Age Requirements and Who Can Marry
What are the minimum ages for applicants?
Both must be 18 years of age or older.
What if one of the applicants is 17? Can he/she get a license?
Yes, provided the custodial parent or legal guardian is present with the applicant and provides his or her written consent. Legal guardians must present guardianship papers.
Print an Application for a Marriage License
Print a Marriage License Supplemental - Affidavit of Guardian
Print a Marriage License Supplemental - Affidavit of Translator
What if one of the applicants is under 17? Can they get a license?
Only when the age requirement is waived by a superior court judge of the county in which one of the parties resides. If both applicants reside in Snohomish County, for example, permission must be sought from Snohomish County Superior Court. In Snohomish County, applicants should call Snohomish County Superior Court, Family Court Section, 425-388-7370.
What ages are the witnesses required to be?
Although the State law does not specify the age of witnesses, the witnesses are witnessing a civil contract. As such, a witness is deemed "competent" for this purpose usually at the age of 18. We recommend two witnesses who are over 18 observe the exchange of vows (marriage) and sign the marriage certificate.
Print an Application for a Marriage License
Print a Marriage License Supplemental - Affidavit of Guardian
Print a Marriage License Supplemental - Affidavit of Translator
Can persons of the same sex marry?
No. Same sex marriages are not recognized in Washington State.