Information for a Marriage License

1. 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.*
2. 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.
3. 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).
4. 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.
5. 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.*
6. If the applicant(s) is employed, he/she should be able to provide verification of employment and proof of earnings.*
7. If either applicant has been previously married, a certified copy of the Dissolution of Marriage is required.*
8. Applications for a minor to marry may take as long as 90 days to process.
9. 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.