How to Get a Marriage License in New York

An important step in making your marriage legal is obtaining a marriage license. Following are guidelines on how to obtain a marriage license if you plan to wed in New York.

Things You'll Need

• Divorce decree, annulment paper or death certificate, if applicable
• Marriage license application
• Valid identification
• Cash

Instructions

1. Apply for the marriage license together in person at any town or city clerk's office in the state of New York. Residency in New York is not required.

2. Present both proof of identity and age. A driver's license, employment picture identification card or immigration record are acceptable forms of identification for this purpose. Certified copies of birth certificates, baptismal records, naturalization records or census records are acceptable forms of proof of age.

3. Fill out the application and sign it in the presence of the clerk. Applicants may also be asked to provide addresses, telephone numbers, social security numbers, states of birth, marriage officiator information and father's and mother's full names.

4. Pay the license fee and head to the altar. The license will be issued immediately. There is a 24-hour waiting period between the time the license is issued and the time the wedding may occur. Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days after issuance.

5. Bring required documentation if you have been married previously--the certified document that ended your last marriage, such as a divorce decree, annulment paper or death certificate.

Tips & Warnings

• Marriage license requirements often change. Verify all information with the local marriage license office or city clerk before making any wedding or travel arrangements.