How to Become a Wedding Officiant in NYC to Marry Friends or Family
- Five Star Officiants
- Oct 5, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 26
Planning your wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming, but what if you could add a personal touch by having a friend or family member officiate? Thanks to recent legislation in New York passed in 2022, your friend or family member can now legally solemnize your wedding, making the ceremony even more meaningful!
Want a Friend to Officiate Your NYC Wedding? Here’s How!
Whether they want to officiate multiple weddings in the future or just your ceremony, there are two ways your loved one can become a legal wedding officiant in NYC:
Ordination through organizations like Universal Life Church (ULC) or American Marriage Ministries (AMM)
Each option has unique benefits, depending on whether your loved one plans to officiate multiple weddings or just yours. This step-by-step guide will help you understand both options and take the necessary steps to make your loved one legally authorized to marry you and your partner on your special day.
Two Ways to Legally Officiate a Wedding in NYC
When it comes to officiating a wedding in NYC, your loved one has two main options to become legally authorized:
Option 1: Ordination Through Online Organizations This is the most common route for individuals who want to officiate multiple weddings or prefer a long-term solution. Organizations like Universal Life Church (ULC) and American Marriage Ministries (AMM) offer free and straightforward online ordination. Once ordained, the individual will receive credentials, including a certificate and letter of good standing, which are necessary for officiant registration in NYC.
Option 2: One-Day Marriage Officiant License in NYC For a single wedding ceremony, New York offers the option of a One-Day Marriage Officiant License. This allows a friend or family member over the age of 18 to officiate your wedding without needing permanent ordination. The process involves applying for a 'one-day designation' license through the NYC City Clerk and providing specific details about the couple and the ceremony.
Curious about this short-term option? Read our full guide to the One-Day Marriage Officiant License in NYC for step-by-step instructions.
Why Choose a Loved One as Your Officiant?
Imagine standing before your family and friends, exchanging vows while someone who knows your love story officiates the ceremony. It adds a heartfelt touch that reflects your journey together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to involve loved ones and create lasting memories.
Getting Ordained: A Simple Guide
If you’re ready to ask someone close to you to officiate your wedding, here’s how they can get ordained:
a. Choose an Online Ordination Service Many organizations offer online ordination services, making it super easy. Check out Universal Life Church and American Marriage Ministries for a straightforward application process.
b. Complete the Application Your chosen officiant will fill out an online application with their personal details. It usually takes just a few minutes!
c. Receive Ordination Credentials After processing, they’ll receive their ordination credentials, including a certificate and letter of good standing. It’s important to keep these documents safe for the marriage registration process.
Registering as an Officiant in NYC
If your loved one opts for ordination, they’ll need to also register as a marriage officiant with the NYC City Clerk to legally perform the ceremony. The process includes:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents:
They’ll need two character references, a valid ID, and their ordination credentials (certificate and letter of good standing).
Step 2: Submit the Application:
The NYC City Clerk's website provides all necessary forms, including a notary requirement.
Step 3: Pay Applicable Fees:
A small fee applies.
Alternatively, if your loved one prefers the One-Day Marriage Officiant License route, the registration process is simpler but only valid for a single ceremony. This option is ideal for those who don’t want long-term officiant status.
Need more details on this temporary license? Check out our dedicated guide on the One-Day Marriage Officiant License in NYC.
Filing Paperwork After the Wedding to Make Your Marriage Official: A Critical Step
After officiating your wedding, your friend or family member will need to file some paperwork to make your marriage official! They must complete the marriage license and return it to the city clerk's office within five days of the ceremony. This step ensures that your marriage is legally recognized, so it's crucial not to miss the window!
Ready to Make Your Wedding Day Unforgettable?
Having a friend or family member officiate your wedding adds a personal touch that you and your guests will cherish forever. Whether you choose to have them ordained or apply for a One-Day Marriage Officiant License, both options are meaningful ways to personalize your ceremony.
Preparing for the Ceremony
Once ordained and registered, it’s time to get creative! Your officiant should:
Discuss the Ceremony Details: Talk about the couple’s vision, preferred vows, and any special traditions they want to include.
Practice the Ceremony: A rehearsal can help ease nerves and make sure everyone is on the same page for the big day.
Making It Personal
Encourage your officiant to inject some personality into the ceremony. Sharing stories about your relationship, using meaningful quotes, or creating unique rituals can make your wedding unforgettable for you and your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Wedding Officiant in NYC
1. Can my friend officiate my NYC wedding without being ordained?
Yes! They can apply for a One-Day Marriage Officiant License through the NYC City Clerk, which allows them to officiate a single ceremony without requiring ordination.
2. How long does it take to get a One-Day Marriage Officiant License in NYC?
The process is relatively quick. Once the application is submitted with the required details and payment, approval typically takes a few business days. However, it’s best to apply well in advance of your wedding date to avoid delays and last-minute surprises.
3. Is online ordination legal in NYC?
Yes, online ordination from organizations like Universal Life Church (ULC) or American Marriage Ministries (AMM) is legally recognized in NYC. After ordination, your friend or family member must register as a wedding officiant with the NYC City Clerk.
4. Can someone under 18 officiate a wedding in NYC?
No, officiants must be at least 18 years old to legally perform weddings in New York City.
5. How much does it cost to become a wedding officiant in NYC?
Online Ordination: Often free, but some organizations charge for official documents like certificates.
One-Day License: The fee for this license is set by the NYC City Clerk and is typically around $25-$35.
Officiant Registration: If registering permanently, the fee is approximately $15.
6. What happens if the marriage license isn’t filed on time?
If the officiant does not file the completed marriage license with the city clerk within five days of the ceremony, the marriage will not be legally recognized. It’s crucial to complete this step promptly!
At Five Star Officiants, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you choose a friend, family member, or a professional officiant, we’ll help make your wedding day unforgettable. Contact us today if you have any questions!
