Couples that get married in New York must obtain a ‘Marriage License’ from the “Office of the City Clerk : Marriage Bureau”. You’ll find this very official sounding building at 141 Worth Street in Manhattan, and they’re open Monday through Friday from 8.30am to 3.45pm, except on major holidays. Be sure to check the legal holiday schedule before you go if you’re from out of town.
Sometimes, the wait time at the City Clerk’s office can be long. But there’s a silver lining, because you can speed up the process by beginning filling out the application for the license online. You then have to complete the application in person at the City Clerk’s office. Remember to take valid identification with you, too. Simple! Plus, for the time you’re waiting, you’ll be able to soak in the excitement around you – you’re all here for one thing after all, and it’s part of the experience when you elope to NYC!
At $35 for the license, it’s pretty epic value for the biggest commitment of your lives. And for those who like to be prepared, you can pay via credit card or money order, payable to the City Clerk. Once your license is granted, you’ve got 60 days to say I do anywhere your heart desires in the state of New York. How cool is that?!
For couples where one or both of you has been married before, be ready with the details. You’ll need to list all prior marriages, including the date and place your divorce decree was granted.
Yes, before this New York City officiant can make it official. You must wait a minimum of 24 hours after obtaining your marriage license before you can have your wedding. Once the 24 hours have passed, let’s get you two hitched! Now, as with all things, there is an exception to this rule, and that’s if you have a Judicial Waiver. But that’s a whole other set of paperwork. So, unless it’s essential, we’d encourage you to enjoy an extra 24 hours in the city!
After helping hundreds of couples get married, I have many resources and recommendations to help make all your planning easier. I make it my mission to keep in the good books of some of NYC’s best vendors and give you the inside scoop on awesome suppliers to choose. And if you really believe in the power of love, then you’ll definitely want that working for you on your wedding day. My husband, a highly sought after wedding & elopement photographer, and I work on many weddings together. Take a look at his work at www.saschareinking.com to see if hiring your New York City officiant and photographer as a team might be a better option for you.
Also, check out – and subscribe to – our YouTube Channel where we walk you through the license application process. Plus, a host of ideas and inspiration for all-things getting married in New York City. Are you ready for it?
What if the person who married you, on your most memorable day, in the best city in the world was a mix of your best friend or sister, a shoulder to lean on, a kick-ass professional, and on top of that…hilarious? Wouldn’t that be ‘off the hook’ amazing?!
“So this is love. So this is what makes life divine.”
—Cinderella
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jackie@jackiereinking.com
New York City Wedding Officiant & Celebrant
646.456.4555
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