How to Get Your Marriage License in New York State: A Guide from J Costello Wedding Officiants
Planning your big day? One of the most important (and often overlooked) steps in making your marriage legal is getting your marriage license. Whether you’re eloping, planning a pop-up wedding, or preparing for a full celebration, here’s everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in New York State—straight from your friends at J Costello Wedding Officiants.
💍 First Things First: What Is a Marriage License?
Your marriage license is the legal document that gives you permission to get married. Without it, your officiant can’t legally perform your ceremony, and your marriage won’t be recognized by the state. (Yes, even if you had the dreamiest ceremony of all time!)
📝 How to Apply
You and your partner must both apply in person at any town or city clerk’s office in New York State. You don’t need to apply in the same city or county where you’re getting married. The license is valid anywhere in the state.
What to Bring:
- Photo ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID)
- Birth certificate (needs to be the original, not a photo copy)
- $40 fee (varies slightly by location; some may charge up to $50, so call ahead or check the office’s website)
If you’ve been married before, you’ll also need:
- Proof of divorce or death certificate of your former spouse
⏳ Waiting Period & Expiration
- Waiting period: 24 hours
Once your license is issued, you must wait 24 hours before your ceremony can legally take place. - Expiration: 60 days
Your license is valid for 60 days. Be sure to plan your application accordingly—don’t get it too early or too late!
💡 Quick Tips from Your Officiant
- Double-check office hours. Most clerk’s offices are closed on weekends and holidays.
- Don’t forget your ID. Both of you need to be present and bring the required documentation.
- We’ll file it for you. After your ceremony, your officiant signs the license, and we will mail it back to your Town Clerk’s Office.
📍Where to Apply
Find your local city or town clerk’s office here:
🔗 NY Marriage License Clerk Directory
🕊️ One Last Thing…
At J Costello Wedding Officiants, we’ve worked with hundreds of couples across New York and know how meaningful this moment is. We’re here to guide you every step of the way—legal paperwork included! So when you’re ready to say “I do,” know that we’re just as committed to making your marriage official as we are to making your ceremony unforgettable.
Happy planning!
— Your team at J Costello Wedding Officiants
Photo Credit: C R PHOTOS – See Our Photos: Rochester NY Wedding photographers
