How to Elope in New York City: A No-Nonsense Guide
So, you want to elope in NYC. Excellent choice. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s energy, its endless iconic backdrops, or just the fact that you don’t feel like planning a massive wedding, New York is one of the best places in the world to get married.
But before you grab your person and say let’s do this, you probably have some questions. Here’s everything you need to know to elope in NYC, without the stress.
Step 1: Get a Marriage License
Before you can get married, you need a marriage license from the City Clerk’s Office. Here’s how:
✅ Apply online first. Fill out your application via Project Cupid before heading to the clerk’s office.
✅ Go in person. Both of you must show up together at the office to complete the process. No, you can’t send your cool aunt in your place.
✅ Bring ID. A passport or driver’s license will work.
✅ Pay the fee. It’s $35 and can be paid with a credit card or money order.
📍 Where to go: The Manhattan Marriage Bureau at 141 Worth Street is the most famous spot, but any borough’s clerk office will do.
🕒 Timing: You’ll get your license immediately, but you have to wait at least 24 hours before you can get married. The license is valid for 60 days, so don’t procrastinate forever.
Step 2: Choose How & Where to Get Married
Now that you have your license, it’s time to actually get married. You have two main options:
Option 1: Get Married at City Hall
Walk in, take a number, and wait your turn. It’s like the DMV, but with happier vibes.
You’ll need a witness (Cakewalk can provide one if needed).
Pay $25 for the ceremony. It’s quick, simple, and over before you know it.
💡 Pro Tip: The Manhattan Marriage Bureau is the most popular, but Brooklyn’s office is more low-key and just as efficient.
Option 2: Have a Ceremony Anywhere in NYC
If you don’t want the government office vibe, you can get married literally anywhere—as long as you have an officiant and a witness. Some ideas:
Central Park – Classic, iconic, and free.
Brooklyn Bridge Park – Skyline views, unbeatable energy.
A favorite bar or coffee shop – Who says you need a traditional venue?
Your apartment rooftop – NYC backdrops without the tourists.
Times Square at 2 AM – If you want a very specific kind of chaotic energy.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re eloping outside of City Hall, Cakewalk can handle all the logistics—location scouting, officiant, photographer, and anything else you need.
Step 3: Make It Legal
No matter where you get married, you need to file your signed marriage license back with the City Clerk’s Office.
✅ Your officiant and witness sign the marriage license after the ceremony.
✅ File it back at the clerk’s office. You can drop it off in person or mail it in.
✅ Wait for your official marriage certificate. This is the one you’ll need for legal name changes, taxes, and proving to your grandma that you’re actually married.
💡 Pro Tip: It usually takes 2-4 weeks to get your certificate. If you need it ASAP, you can request a copy in person for an additional fee.
Step 4: Celebrate However You Want
That’s it—you’re officially married! Now, what happens next is entirely up to you.
🍾 Pop champagne on a park bench.
🌮 Hit up your favorite taco spot.
🎤 Sing karaoke until your voices are gone.
✈️ Hop on a plane to your dream destination.
Whatever it looks like, it’s your wedding day. Make it yours.
FAQs About Eloping in NYC
💰 How much does it cost to elope in NYC?
$35 for the marriage license
$25 for a City Hall ceremony (if you go that route)
Anything else is up to you!
⏳ How long does it take to get married in NYC?
You can apply for your license and get married in as little as 24 hours.
A City Hall wedding usually takes under an hour, including waiting time.
👀 Do I need witnesses?
Yes, you need one witness (18+) for both City Hall and private ceremonies.
📝 Can we write our own vows?
At City Hall? No, it’s a standard script.
Anywhere else? Absolutely—go wild.
🌎 Can non-U.S. citizens elope in NYC?
Yes! New York makes it easy for international couples to get legally married. Just check if your country requires any extra paperwork.
📸 Can Cakewalk help with elopements?
100%. We handle everything—officiant, location, photography, and planning. You just show up and get married.
Final Thoughts: Elope Your Way
Elope in 10 minutes. Plan something small and meaningful. Make it a complete surprise. Whatever you do, do it on your terms.
If you’re ready to elope in NYC without the stress, let’s make it happen. Cakewalk makes it easy.