Demetria Graves | July 11, 2026 | California Law
California has unusual rules when it comes to minors and marriage. Many states have moved to ban marriage under 18 entirely, but California still allows minors to marry in limited circumstances. However, the law requires court involvement before anyone under 18 can receive a marriage license.
Supporters of changing the law argue that marriage under 18 can expose young people to coercion, abuse, financial control, and difficulty leaving the relationship. Others argue that court oversight and parental consent provide enough safeguards in rare cases where marriage may be appropriate.
Is There a Minimum Marriage Age in California?
California does not set a strict minimum marriage age. Instead, a person under 18 may be allowed to marry only if they obtain a required court order and written parental or guardian consent.
Minors may seek permission to marry for several reasons, including:
- Pregnancy or parenting responsibilities
- Religious or cultural beliefs
- Family expectations
- A long-term relationship with a partner
- Financial or housing stability
- Access to spousal benefits, such as health insurance
- A desire for legal independence
The court must review the request before a marriage license can be issued. The judge has discretion to deny permission if the marriage does not appear appropriate or if there are concerns about the minor’s consent to the union and their best interests.
What Does a Minor Need To Get Married in California?
A minor seeking to marry in California generally needs:
- A court order granting permission to marry
- Written consent from at least one parent or legal guardian
- Interviews conducted by Family Court Services (unless an exception applies)
- A certified copy of the court order for the county clerk
Both the minor and the parent or guardian may be required to participate in the court process. The court may also require interviews with the people seeking to marry and may review whether the request is voluntary and appropriate.
The county clerk generally cannot issue the marriage license unless the required court order and consent documents are provided.
Why Does the Court Get Involved?
When one person is under 18, California requires judicial review because minors may be more vulnerable to pressure or may not fully understand the legal consequences of the marriage relationship.
Marriage is a major legal decision. It affects property rights, financial obligations, legal status, inheritance, health care decision-making, and future family law rights. If you have questions about California marriage laws, you may also want to learn more about common law marriage in California.
Persons under 18 are generally not considered legal adults. Therefore, the court must consider whether the minor is acting voluntarily, whether there is coercion or domestic abuse, and whether the marriage appears to be in the minor’s best interests.
Can a Parent Force a Minor to Get Married?
A parent or guardian cannot force a minor to marry. Parental consent is only one part of the process. The court still has to grant permission, and the minor’s own voluntary decision is central to the review.
What Happens if the Court Denies Permission?
If the court denies permission, the minor cannot receive a California marriage license. The couple would not be able to legally marry in California unless the legal requirements are satisfied.
Once both people are 18 or older, the underage marriage rules no longer apply. Adults can generally apply for a marriage license without parental consent or a court order, assuming they meet the standard legal requirements.
Contact an Experienced Pasadena Family Law Attorney at The Graves Law Firm for Legal Help
If you are a minor or a family member of a minor seeking marriage, contact an experienced family law attorney for help. The Graves Law Firm offers confidential consultations to help clients understand their rights. Call now to learn more.
The Graves Law Firm Pasadena
1055 E Colorado Blvd #500a, Pasadena, CA 91101
(626) 365-1037
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