Marriage Witness: Requirements Vary by State
A marriage witness is a person who is present at the ceremony and signs the marriage license. Whether witnesses are required, and how many, depends on the state.
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Examples
California requires at least one witness for a public marriage license, and up to two may sign. Licenses with more than two signatures are returned to the officiant, who must buy a new one. Witnesses have no age requirement, but must understand they are witnessing a marriage and be able to sign their name. For a confidential license, no witnesses are required and none sign. This is from the California Department of Public Health.
New York requires one witness, though the form has space for two, according to the Town of Rye.
Where the witness signs
The witness signs the license along with the couple and officiant, which is then returned for registration. In California, the officiant returns it to the county recorder within 10 days.
Frequently asked questions
How many witnesses do I need?
It depends on the state. California and New York each require one for a standard license.
Does a witness have to be an adult?
California sets no age requirement. Other states may, so check your issuing office.
Does the witness need to be a resident?
The sources above do not say. Ask the office that issues your license.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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Related guides
It depends on the state.
A marriage license is the document that gives you legal permission to marry.
