 63: Your license expires

At Shotgun Ceremonies, we’ll ask to see your license before the ceremony. BE SURE you’ve applied in time. No wedding officiant can perform a legal ceremony without it, no matter how cute you look in your wedding outfits.

Here is a calculator that shows you when you need to apply, based on your ceremony date.

What Do I Need to Bring?

You can begin the application process online, but must complete it in the recorder’s office.

Once your online Marriage License Application has been submitted, keep your transaction number. You will finalize the process at:

King County Customer Service Center

201 S. Jackson St., Ste. 204

Seattle, WA 98104

Only one applicant is required to appear in person to complete the process. You must bring payment for the application fee (cash, check, money order, or debit/credit card). Your marriage license application AND the state-mandated three-day waiting period begins on the day the payment is finalized in person at the Recorder's Office.

Also: you don’t need to live in Washington to get married here. Tourists, road-trippers, and cross-state lovers - all welcome!

Can I Get Married at Shotgun Ceremonies with This License?

Heck yes, you can! Once your 3-day wait is up, your King County marriage license is valid anywhere in the state of Washington for 60 days. That includes our Georgetown chapel, our outdoor gazebo, or even your favorite dive bar down the street.

We provide licensed officiants, legal filing, and witnesses at no extra cost, if needed. Seriously… bring your dog, your besties, or no one at all. We’ve got your back.

How Many Witnesses Do I Need?

You need two. Just two adult humans (18+). If you don’t have any with you, we’ll provide them for free. We love pets too! Please bring them... but know that the County does not consider them appropriate witnesses.

What Happens After the Ceremony?

Once you say “I do” at Shotgun Ceremonies, you, your officiant, and witnesses will sign your marriage certificate. Then we’ll return it to the county for official recording.

Want a certified copy for your records (or to change your name)? You can request one from King County for just a few bucks.

Here’s What You Need to Remember:

1. Apply online or in person at King County.

2. Pay the fee ($169 after July 27, 2025).

3. Wait 3 days for the license to be valid.

4. Get married anywhere in Washington State within 60 days.

5. Have your officiant return the signed license.

6. Order certified copies (if needed).

   
   

Still Have Questions?

We’ve done thousands of elopements here at Shotgun Ceremonies, and we’ve seen just about every possible license question, deadline mix-up, and county-related panic attack. If you’re not sure what to do or need help with the process, send us a message (lovecrazy@shotgunceremonies.com). Getting married should be fun, not frustrating.

Why plan bigger? Just pull the trigger! Come elope with us!