How to Get Your Marriage License in Western New York: A Step-by-Step Guide
One of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding is securing your marriage license! While it’s an essential part of the process, getting a marriage license in Western New York can feel a bit overwhelming if you're unfamiliar with the requirements. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with this simple, step-by-step guide to make sure you have everything you need to legally marry in the Empire State.
Bride signing her marriage license.
Who Can Apply for a Marriage License in Western New York?
Before you head to the local town or city clerk’s office, it’s important to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in New York State. If you're 16 or 17, you can marry with parental consent and a court order.
Residency: You do not need to be a New York resident to apply for a marriage license. You can apply in any town or city in the state, regardless of where you live. However, you must marry in New York State.
Previous Marriages: If either of you were previously married, you must provide the date your divorce was finalized or, if applicable, the date of your spouse’s death.
Where to Apply for Your Marriage License
In Western New York, marriage licenses are obtained from the Town or City Clerk's Office. You can apply at any Clerk’s Office in the region, but keep in mind that the license is valid statewide, meaning you don’t have to get it from the town where you plan to marry.
Some key locations include:
Buffalo: City of Buffalo Clerk's Office 716-851-5274
Rochester: Monroe County Clerk's Office 585-428-7421
Niagara Falls: Niagara Falls City Clerk's Office 716-286-4392
Canandaigua: City of Canandaigua’s Clerk's Office 585-337-2169
Check the specific office for their hours of operation, as some may require appointments or offer walk-in services.
What You Need to Bring
When you go to apply for your marriage license, be sure to bring the following items with you:
Proof of Identity: Both individuals need to bring valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID.
Proof of Age: A raised-seal copy of your birth certificate.
Divorce or Widow/Widower Documents: If either of you was previously married, bring the final divorce decree or your spouse’s death certificate to confirm that the marriage has been legally dissolved or your spouse has passed.
Cash: Marriage licenses typically require a fee, which varies by county (usually around $40 to $50). Check with your Clerk’s Office for the exact amount and payment methods accepted.
The Application Process
The application process is fairly straightforward. Here’s what to expect:
Both Must Be Present: Both partners must be present when applying for the marriage license, as signatures are required from both individuals.
Application Form: You’ll fill out an application form that asks for basic information, including your names, ages, addresses, and parents’ names (including mother’s maiden name).
Waiting Period: New York has a 24 hour waiting period, so you can use your marriage license almost immediately after it’s issued. However, keep in mind that the license will expire after 60 days, so make sure to marry within that timeframe!
How to Get Married After You Have Your License
Once you have your marriage license, you're ready to get married! A few things to keep in mind:
Officiant: You’ll need someone to officiate your ceremony. This could be a religious officiant, a judge, or a licensed wedding officiant. If you're looking for someone to officiate your ceremony, consider a professional like Flower City Ceremonies who can provide personalized services that reflect your unique love story.
Witnesses: New York law requires that at least one witness be present at your ceremony, but you can have more if you’d like. The witness will sign the marriage license during the ceremony.
Filing Your License: After the ceremony, your officiant will file your marriage license with the Clerk’s Office. You’ll then be able to request certified copies of your marriage certificate for a small fee, which can be useful for name changes, insurance, and legal matters.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes couples make when applying for a marriage license:
Missing the 60-Day Window: Your marriage license is only valid for 60 days, so be sure to marry within that time frame.
Not Bringing Proper Documents: Be sure to bring your ID, proof of age, and any required documents if either of you has been divorced or widowed.
Forgetting to Check Office Hours: Some Clerk’s Offices have limited hours or require appointments, so always double-check before heading over.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline or Need to Reschedule?
If for some reason you need to reschedule your wedding after obtaining your marriage license, don't worry. You can always apply for a new one. However, make sure to keep track of the 60-day expiration date and plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Getting your marriage license in Western New York is a straightforward process, but it’s important to be prepared and informed about the requirements and steps involved. By understanding where to apply, what to bring, and the rules around validity, you can ensure everything is in place for a smooth wedding day.
If you're still in need of a professional officiant to make your ceremony truly special, Flower City Ceremonies is here to help! We can guide you through the legalities and help create a personalized ceremony that perfectly reflects your love story. Contact us today to begin planning your unforgettable wedding!
