For many couples, getting married in New York City (NYC) would be a dream come true. There are many fantastic venues available, and you can access a variety of wedding planners and other types of support to make your big day exactly what you pictured. But before you get married, you’ll need to obtain a New York marriage license. Fortunately, the process is reasonably straightforward. If you need an NYC marriage license, here’s what you need to know.
Who Can Get a New York Marriage License?
In New York, only adults aged 18 and up can get married. While minors as young as 16 were previously allowed to wed with parental consent and those as young as 14 could get married with court permission, a law issued in 2021 increased the age to 18 across the board. There is no form of consent or permission that can circumvent that rule.
You don’t need to reside in the state to get a New York marriage license. However, you do need to provide any required information and documentation.
What You Need to Provide to Apply
When you apply for a New York marriage license, there’s specific information and documentation you’ll need to provide. First, you’ll have to enter in personal data on each prospective spouse. That includes full names, current addresses, Social Security Numbers, countries of birth, parents’ names, and parents’ country of birth. Additionally, you’ll need to provide details about any past marriages.
For documentation, both spouses must provide an acceptable form of ID that isn’t currently expired. State IDs, driver’s licenses, or learner permits work as long as they have a photograph. Military identification, permanent resident cards, and employment authorization cards are also accepted, as well as passports.
Where to Apply for a New York City Marriage License
If you want to get a marriage license in New York City, you have two options. First, you can complete the process virtually through the Project Cupid website. Simply select the “Marriage License (virtual)” option, complete the application, get a confirmation number, verify the identity of both parties, schedule the online meeting, and pay the required fee.
Second, you can head to the Office of the City Clerk – NYC Marriage Bureau. At this time, walk-in visits aren’t an option, so you’ll need to set an appointment. You can do so online through the Project Cupid website, and make sure to go to the City Clerk Online site before your appointment to begin the application process.
How Long Does It Take to Get a New York Marriage License?
Getting a marriage license in New York is a relatively quick process. Once you submit an application and meet with the right employee, you can typically receive your marriage license the same day.
Once you have the marriage license, it’s valid for 60 days (180 days for active duty military). You can also use a New York marriage license anywhere in New York State, so you don’t have to get the license specifically in the city or county where you intend to marry.
NYC Marriage License Waiting Period
In New York City and New York State, the marriage license waiting period is 24 hours. That 24 hours begins once the marriage license is obtained and is not based on when you initially start filling out the application.
However, it’s possible to get the 24-hour waiting period waived by a judge or New York State Supreme Court justice. When you wed, the waiver must be provided to the marriage officiant before they perform the ceremony.
Do You Need a Witness When Getting Married in New York?
If you’re getting married in New York, you need to have at least one witness. The witness must be at least 18 years old and must have proper identification – such as those required of the parties getting married during the marriage license application process – to confirm their identity. Officiants cannot serve as the witness.
Usually, the chosen witness is a family member or friend. However, practically anyone can work as a witness as long as they meet the requirements above.
Additionally, some wedding planning services – particularly those that focus on micro-weddings – may be able to provide a witness if you don’t have one available. This option is especially convenient for elopements, but you’ll need to check to confirm a service provider can help you fill this role in advance as a precaution.
Who Files the New York Marriage Certificate?
After you get married, the New York marriage certificate needs to be filed with the Office of the City Clerk. You can do so by mail, but some officiants may also handle this step for you. It’s wise to speak with your officiant in advance to determine whether they’ll send in the completed and signed marriage certificate, ensuring you know whether that responsibility falls on you in advance.
How Do You Get Proof of Marriage?
If you need a copy of your marriage certificate, you can request one from the City Clerk at the same office where you submitted your original marriage license application. You can complete the application and schedule an appointment to deliver it in person or send it in by mail. You’ll also need to pay the appropriate fee, which can vary depending on the type of proof of message you require. Additional details for an NYC marriage certificate are available online through the Office of the City Clerk.
Do you have any additional information that makes it easier for couples to get a New York marriage license? Did you get an NYC marriage license recently and want to let others know about your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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