How to Get a Marriage License in NYC
Eloping in New York City is surprisingly simple — but first, you need a marriage license. Whether you're planning a rooftop ceremony, a City Hall elopement, or a quick vows-and-bagels moment in Brooklyn Bridge Park, this is the one piece of paperwork you must have to make it official.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to get a marriage license in NYC in 2024 — no legal jargon, no fluff, just a step-by-step guide Cakewalk-style.
📝 Step 1: Start Your Application Online (Yes, You Can Do This in Your Pajamas)
Before you even set foot in the City Clerk’s office, you’ll want to fill out the online Marriage License application. You can do it on the NYC Marriage Bureau’s Project Cupid website.
Takes about 5–10 minutes
You’ll need basic ID info (names, birthplaces, addresses, etc.)
Once submitted, it stays valid in the system for 21 days
Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last minute — we recommend completing this at least a few days before you plan to visit the clerk.
🗽 Step 2: Go In Person to the City Clerk’s Office
Even though you start online, you must appear in person together to complete the license process. Here’s what that looks like:
Where: Manhattan Marriage Bureau (141 Worth Street) — or any borough office
When: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–3:45 PM (get there early!)
Bring: Valid photo ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
Cost: $35 (payable by credit/debit card or money order)
Once you arrive, you’ll get a number, wait your turn, show your documents, and sign your license in front of a clerk. Boom. You’re nearly there.
⏳ Step 3: Wait 24 Hours
Yes, NYC makes you wait. After getting your license, you must wait at least 24 hours before you can legally get married. Plan your ceremony accordingly!
Exceptions: You can request a “Judicial Waiver” of the waiting period, but it’s rarely granted for elopements unless there’s an emergency or unique circumstance.
✅ Step 4: Get Married Within 60 Days
Your NYC marriage license is valid for 60 days from the time you receive it (180 days if one of you is active military). That gives you a solid window to plan your ceremony and make it official.
Cakewalk takes care of the rest — we’ll:
Pair you with a licensed officiant
Handle the marriage license signing
Submit your completed license back to the clerk
You’ll receive your official marriage certificate by mail (or you can order extra copies online).
❓Common Questions About NYC Marriage Licenses
Can we get our license in one borough and get married in another?
Yes! Your license is valid anywhere in New York State — whether you're tying the knot in Harlem or the Hamptons.
What if we’re from out of state or another country?
Still fine. You do not need to be a New York resident to get a marriage license here.
Can we get married at the Marriage Bureau?
Yes, but Cakewalk offers more personalized ceremonies with cooler photos and way less waiting in line.
Do we need witnesses?
Yes — at least one (two is standard). If you don’t have any, Cakewalk can help.
💍 One Last Thing: Don’t Forget Your License on the Big Day
It sounds obvious, but trust us — people forget. We always send a day-before checklist to make sure you have your license, ID, and a fully charged phone (for photos and directions, obviously).
If you’re working with Cakewalk, we’ll help walk you through every step — from paperwork to the actual kiss-their-face moment. Getting married in NYC can be easy and meaningful. You just need a plan, a license, and a little bit of magic.