Steps to Getting Married in New York

New York is a wonderful state and you have everything at your finger tips. Why not get married here? To do so you need the following information:

STEP 1: You must apply for a marriage license at any town or city clerk in the state.
Both the bride and groom must appear in person, no proxies.

The ceremony cannot take place within 24 hours from the exact time the license was issued.

The license is valid for 60 days, beginning after the day it is issued.

The fee is $35-$40

A Marriage License issued in New York can be used anywhere within New York State but cannot be used outside New York State.

When you apply for the marriage license you must bring with you proof of age and identity. Accepted documents are:

- Birth Certificate
- Baptismal Record
- Naturalization record
- Census Record

AND One of the Following:

- Driver’s License
- Passport
- Employment Picture ID
- Immigration Record

A blood test is not required to obtain a marriage license in New York.

STEP 2: Have the ceremony. Destination weddings are great but if you are concerned with the legality of an out of country marriage it may be beneficial to have a civil ceremony. Here are the steps to follow to having a civil ceremony:

You can attend the local City Clerk’s office to have a civil ceremony.
No appointments or reservations required.

The ceremony is performed during normal business hours.

Bride and groom must appear together with the same identity information used to obtain the marriage license.

Have your marriage license.
You must have at least one witness, over the age of 18 and they must bring proper identification.

You will receive a Certificate of Marriage Registration that is the official document for your wedding.

Congratulations!