2.How to get a Marriage License?

Introduction:

All persons who intend to get married in New York State must obtain a Marriage License. This page explains the procedure for obtaining a Marriage License from the Office of the New York City Clerk.

Fee
The fee for a Marriage License is $35 by credit card or money order payable to the City Clerk.

Duration of the Marriage License
A New York State Marriage License is valid for 60 days (except for active military personnel, for whom the validity runs for 180 days). A Marriage License issued in New York can be used anywhere within New York State but may not be used outside New York State.

Application Procedure
Listed below are the general steps and rules of the application process.

• You can begin the application process to receive a Marriage License online via "City Clerk Online". This will speed up the process which then must be completed in person at the Office of the City Clerk. 

• Regardless of whether you started the application process online, or will be filling out a paper form for a Marriage License, you and your prospective spouse must complete the process by appearing at the Office of the City Clerk in person, together and at the same time.

• Proxy marriage is not permitted in New York, so no other party may apply on behalf of either spouse.

• You will receive the application from the information desk and you must complete the application in our office.

• Your Marriage License will be processed while you wait.

• You should carefully read your Marriage License to make sure there are no mistakes.

• You will take the Marriage License with you when you leave our office.

• You must wait a full 24 hours before your Marriage Ceremony can be performed unless you obtain a Judicial Waiver.