Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DO YOU OBTAIN A MARRIAGE LICENSE?

All couples who intend to get married in New York must obtain a marriage license. You must go online to cityclerk.nyc.gov/content/marriagelicense first to gather the relevant information. Then go on NYC.gov/cupid to set up an appointment for entrance to the City Clerk's office to get your wedding license. Please note that no walk-ins are allowed. Please contact Reverend Ron for any last minute updates regarding the opening of the City Clerk’s office.

MUST I BE A NEW YORK RESIDENT?

No. There are no residence or citizenship requirements to be married in New York.

ARE BLOOD TESTS REQUIRED?

No blood tests are required.

HOW OLD MUST YOU BE?

The legal age to marry is 18 years for both males and females. However, with the written consent of both parents, legal guardian or family court, the male or female may be married at 16 or 17. The parents or guardian do not have to reside in the state. Consent forms may be obtained from the marriage license office.

WILL I NEED PROOF OF AGE?

Yes. A certified copy of a birth certificate must be presented for anyone 18 and under. For anyone 19 and over, proof of age may be requested in the form of an ID or driver's license.

WHAT IF I'VE BEEN DIVORCED?

If you have been divorced within the past six months you’ll need to show the divorce decree at your in-person appointment with the City Clerk’s office.

DO I NEED A LICENSE FOR A VOW RENEWAL CEREMONY?

No. Because you are already married, a vow renewal ceremony is just between you and your spouse.

WHAT DO I DO WITH THE LICENSE?

The three of us will sign your wedding license along with 1 or 2 witnesses of your choice and then you will mail it back to the address that the City Clerk’s office provided you.

WHAT NAMES MUST WE TAKE AFTER THE WEDDING?

That's entirely up to you. You will make that decision when you are filling out your wedding license application online.