New York Marriage License Guide

Before the Ceremony: You Need a Marriage License

In New York State, couples must obtain a marriage license before the wedding ceremony can be legally performed. The license is issued by a town or city clerk, not by the officiant.

Wedding Solutions can guide you through the ceremony process, but each couple is responsible for obtaining a valid New York State marriage license before the ceremony.

Where to Get a Marriage License

In New York, marriage licenses are issued by town and city clerks. Couples planning a Rochester ceremony may apply through the Rochester City Clerk’s Office. Couples outside Rochester should contact the town or city clerk where they plan to apply.

Basic New York Marriage License Rules

Who issues the license? A town or city clerk in New York State.

Can the officiant issue the license? No. The couple must obtain the license before the ceremony.

Waiting period Generally 24 hours after the license is issued.

Expiration Generally 60 calendar days after issuance.

Outside NYC fee New York State lists the fee as $40 outside New York City.

Blood test required? No. New York no longer requires a blood test.

Rochester Marriage License Information

The City of Rochester states that couples can obtain marriage licenses in person at the City Clerk’s Office between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Civil ceremonies may also be scheduled after the couple has obtained a marriage license.

What to Bring

Requirements can vary by clerk, so couples should check with the town or city clerk before applying. In general, couples should expect to bring valid identification and any required documentation related to prior marriages, if applicable.

Wedding Day Reminder

Bring the physical marriage license to the ceremony. The officiant cannot legally perform the ceremony without a valid license present on the wedding day.

After the Ceremony

After the ceremony, the marriage license must be completed and returned according to the issuing clerk’s instructions. Wedding Solutions will review and complete the officiant portion as part of the ceremony process.

Simple Planning Timeline

Contact the town or city clerk where you plan to apply.
Confirm office hours, fee, identification requirements, and documentation.
Apply for the marriage license in the proper time window.
Wait the required period before the ceremony.
Bring the valid license to the wedding ceremony.
Complete the ceremony with an authorized officiant and witness.
Return the completed license according to the clerk’s instructions.

This guide is for general planning information only and is not legal advice. Couples should confirm current requirements directly with the appropriate town or city clerk before applying for a marriage license.