Minor Marriages
Information for a Marriage License
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A certified birth certificate is required for the applicant or applicants ages 16-18 and identification is required for an applicant over the age of 18.*
- An interview with a Probation Officer will be conducted with the minor, the minor’s parents, and the minor’s fiancée to discuss the application.
- The couple must receive no less than three hours of marriage counseling in at least two counseling sessions performed by an ordained clergy
person with an organized congregation or a licensed counselor. The marriage counselor will complete a certificate of pre-marital counseling
(supplied by the Probation Officer following the interview).
- If pregnancy is evident, a signed physician’s verification must be submitted. If the couple already has a child, a birth certificate must be provided.
- The parent or legal guardian consenting for an applicant under the age of 18 must have picture identification showing that he/she is the parent or legal guardian.*
- If the applicant(s) is employed, he/she should be able to provide verification of employment and proof of earnings.*
- If either applicant has been previously married, a certified copy of the Dissolution of Marriage is required.*
- Applications for a minor to marry may take as long as 90 days to process.
- A confidential marriage license is not available for a minor.
To schedule an appointment or for additional information contact:
Kern County Probation Department
2005 Ridge Road - P.O. Box 3309
Bakersfield, CA 93385
(661) 868-4100
* Note: Please bring marked items with you to your appointments so we may complete the process as quickly as possible.