Clark County Marriage Record Search

Clark County marriage records serve as the official documentation of marriages that occur within the county. These records are crucial for legal verification, personal record-keeping, and genealogical research. In Washington State, marriage is governed primarily by RCW 26.04, which outlines requirements for obtaining a marriage license, valid officiation, and other legal provisions.

The following information is typically included in Clark County marriage records:

• Names of the spouses – Both parties’ full legal names as they appeared on the application.
• Date and location of the marriage – The exact wedding date and place (city, venue, etc.).
• Name of the officiant – The person legally authorized under Washington law (RCW 26.04.050) to solemnize the marriage.
• Supporting documents – Such as the marriage license application, the marriage certificate, and supplementary legal forms.

Unlike in many states where the County Clerk’s Office may be the primary custodian of marriage records, the County Auditor’s Office typically handles marriage licensing and recording in Washington. Consequently, the Clark County Auditor’s Office is the official repository for all marriage records in Clark County.

Additionally, Clark County Court Records (e.g., for name-change orders or divorce decrees) can be accessed through the Clark County Clerk’s Office, but original marriage records themselves—such as licenses and certificates—are held by the Auditor.

Are Marriage Records Public?

Yes. Marriage records in Clark County are generally considered public documents and fall under the provisions of Washington’s Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). Because they originate from a government agency—the Clark County Auditor’s Office, which handles marriage licensing—the records are typically accessible for inspection and copying by the public. However, there are important exceptions and privacy considerations to keep in mind.

For instance, private data—such as Social Security numbers—are typically removed from copies before they are released to the public to protect against identity theft and other privacy risks.

In rare circumstances, a court may order marriage records or portions thereof to be sealed. This generally occurs when disclosure would pose a serious risk to personal safety or otherwise violate legally recognized confidentiality standards.

Similarly, certified copies of marriage records are official copies, stamped and sealed by the Clark County Auditor’s Office. In Washington, these are still obtainable by the general public unless sealed by court order. However, those requesting a certified copy should confirm fees and procedures with the Auditor’s Office, as payment and a written request are usually required.

Types of Marriage Records in Clark County

The following are the types of marriage records in Clark County:

Marriage License

A marriage license is the official document issued by the Clark County Auditor’s Office when couples apply to marry. Per RCW 26.04.140, couples must provide the necessary documentation, pay the required fees, and wait for the three-day waiting period (RCW 26.04.180) before the ceremony can take place. Marriage licenses can be obtained in the following steps:

• Complete the application online (if available) or in person at the Auditor’s Office.
• Provide valid identification and pay the required fee.
• Wait for the mandatory 3-day period before the wedding can be solemnized.

The license remains valid for 60 days from the date of issuance in Washington State.

If the couple does not get married within that 60-day window, they must reapply and pay the fee again.

After the marriage ceremony, the officiant (authorized under RCW 26.04.050) must return the completed and signed license to the Clark County Auditor’s Office. 

Marriage Certificate

A marriage certificate is a legal document that confirms two individuals are officially married. It is generated and recorded after the officiant submits the signed marriage license to the Clark County Auditor’s Office.

Typically, the marriage certificate becomes available once the Auditor’s Office processes the completed license. Processing time varies but usually takes a few business days to a couple of weeks.

Certified Copies can be requested from the Clark County Auditor’s Office in person, by mail, or sometimes online through the county’s website.

A certified marriage certificate is often required for name changes, spousal benefits, insurance purposes, and other legal or administrative processes that require proof of marital status.

Marriage Record Verification

While not as common as a marriage license or certificate, a marriage record verification or “verification letter” can sometimes be obtained for those who simply need evidence that a marriage is on file in Washington.

Typically, a verification letter (if offered) will confirm the names of the spouses, the date of the marriage, and the county in which the marriage was recorded. In some cases, staff may provide a formal letter or statement confirming the existence of a marriage record on file.

How to Find Marriage Records in Clark County

Marriage records in Clark County are managed by the Clark County Auditor’s Office, which is responsible for issuing marriage licenses and recording marriages. Individuals seeking copies of marriage records can access them through multiple avenues, as outlined below:

• Clark County Auditor’s Office
• Clark County’s Online Recorded Documents Search
• Washington State Digital Archives
• Third-Party Websites (for basic index information—though official, certified copies must be obtained through the Auditor’s Office)

Clark County Marriage License Lookup

The Clark County Auditor’s Office is responsible for issuing marriage licenses and maintaining official records of marriages within the county. Individuals who wish to obtain information about a specific marriage license or request certified copies of marriage documents can do so through various methods outlined below:

In Person

Visit the Recording Department at:

Clark County Auditor’s Office – Recording Department
1300 Franklin Street, 
Suite 175, 
Vancouver, WA 98660
Phone: (564) 397-2208
Email (general inquiries): recording@clark.wa.gov 

Please complete the required forms with information such as the full names of both spouses and the approximate date of marriage. Then, pay any applicable fees.

Mail Requests

Write a request letter stating the full legal names of both spouses at the time of the marriage, the approximate date of marriage, and any additional details that might help locate the record (e.g., the marriage license number, if known).

Include a check or money order payable to the Clark County Auditor for the correct fee amount.

Provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of the documents.

Online Search and Requests

The Clark County Auditor’s Office provides an online recorded documents search tool for certain public records, including marriage records. Depending on the date of the marriage, inquirers may search an index of recorded documents.

For copies (certified or otherwise), complete an online request form and pay the associated fee electronically.

Where Do I Get A Certified Copy Of My Marriage Certificate

Anyone needing a certified copy of a Clark County marriage certificate—whether for legal, personal, or genealogical reasons—can obtain it from the Clark County Auditor’s Office. Below are the methods to do so:

In Person

Visit the Auditor’s Recording Department during business hours (usually Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) Provide the names of both spouses and the date of the marriage. Pay the required fee and receive the certified copy on the same visit. The office is situated at:

Clark County Public Service Center
1300 Franklin Street, 
2nd Floor Joint Lobby
Vancouver, WA 98660

By Mail

Complete a Request for Certified Copy form (or write a letter) including the spouses’ names, date of marriage, and any other relevant details. Enclose a check or money order (payable to the Clark County Auditor) for the required fee. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return. Typical processing times can vary, but expect around 1–2 weeks from the date your request is received.

The base fee in Clark County is $3 per certified copy (plus any applicable handling or mailing fees). An extra charge may apply if additional pages are required or if staff must conduct extensive research. Requests may be addressed to:

Clark County Auditor’s Office
Attn: Marriage License Dept
PO Box 5000
Vancouver, WA 98666-5000

Get Marriage Certificate Online in Clark County

While the Clark County Auditor’s Office is the primary source for official marriage certificates, individuals seeking copies of their marriage records can also find various third-party websites that offer online ordering services. However, these websites typically provide “standard” (or informational) copies and may not be able to issue certified copies, which are the legal proof of marriage needed for official purposes such as name changes or insurance benefits.

The base fee for a Clark County standard marriage certificate or copy often starts at $3 per document (as of the county’s posted rates). However, third-party sites typically add processing charges, which may include convenience, platform, or shipping fees. Final costs can differ significantly from county-issued documents.

Find Public Marriage Records Free Online

The Clark County Auditor’s Office offers an online Recorded Documents Search tool that allows individuals to look up marriage records. This portal is accessible via the Clark County website and can be used free of charge for basic searches. Here are some tips for conducting a search:

• Select Document Type: Once on the Recorded Documents Search page, specify “Marriage” or “Marriage License” documents to narrow down the results.
• Search by Names: Enter the names of one or both parties. If unsure of the exact spelling, try different name formats (e.g., maiden names, alternate spellings).
• Date Range: Filter by the date range during which the marriage license was issued or recorded. This is especially useful if searching with approximate dates.
• Document Details: Additional fields, such as book and page number or recording number, may help refine the search.