New York City, with its iconic skyline and bustling energy, continues to be a dream wedding destination for many couples. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony in Central Park, a lavish affair in a luxury hotel, or a trendy celebration in a chic rooftop venue, the Big Apple offers endless possibilities for tying the knot. If you're considering saying "I do" in New York City in 2024, here's your comprehensive guide to making your dream wedding a reality.
In this article:
How to get marriage license in New York?
How much does marriage license in New York cost?
What is waiting period to get married in New York?
What are required information to get married in New York?
Where do you get a marriage license in New York?
How to apply for your marriage license online?
How to apply for your marriage license offline, in New York city?
How to have a civil marriage ceremony in the City Clerk's Office?
How to have a wedding ceremony outside of City Clerk's Office?
What to do after wedding ceremony?
Pro tips and bonuses
Start with a marriage license.
Wedding ceremony in Ladies Pavilion, central Park
Getting married in New York State requires obtaining a Marriage License, a process overseen by the Office of the New York City Clerk. Here's a breakdown of the procedure:
1. Apply for the Marriage License:
The fee for a Marriage License is $35, payable by credit card or money order to the City Clerk.
Both you and your prospective spouse must complete the application process together, either in person at the City Clerk's office or virtually.
2. What documents do you need to obtain a marriage license in New York City?
Before starting the application process, it's essential to gather all the necessary paperwork. The application itself functions as an affidavit, requiring both you and your fiancé(e) to affirm that there are no legal barriers to your marriage.
If you plan to change your name, whether your surname or middle name, you must indicate this on the application. This change becomes effective immediately following your marriage ceremony.
When completing the application, ensure you have the following information available for both you and your fiancé(e):
Full name and current address
Country of birth
Date of birth
Names and countries of birth of your parents
Social security numbers
Details of any previous marriages, including dates and locations of divorce decrees or, if applicable, the full name and date of death of a former spouse
Additionally, you'll need to present valid forms of identification that include proof of age and a photograph. Acceptable forms of ID may include:
IDNYC
Passport
Driver's License or Learner Permit with a photograph (issued in the United States or its territories)
Non-Driver Identification Card with a photograph (issued in the United States or its territories)
Active United States Military Identification Card
United States Certificate of Naturalization (valid for ten years after issuance)
United States Permanent Resident Card
United States Employment Authorization Card
Ensuring you have all the necessary documentation will streamline the application process and help facilitate the issuance of your marriage license.
3. Attend the Appointment:
Proxy marriage is not allowed in New York, so both parties must appear for the appointment.
Your Marriage License application will be processed during this appointment.
4. Review the Marriage License:
Carefully check the Marriage License for accuracy before leaving the office or receiving it digitally.
Any errors should be corrected before proceeding.
5. Waiting Period:
There is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before the Marriage Ceremony, unless a Judicial Waiver is obtained.
Contact the NYS Supreme Court for information on obtaining a judicial waiver.
6. Required Information for Application:
Previous marital history must be disclosed, including details of prior marriages and divorces.
Finalized divorces, annulments, or dissolutions must be completed before applying for a new Marriage License.
Documentation such as divorce decrees may be required.
If a spouse is deceased, their full name and date of death must be provided.
By following these steps and providing accurate information, you can ensure a smooth process for obtaining your Marriage License in New York City.
Where do you get a marriage license in NYC?
To get a marriage license in NYC, you will need to schedule an in-person appointment for you and your future spouse to visit an NYC Marriage Bureau at the Office of the City Clerk. There are five locations in New York City.
City Clerk Office Locations and Hours:
Bronx Office
Hours:
Monday through Friday,
8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Supreme Court Building
851 Grand Concourse, Room B131Bronx, NY 10451
Brooklyn Office
Hours:
Monday through Friday,
8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Brooklyn Municipal Building
210 Joralemon Street, Room 205Brooklyn, NY 11201
Manhattan Office
Hours:
Monday through Friday,
8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
141 Worth StreetNew York, NY 10013
Queens Office
Hours:
Monday through Friday,
8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Borough Hall Building
120-55 Queens Boulevard, Ground Floor, Room G-100Kew Gardens, NY 11424
Staten Island Office
Hours:
Monday through
Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Borough Hall Building
10 Richmond Terrace, Room 311,Staten Island, NY 10301
Now let us explain how to obtain your marriage license, either way, offline and online.
If you want to do it offline in City Clerk's Office, please follow this steps
Go to the https://www.cityclerk.nyc.gov/content/ and click PROJECT CUPID button
Then click Marriage License(in-person)
After that you need to choose the location, the nearest City Clerk's Office to you
Then choose the time that will be most convenient for you
After that you need to fill out the information for Spouse A and B
And as final get your confirmation number
Requirements for Your Appointment
A Marriage License is valid for 60 days, please be sure the above appointment date is within 60 days of your planned marriage ceremony.
You should arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment for building prescreening and security procedures. Late arrivals may not be admitted. Please bring the below to your appointment:
If previously married, bring all supporting documentation noted below
The Marriage License fee of $35 payable to the City Clerk by credit card or money order
Printed or electronic copy of this confirmation or your appointment email
Printed or electronic copy of online application confirmation number
City Clerk's Office reserve the right to cancel duplicate appointments
2. Wedding ceremony
There are various ways to tie the knot in the vibrant streets of NYC. Couples have the flexibility to hire an officiant and exchange vows at almost any desired location. However, for a straightforward and intimate ceremony you also can tie the knot in City Clerk's Office.
Let's take a look on this two types pf wedding ceremony:
Getting married at City Hall
Excellent! Here's what you need to do next:
Schedule Your Marriage Ceremony: Contact the City Clerk's Office to schedule your marriage ceremony. After the mandatory 24-hour waiting period, gather your essentials for the ceremony.
What to Bring: Bring your marriage license, valid identification, and at least one witness. If you need a witness, I'd be delighted to assist—just give me a heads-up so I can bring my ID.
Fee and Payment Options: The ceremony fee at the City Clerk's Office is $25. You can pay this fee by credit card or money order, payable to the City Clerk.
Timing and Availability: Ceremonies are conducted during regular business hours, from 8:30 AM to 3:45 PM. Ensure you allocate enough time for the ceremony within these hours.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your marriage ceremony at the City Clerk's Office.
We highly advise avoiding scheduling ceremonies during peak times like lunch hours, Valentine’s Day, or easily memorable dates (such as 02.04.2024). While waiting for your turn at the City Clerk’s Office, take a moment to observe the diverse array of couples passing by—it's quite an entertaining spectacle. When your number is called, you'll proceed to either the East or West Chapel, where one of the officiants will swiftly conduct your ceremony. Be prepared, as the ceremony itself typically lasts no more than 90 seconds—it's quick! After exchanging vows, you'll receive your 'Certificate of Marriage' from the officiant, marking the official beginning of your marital journey. Then, it's time to celebrate!
Getting married outside of City Hall
Opting for a wedding ceremony outside the City Clerk’s Office offers even more flexibility and personalization. To make it happen, simply enlist the services of a registered marriage officiant and coordinate a date, time, and location that suits your preferences. With an officiant, you're not confined to the office's business hours or availability; you can say "I do" anytime, anywhere in the city, 24/7, 365 days a year.
Whether you envision exchanging vows amidst the natural beauty of Central Park, atop the iconic 'Top of the Rock,' or along the scenic 'High Line Park,' the choice is entirely yours. Your wedding can take place wherever your heart desires, so let your imagination run wild. Once you've finalized the details, ensure you have your marriage license, proper identification, and at least one witness (I'm more than happy to serve as your witness, just give me a heads-up so I can bring my ID). Then, you're all set to celebrate your special day in the location of your dreams.
3. After wedding ceremony
Following the ceremony, the officiant will guide you and your witness through signing the marriage license, taking care of the necessary paperwork on your behalf by returning it to the City Clerk's office. Expect to receive your 'Certificate of Marriage' by mail within 6 to 8 weeks from your wedding date.
Here are some additional tips to enhance your experience:
Embrace the NYC Vibes: Take a deep breath and soak in the vibrant energy of New York City. With its dynamic atmosphere, your elopement is bound to be an unforgettable adventure.
Local Insights: If you're taking the subway to the City Clerk's office, the closest stations are the 4, 5, and 6 lines ('Brooklyn Bridge – City Hall' stop), the R ('City Hall' stop), and the 2 and 3 lines ('Park Place' stop).
Last-Minute Bouquets: While you can purchase flowers inside the City Clerk's office (not recommended), a better option is the flower stand usually found just outside. For a guaranteed beautiful bouquet, consider reaching out to me for contacts to reliable florists.
Facilities: Rest assured, there are bathrooms available inside the City Clerk's office for your convenience.
Refreshments and Souvenirs: Unfortunately, beverages are not sold at the Clerk's office, but you can indulge in some NYC flair with souvenirs like "I got married in New York" magnets, T-shirts, and mugs, available in the lobby.
Connect with US: If you have any further questions or need assistance with your elopement planning, don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to ensure your special day is seamless and unforgettable. As someone who has experienced the magic of eloping in New York City firsthand, we are thrilled to bring that same enchantment to your celebration.
Eloping in New York City truly is an incredible experience, and we are honored to be a part of making your dreams a reality. Let's create unforgettable memories together!
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