What you need to do to legally marry people
To legally marry people, you need a credential that your state recognizes — usually called being ordained or commissioned as an officiant. This is separate from a driver's license and has nothing to do with the DMV. The path depends on which state you live in, because each state sets its own rules about who can solemnize (legally perform) a marriage.
Most states let you become an officiant through one of three routes: ordination by a religious organization, a one-time commission from your county clerk, or registration with a church or ministry that the state recognizes. Some states have no formal requirement at all — they let anyone the couple chooses stand up and say the vows, as long as someone files the paperwork afterward. The fastest route is usually your county clerk's office, which can tell you in one phone call what your state actually requires.
Key Takeaways
- Each state sets its own rules about who can marry people, so the first step is calling your county clerk to learn what your state requires.
- Most states recognize ordination through religious organizations, one-time county commissions, or registration with established churches or ministries.
- Some states have no formal requirement and let the couple choose anyone to perform the ceremony as long as the paperwork is filed correctly.
- The paperwork you file after the ceremony — the marriage license and certificate — must be signed by someone your state recognizes as an officiant.
- Online ordination through churches or ministries works in most states, but you should confirm your state accepts it before paying any fees.
The three main paths to becoming an officiant
The first path is ordination through a religious organization. If you are already part of a church, synagogue, mosque, or other faith community, that organization may ordain you directly. The process and requirements vary widely — some require formal training or education, others require only membership and a request. You would contact your religious leader or the organization's administrative office to ask about ordination. Once ordained, you are recognized in most states as someone who can perform marriages.
The second path is a one-time commission from your county clerk. Many counties let you request a temporary or permanent commission to perform a specific marriage or marriages in general. You typically fill out a form, sometimes pay a small fee (usually under $50), and the clerk issues you a commission. This is the fastest route if your state offers it — you can often get it the same day or within a few days. Call your county clerk's office and ask whether they issue marriage officiant commissions and what the process is.
The third path is ordination through an online or mail-based ministry. Organizations like the Universal Life Church, American Marriage Ministries, and others offer ordination that many states recognize. You fill out a form online, sometimes pay a fee (typically $0 to $50), and receive credentials. However, not every state recognizes every organization, so you must confirm that your state accepts ordination from the specific ministry before you pay.
How to find out what your state requires
Your county clerk's office is the official source for what your state and county accept. Call them and ask: "What do I need to do to become authorized to perform marriages in this county?" They can tell you whether your state requires ordination, a commission, registration, or nothing at all. They can also tell you which organizations they recognize and whether online ordination will work where you live.
If you cannot reach your county clerk by phone, visit their website — most have a section on marriage licenses that explains who can perform ceremonies. Some states also post this information on the state vital records office website. Write down the specific requirement your state names, because you will need it when you choose your path.
Getting ordained through a religious organization
If you belong to a church or faith community, start by talking to your religious leader — a pastor, rabbi, imam, priest, or other clergy member. Ask what ordination means in your tradition and what steps you need to take. Some organizations ordain people quickly with minimal requirements; others require classes, a period of study, or demonstrated commitment to the faith. There is no single timeline.
Once you are ordained, ask your religious leader for written proof — a certificate, letter, or credential that states you are ordained and authorized to perform marriages. You will need this document when you file the marriage license after the ceremony. Keep it somewhere safe, because you may need to show it to the couple, the county clerk, or others.
Getting a county commission
Contact your county clerk's office and ask for a marriage officiant commission process. Some counties call it different names — a "marriage solemnizer commission," "temporary marriage officiant authorization," or "marriage license to solemnize." The process is usually short and asks for your name, address, and sometimes a reason you want to perform marriages.
Most counties charge a small fee, though some do not. The fee is typically a one-time payment that covers either a single ceremony or all ceremonies you perform for a set period (often one to five years). Once approved, the clerk will issue you a certificate or letter stating you are authorized to perform marriages. This document is your proof when you sign the marriage license after the ceremony.
Getting ordained online or by mail
If you choose an online ministry, start by confirming that your state recognizes it. Call your county clerk and ask: "Does my state accept ordination from [the organization's name]?" If they say yes, you can proceed. If they are unsure, ask them which organizations they do recognize, or ask whether they accept "Universal Life Church" ordination specifically — that is the most widely recognized online ministry.
Once you have confirmed your state accepts the organization, visit their website and follow their ordination process. Most ask you to fill out a form with your name and address, agree to their terms, and sometimes pay a fee. You will receive credentials — usually a certificate you can print, and sometimes a physical certificate mailed to you. Keep this document, because you will need to show it when you sign the marriage license.
What happens after you are authorized
Once you have your credential — whether it is ordination, a commission, or online credentials — you can perform marriages in your state. When a couple asks you to marry them, you will conduct the ceremony however you choose. At the end, you sign the marriage license as the officiant. The couple and any witnesses also sign it, and then someone (usually the couple) files it with the county clerk within the important date set by your state (often 10 days).
Your credential is proof that you were authorized to sign that license. If the county clerk questions whether you were authorized, you show them your ordination certificate, commission letter, or online credentials. This is why keeping your credential document safe is important — you may need it years later if there is ever a question about whether the marriage was legally performed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I perform marriages in a state where I do not live?
It depends on the state. Some states recognize ordination from anywhere; others only recognize ordination or commissions issued in that state. If you want to perform a marriage in a state where you do not live, call that state's county clerk and ask what they require. You may need to get a commission in that county specifically.
Do I need to be religious to become an officiant?
No. Many states and counties issue commissions to anyone who requests one, regardless of religious belief. Online ministries also ordain people of all faiths and no faith. However, some religious organizations have their own requirements about who they will ordain, so if you want ordination through a specific faith community, ask them about their rules.
What if the couple wants me to perform a ceremony but I am not yet authorized?
You can still perform the ceremony — the couple can choose anyone to say the vows. However, someone authorized to sign the marriage license must sign it afterward. That could be a different person, or you could get your credential before the ceremony so you can sign it yourself. Talk to the couple about the timeline and decide together.
How much does it cost to become an officiant?
County commissions usually cost under $50 and sometimes are free. Online ordination typically costs $0 to $50. Religious ordination through a church or faith community may be free or may require membership dues or donations, depending on the organization. Call your county clerk or contact the organization you are interested in for exact fees.
Do I need to renew my officiant credential?
It depends on what you have. A county commission may need to be renewed every few years — ask your clerk. Religious ordination usually does not expire. Online ordination credentials typically do not expire, but some organizations ask you to renew your registration periodically. Check the terms when you get your credential.