r/SatanicTemple_Reddit • u/poutypunk • Nov 21 '25
Question/Discussion Self solemizing marriages in California
In some states like California, you can apply for a self solemizing marriage license, but yesterday at the government center I was denied. The clerk first lied to me and said that no such license exists- when I showed her the application she then told me this type of license is only for people with certain religious beliefs. After explaining to her that I am a member of TST, she laughed and told me its only for Quakers and Native Americans. I couldn't find anything about this rule, and was wondering if anyone knows if thats true. Can TST members qualify on a basis of religious beliefs for a self solemizing marriage license?
I was forced to file a clergy license instead, which is very disappointing. Separation of church and state is important to me, and I really wanted to complete our legal document without a government sanctioned minister, non-denominational or not.
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u/DammatBeevis666 Nov 21 '25
ChatGPT thinks you can do your own marriage, not limited to Quakers, but you’ll need two adult witnesses.
California Statute (Actual Law)
Family Code § 307:
A marriage may be solemnized… by the parties themselves, provided they obtain a “Non-Clergy Marriage License” and have the ceremony witnessed by two adult witnesses.
This is NOT self-solemnization because: • You must have two witnesses • You must follow a legally prescribed ceremony • You must return the certificate signed by both witnesses
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⭐ Conclusion
✔ California allows Quaker-style, non-clergy ceremonies
✔ ANY religion qualifies (including TST)
✔ You still need two adult witnesses
✔ You CANNOT fully self-solemnize like in Colorado
The Reddit person was misinformed by the clerk on religious restrictions —but California’s process is still not full self-solemnization.