How to Get a One-Day Marriage Officiant License in NYC or NYS

Imagine having your best friend or sibling officiate your wedding, delivering a heartfelt ceremony tailored just for you. In NYC, this dream can become a reality—without them needing to become permanently ordained. Thanks to the One-Day Marriage Officiant License, your loved one can legally marry you and your partner for one special day.

Whether your goal is a more personal ceremony or simply avoiding the process of finding a professional officiant, this guide will walk you through every step of obtaining and using a One-Day Marriage Officiant License in New York City, including the application process, requirements, and FAQs.

friend of bride and groom officiating marriage ceremony outdoors nyc new york state

What Is a One-Day Marriage Officiant License in New York?

The One-Day Marriage Officiant License is a short-term legal authorization that allows a person to officiate a single wedding ceremony in New York. Unlike traditional ordination, this license is valid for one specific event, making it perfect for loved ones who may not want a long-term commitment as an officiant.

Why Is This a Big Deal?

Before 2022, individuals who wanted to officiate a wedding typically had to be ordained by organizations like Universal Life Church (ULC) or American Marriage Ministries (AMM). With the new law signed by Governor Hochul, individuals now have a simpler option for officiating a wedding without permanent ordination.

Is It Limited to NYC or All of NYS?

The law applies to all of New York State (NYS), not just New York City. This means residents anywhere in NYS can take advantage of this opportunity, provided the wedding is happening within the state.

Why Choose a One-Day License?

Choosing the One-Day Marriage Officiant License has several benefits:

Simplicity: It’s designed for one-time use, perfect for friends or family members who don’t plan to officiate other weddings.
Personal Touch: A loved one officiating your ceremony adds a meaningful, intimate vibe to your wedding.
No Long-Term Commitment: Unlike ordination, which is permanent, this option is temporary and straightforward.

One-Day License vs. Online Ordination: Which Is Right for You?

Both options allow a loved one to officiate your wedding, but they serve different purposes:

Choose the One-Day License if your loved one plans to officiate just your ceremony.
Choose Online Ordination if they want the flexibility to officiate other weddings in the future. To learn more about online ordination and how to become an ordained wedding officiant in NYC, check out this detailed guide.

How to Get a One-Day Marriage Officiant License

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you or your chosen officiant navigate the process:

1. Check Eligibility

Must be at least 18 years old.
Must apply for the license in the same jurisdiction where the wedding will take place.

2. Complete the Application

Visit the website of the City Clerk or Town Clerk where the wedding will occur. For example, if the wedding is in NYC, you’ll need to apply through the NYC City Clerk’s website.

Provide details about the couple (names, wedding date, and location).
Submit a valid government-issued photo ID.

3. Pay the Fee

Fees vary by jurisdiction but are typically between $25 and $35.

4. Wait for Approval

The approval process usually takes a few business days, but it’s best to apply at least a month before the wedding to avoid any last-minute stress.

Step 5: Receive the License

Once approved, the One-Day Marriage Officiant License will be issued. The applicant must bring the license to the wedding and use it to officiate the ceremony.

Using the One-Day License to Officiate a Wedding

After receiving the license, the officiant is ready to perform the ceremony. On the wedding day, they will:

Conduct the ceremony, ensuring all legal requirements (e.g., declarations of intent) are met.
Sign the marriage license along with the couple and witnesses.
File the completed marriage license with the NYC City Clerk’s office within five days of the ceremony.

How Does This Compare to Ordination?

If your chosen officiant plans to perform multiple weddings in the future, ordination through organizations like ULC or AMM might be a better option. Learn more about the ordination process in our detailed step-by-step guide.

Important Post-Ceremony Step

After officiating, the marriage license must be signed and returned to the issuing clerk’s office within five days of the ceremony. This step ensures the marriage is legally recognized.

FAQs About the One-Day Marriage Officiant License

1. Can anyone apply for a One-Day Marriage Officiant License in NYS? Yes, as long as they meet the minimum age requirement of 18 and apply in the jurisdiction where the wedding will take place.

2. How long does it take to get the license? Typically, approval takes a few business days, but it’s best to apply at least a month before the wedding date.

3. Is this option available outside NYC? Yes! The law applies to all of New York State, not just NYC. Check with your local Town or City Clerk for application details.

4. Can the license be reused for other weddings? No, the license is valid for one specific wedding ceremony.

5. How much does the license cost? Fees vary by location, but it’s generally between $25 and $35.

6. What happens if the marriage license isn’t filed on time? If the officiant fails to return the signed marriage license to the issuing clerk’s office within five days, the marriage will not be legally recognized.

Make Your Ceremony Memorable

Having a loved one officiate your wedding creates a unique and unforgettable experience. By going through the steps to get their One-Day Marriage Officiant License from New York or become ordained, this will add a deeply personal touch to your special day and create memories that you both will remember fondly for a long time.

If you have questions about the process or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Five Star Officiants. We’re here to make your wedding planning smooth and stress-free!