How to Become a Wedding Ceremony Officiant
All states and territories in the U.S. have their own laws on who can perform a marriage ceremony, but in general any person who is ordained by a religious institution--for which the definitions are often very loose--can perform this service. The steps to becoming a wedding ceremony officiant vary from one religious group to another but are generally very straightforward and sometimes quite simple.
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Instructions
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Become ordained in a church. Most states simply say that a wedding can be overseen by an ordained minister or priest in any religious organization or society, with the barrier for recognized “religion” being very low. This allows virtually anyone to become a marriage official. Websites like First Nation Ministry offer immediate ordination, with certificates that can be printed out online.
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Follow local guidelines, which may include registering with a government office. Some counties require officiants to file paperwork, registering as someone who is legally allowed to perform wedding ceremonies. You should contact the clerk at the county courthouse several weeks ahead of the ceremony, to ensure you haven’t missed any steps.
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Faithfully complete the duties of the officiant. After the ceremony, the officiant typically completes the marriage license and marriage certificate, gives a copy to the couple and another to the local clerk of the court, often with two witnesses signing. Failure to complete this step can result in the couple not being registered as legally married.
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Tips & Warnings
Some public officials, such as a justice of the peace and county clerks can perform weddings. Achieving one of these positions takes much more time and professional investment. Depending on where you live, these positions are either appointed by a government official or are elected offices.
References
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