Getting married in Washington? Hell yeah! Whether you’re eloping in the mountains, on the coast, or deep in the forests, you’ll need one thing to make it legal: a marriage license. Washington has its own set of rules, but don’t worry—I’m here to break it all down without the boring legal jargon.

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Table of Contents

1. Where to Get Your Marriage License
   • County Clerk’s Office Locations
   • Can You Apply Online?
2. What You Need to Bring
   • ID Requirements
   • Fees (Because, of Course, It Costs Money)
   • Do You Need a Witness?
3. Marriage License Rules in Washington
   • Expiration Date
   • Waiting Period (Yep, There Is One)
   • Can Your Dog Be a Witness?
4. After the Wedding: Making It Legal
   • Who Files the Paperwork?
   • How to Get Certified Copies
5. Eloping in Washington? Here’s What You Need to Know
   • Permits for Public Land Weddings
   • Officiant Rules
   • Best Hidden Elopement Spots

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1. Where to Get Your Marriage License

You can get your Washington marriage license at any county auditor’s office—it doesn’t have to be in the county where you’re getting married. Just show up, hand over your info, and boom, you’re on your way to making it official.

Can You Apply Online?

Some counties let you start the process online, but you’ll still need to show up in person to finalize everything. Check your county’s website for details: Washington County Auditor Directory.

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2. What You Need to Bring

Before you waltz into the office, make sure you have:

• Valid ID (Driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID)
• Cash or Card (License fees range from $60–$80, depending on the county)
• Both of You Present (Because you’re in this together, right?)

Do You Need a Witness?

Nope! Washington doesn’t require witnesses to sign your marriage license, so you can keep it small and intimate.

Can Your Dog Be a Witness?

As much as we all wish our dogs could sign legal documents, they, unfortunately, cannot. But they can be your VIP guest and moral support. They can however sign the decorative copy that you get to keep.

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3. Marriage License Rules in Washington

Expiration Date

Your marriage license is valid for 60 days, so don’t get it too far in advance or you’ll be making another trip to the county office.

Waiting Period

Washington has a 3-day waiting period, meaning you can’t use your license the same day you get it. Plan ahead!

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4. After the Wedding: Making It Legal

Who Files the Paperwork?

Your officiant is responsible for filing the completed marriage license with the county within 30 days. If they forget, you’re technically not legally married, so maybe don’t let your most forgetful friend officiate.

How to Get Certified Copies

Once your license is filed, you can request certified copies for name changes, legal proof, or just to frame and admire. Each county has its own process, so check with your local auditor’s office.

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5. Eloping in Washington? Here’s What You Need to Know

Permits for Public Land Weddings

If you’re dreaming of a ceremony in Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, or the North Cascades, you may need a special use permit. Always check ahead to avoid last-minute surprises.

Who Can Officiate Your Wedding?

Washington allows judges, religious leaders, and online-ordained friends to officiate weddings. If you need an officiant who actually gives a damn, my husband, Nate, is ordained and delivers heartfelt, personal ceremonies—hit me up if you need someone!

Best Hidden Elopement Spots in Washington

If you want a private, breathtaking elopement location, consider these gems:

• North Cascades National Park – Stunning mountain views with hardly any crowds.
• Hoh Rainforest – Lush, green, and straight out of a dream.
• Ruby Beach – Dramatic sea stacks and coastal magic.
• Artist Point – Unreal views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan.
• Palouse Falls – A hidden gem with a massive waterfall backdrop.
• Rattlesnake Ledge – A short hike to a jaw-dropping view.

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Getting your Washington marriage license isn’t hard, but it’s one of those things you have to check off the list before saying “I do.” If you’re ready to make your elopement official and have a wedding day that actually feels like you, let’s make it happen. Let’s plan a day that feels like a damn dream. Let’s chat!