NYC Marriage License FAQ
Everything couples ask us about the license, answered. (Rules change; when in doubt, the City Clerk's website has the final word — and we're happy to walk you through it on WhatsApp.)
How do we get a marriage license in New York City?
Start your application online through Project Cupid (the City Clerk's online portal), then book an appointment for both of you to appear in person at a City Clerk office in any of the five boroughs. Appointments are required — walk-ins are a thing of the past.
How much does it cost?
$35, payable by credit card or money order. (If you're also having a ceremony at the Clerk's office itself, that's a separate $25 ceremony fee — but your Central Park ceremony with us has no such fee.)
How far in advance should we get it?
Once issued, the license needs to be in your hands for 24 hours before the ceremony — so get it at least a day or two before your wedding date. It's valid for 60 days after issuance (180 for active-duty military). Plan travel accordingly: don't get it two months early, and don't leave it to the morning of.
What do we need to bring?
Government-issued photo ID for both of you (passport, driver's license, or similar), proof of age, and — if either of you was married before — certified divorce decrees or death certificates. Both of you, in person, together — New York doesn't allow proxy applications. You don't need to be a U.S. resident or citizen; plenty of our couples fly in from abroad.
Do we need witnesses?
Yes — at least one witness, 18 or older, at the ceremony. If it's just the two of you, our photographer can serve as your witness.
We're coming from another country. Will our marriage be valid back home?
A New York marriage is legally valid, and most countries recognize it — but many require an apostille (an international certification) on your marriage certificate before you leave the U.S. Ask us about it when you book; we'll make sure you know the steps.
Can we use a license from our state or country for a Central Park wedding?
No — it must be a New York State license. Out-of-state and foreign licenses aren't valid for ceremonies here.
What about a New Jersey license?
New Jersey is a different system entirely (72-hour wait, 30-day validity, issued by your local town). A NJ license can't be used in New York, and vice versa. Marrying in New Jersey with us? We'll guide you through that process separately.
How do we get the marriage certificate afterward?
Two ways. The simplest: your officiant returns the signed license to the City Clerk for you, and the certificate is mailed to the address on your application in about 6–8 weeks. Or take the signed license back to the Clerk's office yourself — faster, and useful if you need the certificate quickly for international paperwork.
Still unsure? Send us a note — we answer license questions every day.