Getting Your NYC Marriage License: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before your wedding day, there’s one important step every couple needs to complete—getting your New York City marriage license.
Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or a simple elopement, every couple must apply for a marriage license through the NYC City Clerk’s Office.
The process has changed—walk-ins are no longer allowed. You’ll need to schedule an appointment in advance to secure your license and make your marriage official.
As a wedding officiant in New York City, I guide couples through this process often.
Here’s what you need to know to get started—and what to expect on the day of your appointment.
Your Two Options:
✅ In-Person Appointment (Recommended – easier to book)
✅ Virtual Appointment (Limited availability – fills up fast!)
This guide walks you through both options to get your marriage license stress-free.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before you apply, make sure you meet these requirements:
✅ Both partners must be at least 18 years old (Marriage under 18 is prohibited in NYS).
✅ You do NOT need to be a New York resident.
✅ U.S. citizenship is NOT required—anyone can elope in NYC!
💡 Coming from abroad? Check out “Love Without Borders: How to Elope in NYC as a Foreigner” for more information and tips.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need:
Valid Government-Issued ID (Any of these work)
• Driver’s License (any U.S. state)
• Passport
• IDNYC
• State-issued ID
📌 Full list of acceptable IDs City Clerk ID Requirements.
Proof of Previous Marriages (If Applicable)
• Divorced? Bring a certified divorce decree.
• Widowed? Provide a death certificate.
Option 1: In-Person Marriage License Process
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Before scheduling an appointment, fill out the online application here:
➡️ NYC Marriage License Application
💡 Pro Tip: Double-check all details! Your names and birthdates must match your ID precisely to avoid delays.
Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment
Once your application is submitted, book an in-person appointment via Project Cupid.
You can visit the iconic Manhattan City Clerk’s Office or choose the location that’s most convenient for you—there’s a City Clerk’s office in each of the five boroughs (Find your nearest office here).
📅 When do appointments open?
• New slots are released every Monday at 9 AM EST (about 3 weeks in advance).
💡If your preferred location is fully booked, consider making a day of it and heading to the nearest office. You can also check for cancellations throughout the week, as new slots may open!
Step 5: Attend Your Appointment
📍 Go to the appointment with:
✅ Your valid ID
✅ Proof of divorce/widowhood (if applicable)
✅ $35 fee (credit/debit card or money order to City Clerk)
✅ Your appointment confirmation number (show it on your phone—no need to print!)
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive early! You will be seen as long as you have an appointment, but wait times vary.
Step 6: Receive Your Marriage License
You’ll get a physical copy of your license + a return mail envelope to process after your wedding.
Option 2: Virtual Marriage License Process
📢 Virtual appointments are available but VERY limited! Be ready to book the moment slots open.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Start here:
➡️ NYC Marriage License Application
Step 4: Create an NYC.ID Account(Required for virtual appointments only)
Once you’ve filled out your application, create an NYC.ID account to proceed with booking your virtual appointment.
Step 5: Schedule Your Virtual Appointment
Once you have an NYC.ID account, schedule via Project Cupid.
📅 When do appointments open?
New virtual slots are released every Thursday at 9 AM EST (about 3 weeks in advance).
💡 Pro Tip: These disappear FAST—set a reminder!
Step 6: Prepare for Your Virtual Appointment
✅ Download Microsoft Teams (appointments take place via Teams).
✅ Both partners must log in together on the same screen.
✅ You must be physically in New York State during the appointment.
Step 7: Receive Your Marriage License
📧 You’ll receive a PDF copy by email after your appointment.
Keeping Your Marriage License Safe
📌 In-Person License: Store it safely—you’ll need it on your wedding day!
✔️ If we have a rehearsal, I’ll collect it then.
✔️ No rehearsal? I’ll retrieve it on your wedding day.
📌 Virtual License: Email me the PDF as soon as you receive it!
✔️ I’ll complete my portion and bring the finalized document on your wedding day.
Important Reminders & Next Steps
📌 Your marriage license is valid after 24 hours and expires in 60 days.
📌 Active military personnel? Your license is valid for 180 days.
📌 Fee: $35 (credit/debit card or money order—no cash).
📌 Your marriage license is NOT your marriage certificate!
✅ After your wedding, I’ll submit your signed license to the City Clerk.
✅ Your official marriage certificate will arrive by mail in 4–6 weeks.
💡 Need it faster?
✔️ Schedule an in-person ‘Record Room’ appointment within 5 days of your wedding via Project Cupid.
What About a New York State Marriage License?
Considering a license outside of NYC?
If your marriage license is issued by a town or city clerk outside of New York City, here’s what you need to know:
Cost: $40 (varies by location).
Where to Apply: Available through local town or city clerks across New York State.
Accepted in NYC: A state-issued license can be used any in NY State, including NYC.
Documentation: While the required documents are generally the same, specific ID requirements and processes may vary by clerk’s office.
Appointments & Availability: Unlike NYC, some offices accept walk-ins, while others may require appointments with different scheduling procedures.
💡 Check with the town/city clerk’s office where you plan to apply!
📌 More info? Visit the NY State Department of Health
One Step Closer to “I Do!”
💍✨ Have questions or need help? Email me hello@simplyweddingsnyc.gov.
I’m here to make this process easy so you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love!
