Your best friend just asked you to officiate their wedding. After the initial excitement wears off, a practical question probably pops into your head: "Wait, can I actually do that?" The answer is a resounding yes, and you don't need to attend seminary for years to make it happen. The modern path is straightforward, accessible, and completely legitimate. This guide is designed to walk you through how to get a legal online ordination, transforming that special request into a reality. We'll cover everything from the simple application process to understanding state-specific rules, ensuring the ceremony you perform is not only heartfelt but also legally sound.
Key Takeaways
- Your Ordination is Only Step One: While getting ordained online is legally valid in most places, you must always call the local county clerk's office where the wedding is held to confirm their specific registration rules.
- Invest in Your Role as an Officiant: The initial ordination may be free, but plan on purchasing official documents and investing in training to learn how to write a ceremony and handle the legal paperwork correctly.
- A Good Service Equips You for Success: Look beyond the free application and choose an organization that provides practical support, such as ceremony scripts, legal guides, and training, to help you perform your duties with confidence.
What is Online Ordination? (And Is It Legal?)
Think of online ordination as a modern, straightforward path to becoming a legally recognized minister. It’s a process that allows you to get ordained through an established religious organization, like All Faith Ministry, using a simple online application. This grants you the legal authority to perform ceremonies, most commonly wedding ceremonies for friends, family, or as a professional service.
The big question everyone asks is, "Is it actually legal?" The short answer is yes, and here's why. In the United States, the First Amendment gives religious organizations the right to define their own rules for ordination. This means there isn't a single, government-mandated process you have to follow. Because of this, getting ordained through a reputable online ministry is a completely valid way to gain the legal authority to officiate weddings. This process opens the door for you to legally sign a marriage license and make a couple's big day official.
It’s designed to be accessible, allowing you to apply for ordination from home without the years of study required by traditional seminaries. The key is to work with a credible organization that understands the legal landscape and provides you with the proper documentation and support to perform your duties confidently and correctly. This ensures that when you stand up to lead a ceremony, the union you create is not just emotionally significant, but legally sound.
State-by-State Legal Recognition
While online ordination is legally recognized at a federal level, the specific rules for officiating a wedding can change depending on where the ceremony takes place. Most states are perfectly fine with ministers ordained online, but a few have extra requirements. For example, you might need to register with a local government office before the wedding day. It’s a simple step, but a crucial one.
This is why your most important task is to check the local requirements. Before you officiate any wedding, you should always contact the county clerk’s office in the county where the marriage license will be issued. They can give you the final word on what, if any, paperwork you need to file. We have a great resource to help you start your research on state laws.
Why Get Ordained Online?
So, why go this route? For most people, it comes down to accessibility and purpose. Maybe your best friend asked you to officiate their wedding, or you feel a calling to help couples celebrate their love but don't want to attend a traditional seminary. Online ordination is a convenient, inclusive, and often free way to get started. It allows you to become a minister on your own terms and timeline, fitting this meaningful role into your life.
Reputable organizations provide you with the necessary credentials and support to perform ceremonies with confidence. It’s a path that empowers you to bring joy to others, whether you plan to officiate one wedding or build a fulfilling side hustle. The process is designed to be simple, so you can focus on what really matters: creating a beautiful and memorable ceremony for the couple.
How to Get Ordained Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting ordained online is much simpler than you might think. The process is designed to be accessible, allowing you to become a legal wedding officiant without the years of study required by traditional religious institutions. It’s a path that empowers you to legally preside over a wedding ceremony, whether it’s for your best friends or as the start of a new career. The key is to follow a few straightforward steps to ensure your ordination is valid and you’re ready to perform your duties confidently and legally. Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do to get started.
The Simple Application Process
The first step is to complete a simple online application. Reputable organizations have streamlined this process so you can finish it in just a few minutes from your computer. You’ll be asked to provide some basic personal information to establish your identity and create your official record as a minister. The goal is to make ordination accessible to anyone who feels called to officiate. At All Faith Ministry, we offer a clear and direct path to apply for ordination that respects your time and gets you started on your journey right away.
Information You'll Need on Hand
When you fill out your application, it’s critical to use your full, legal name. Using a nickname, a shortened version of your name, or someone else’s name will invalidate your ordination. This is a legal document, so accuracy is essential. Before you even apply, it’s also a great idea to get familiar with your local laws. Marriage laws can vary significantly from one state or county to the next. Taking a moment to review the state-specific rules will ensure you know about any extra registration steps you might need to take after you’re ordained.
How Soon You'll Be Official
One of the most exciting parts of getting ordained online is how quickly it happens. In most cases, your ordination is effective almost immediately after you submit your application. You’ll typically receive a confirmation email within minutes, welcoming you as an officially ordained minister. Many organizations, including All Faith Ministry, offer this initial ordination for free. This allows you to become legally recognized as a minister without any upfront financial barriers. From there, you can focus on the next steps, like getting your official credentials and preparing for your first ceremony.
The Most Reputable Places to Get Ordained Online
Once you’ve decided to become a wedding officiant, the next step is finding the right organization to ordain you. A quick search will show you there are plenty of options out there, but not all are created equal. You want a service that’s not only legally recognized but also provides the support you need to feel confident on the big day. To make it easier, I’ve gathered a few of the most reputable places to get ordained online, each with a solid track record of helping people start their journey as an officiant.
All Faith Ministry
At All Faith Ministry, we believe in preparing you for more than just the legal requirements. We offer a streamlined path for you to become an ordained minister, equipping you with the tools and knowledge to officiate ceremonies with confidence and professionalism. Beyond just the piece of paper, our focus is on comprehensive support. This includes practical wedding officiant training that covers everything from writing a script to managing the ceremony. We’re here to help you build a fulfilling practice, whether you’re officiating one wedding for a friend or starting a new career. Our goal is to make sure you feel completely prepared to create a meaningful and memorable experience for every couple.
Universal Life Church
The Universal Life Church (ULC) is one of the most well-known names in online ordination, largely because of its straightforward approach. As they state, "You can become a legal wedding officiant quickly and easily by getting ordained online." Their ordinations are legally recognized in most states, making them a popular choice for those who need to get certified without a long wait. The ULC’s process is designed to be fast and accessible, which is perfect if you’ve been asked to officiate a wedding on short notice. They also offer a variety of resources through their website, including ceremony scripts and information on state marriage laws to help you get started.
American Marriage Ministries
American Marriage Ministries, or AMM, is another excellent option, particularly known for its commitment to making ordination accessible to everyone. They emphasize that their service "lets anyone become a legal wedding officiant for free through a quick online process." What sets AMM apart is its status as an IRS-certified 501(c)(3) non-profit church, which solidifies the legal standing of their ordinations across the United States. This non-denominational organization focuses on the legal right of all people to marry and to choose who officiates their ceremony. Their website is packed with helpful guides, legal information, and tools to help you prepare for the wedding day with total confidence in your credentials.
How to Spot a Credible Service
No matter which service you consider, doing your own due diligence is key. A reputable organization will be transparent about its legal standing and provide resources to help you succeed. The most important step is to confirm the rules in your area. As experts advise, "It's critical to check with the local county clerk where the couple is getting married to ensure that a wedding ceremony performed by an officiant that gets ordained online is legally recognized." Beyond that, look for organizations that offer ongoing support, like access to training materials, sample scripts, and a community forum. A clear code of ethics is also a great sign that an organization is committed to professionalism and integrity.
Check Your State's Laws on Online Ordination
Once you’re ordained, the next critical step is to understand the local rules. While online ordination is legally recognized in all 50 states, the specific requirements for officiants can vary quite a bit from one state—and even one county—to another. Think of your ordination as your foundational credential, but the state and county are who give you the final green light to perform a specific ceremony.
Don’t let this part of the process intimidate you. It’s usually just a matter of knowing what paperwork, if any, needs to be filed. Some states have a straightforward process where your ordination certificate is all you need, while others require you to register with a local government office. Taking a few minutes to confirm the rules where the wedding will take place ensures the couple’s marriage is 100% legal and valid. For a detailed breakdown, you can always check our guide to state laws to get a head start on what to expect.
States That Require Extra Registration
In some states, becoming ordained online is just the first step. States like Arkansas, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Delaware, for example, require ministers to take an extra step by registering with a government office. This might mean filing your ordination credentials with the Secretary of State or a local court. If you’re officiating a wedding out of state, these rules are especially important to follow. The process is typically simple—just some paperwork and maybe a small fee—but it’s a non-negotiable step to ensure the marriage is legally binding. Always check the specific requirements for the state where the ceremony will be held well in advance.
States with No Added Steps
On the flip side, many states make it incredibly easy for online-ordained ministers to officiate weddings. In places like California, Colorado, Texas, and Alabama, your ordination is all you need to legally perform a ceremony. There’s no extra paperwork to file with the state or any government office to register with. Once you have your proof of ordination, you are fully authorized to sign the marriage license and make it official. This streamlined approach is common across the country, but it’s still wise to double-check local rules, just to be safe. It gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on what really matters: creating a beautiful ceremony.
How to Confirm Requirements with Your County Clerk
No matter what a state’s general laws say, the ultimate authority on marriage requirements is the county clerk’s office where the couple will get their marriage license. This is the single most important call you can make. Before the wedding, simply call the clerk and introduce yourself. You can say something like, "Hi, I'm a minister ordained through All Faith Ministry, and I'll be officiating a wedding in your county. I just wanted to confirm what documentation you need from me." They will give you the most accurate, up-to-date information and let you know if you need to register in person or provide any specific documents. This simple phone call removes all guesswork and ensures a smooth, legal process for everyone.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Ordained Online?
One of the most common questions people have is about the cost of getting ordained online. The good news is that it’s incredibly affordable, and in many cases, the core ordination is completely free. The real costs are associated with the official documents you might need and any professional training you choose to pursue. It’s helpful to think of it in three parts: the free ordination that legally makes you a minister, the optional paperwork that proves your credentials, and the training that makes you a confident and capable officiant.
Many reputable organizations believe that the calling to officiate a sacred ceremony shouldn't be blocked by a paywall, so they provide the ordination at no charge. This opens the door for anyone passionate about celebrating love. However, to register with a local government or simply have professional documents to show a couple, you'll likely need to purchase official certificates. Beyond the paperwork, investing in your skills is what truly prepares you to lead a memorable ceremony. This is where you learn the art of officiating—from writing a heartfelt script to managing the legal paperwork correctly. It’s the difference between simply being qualified on paper and being exceptional at what you do.
Understanding Free Ordination
You read that right—you can become a legally ordained minister without spending a dime. Reputable organizations like All Faith Ministry, the Universal Life Church, and American Marriage Ministries offer free online ordination. The process is typically fast and straightforward, requiring you to fill out a simple application with your basic information. There are no hidden fees or mandatory courses for the ordination itself. This approach makes it accessible for anyone who wants to officiate a wedding for a loved one or explore it as a new career path. The core belief is that your ability to become a minister shouldn't depend on your budget.
Optional Certificates and Paid Services
While your digital ordination is free, you’ll likely need physical proof to make it official in the eyes of the law. Most county clerks require you to present official documents, such as an ordination certificate or a Letter of Good Standing, when you register to perform a marriage. These items are not usually free. Ordaining organizations offer these credentials and other ministerial supplies for a fee. Purchasing these documents not only provides you with the necessary paperwork but also helps support the organization so they can continue to offer free ordination and helpful resources to ministers like you.
Investing in Wedding Officiant Training
Getting ordained is your license to officiate, but it doesn’t automatically teach you how to do it well. This is where investing in proper wedding officiant training becomes invaluable. A quality training program gives you the practical skills and confidence to handle every aspect of the job. You’ll learn how to write a beautiful, personalized ceremony script, guide a couple through their vows, manage the flow of the wedding day, and correctly complete and file the marriage license. This education is what separates a nervous, first-time officiant from a calm, professional one who can create a truly special experience for the couple.
You're Ordained! What Paperwork Comes Next?
Congratulations, you're officially ordained! That’s a huge step, and you should feel proud. Now, before you start practicing your "I now pronounce you..." speech, there are a few pieces of paperwork to sort out. Think of this as the final checkpoint before you can legally officiate a wedding. Getting your documents in order is what makes your role official and ensures the couple's marriage is legally sound. It might sound a bit formal, but it’s a straightforward process. Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do to cross your t's, dot your i's, and get ready for the big day.
Your Proof of Ordination Certificate
Your ordination is official, but you'll need a way to prove it. That's where your ordination certificate comes in. This document is your official credential, serving as physical proof that you are a legally ordained minister. Some county clerks may ask to see it when the couple applies for their marriage license, or they might require you to file a copy with their office. It’s always better to have it on hand just in case. You can find official credentials like certificates and Letters of Good Standing in our store to ensure you have everything you need to look professional and meet any legal requirements.
How to Handle the Marriage License
The marriage license is the single most important document you'll handle as an officiant. This is the legal form that makes the marriage official, and your role is critical. After the ceremony, you are responsible for ensuring the license is filled out correctly and signed by you, the couple, and any required witnesses. Every detail matters, from the date to the location. Once it's signed, you'll need to return it to the county clerk's office within a specific timeframe. Be sure to clarify the return deadline with the couple beforehand, as it varies by state. Your signature is what validates the entire ceremony in the eyes of the law.
Filing State-Specific Paperwork
While your online ordination is legally recognized in most places, some states have a few extra hoops to jump through. States like Arkansas, Hawaii, and Louisiana, for example, require ministers to register with a government office before they can officiate a wedding. This is why it's absolutely essential to check the state-specific requirements where the ceremony will take place. The best first step is always to call the county clerk’s office where the couple will get their marriage license. They can give you the most accurate, up-to-date information and confirm that your ordination meets their standards, giving you and the couple total peace of mind.
What Can You Legally Do as an Ordained Minister?
Once you’ve completed your online ordination, you’re officially a minister. So, what does that actually mean? For most people, the immediate goal is to officiate a wedding for a friend or family member, but your new credentials open the door to so much more. As an ordained minister, you have the legal standing to perform a variety of ceremonies that mark the most important moments in people's lives. This isn't just about signing a piece of paper; it's about holding a special, trusted role in your community.
Your ordination gives you the authority to legally solemnize marriages, which is a huge and wonderful responsibility. But you can also lead other services, like vow renewals, baby naming ceremonies, and even funerals. Think of it as a toolkit that allows you to support people through both joyful celebrations and difficult times. Of course, with this authority comes the responsibility to act ethically and understand the laws in your area. Before you perform any ceremony, it’s essential to know what’s required to ensure everything is official. If you're ready to take on this rewarding role, you can apply for ordination and start your journey.
Officiating Wedding Ceremonies
This is the big one! The primary reason most people seek ordination is to legally officiate a wedding. With your minister credentials, you have the legal authority to stand before a couple, guide them through their vows, and pronounce them married. You are the person who makes their union official in the eyes of the law.
This is a profound honor, and it’s important to approach it with care and professionalism. You’ll be responsible for not only crafting a beautiful ceremony but also for correctly handling the marriage license. Proper wedding officiant training can help you feel confident in every aspect of the process, from the first consultation with the couple to filing the legal paperwork after the "I do's."
Performing Other Ceremonial Duties
Your role as a minister doesn't have to end with weddings. Your ordination allows you to perform a wide range of other ceremonies that serve your community. You can officiate vow renewals for couples celebrating a milestone anniversary, lead commitment ceremonies for those who want to formalize their partnership without a legal marriage, or conduct baby naming ceremonies to welcome a new child into the family.
You can also provide comfort and guidance during somber occasions by officiating funerals or celebrations of life. These services require a different kind of skill set, but they are an incredibly meaningful way to support people. You can find helpful resources, like ceremony scripts and guidebooks, in the AFM Store to help you prepare for these diverse roles.
Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities
While becoming a minister is a straightforward process, it comes with serious legal responsibilities you can’t overlook. Your most critical duty as a wedding officiant is to ensure the marriage is legally binding. This means you must understand and follow the specific marriage laws of the state and county where the ceremony takes place. These rules can vary significantly from one location to another.
Before officiating any wedding, you should always check the local requirements. A great first step is to review the state laws to get a general idea, but you should also contact the county clerk’s office directly. They will give you the final word on registration requirements and how to properly complete and return the marriage license. Following a professional code of ethics ensures you always act with integrity and honor the trust placed in you.
What Kind of Support Should Your Ordination Service Provide?
Getting your ordination certificate is an exciting first step, but it’s just that—a first step. The real value of a great ordaining organization comes from the support it offers after you’re official. Think of it this way: the ordination gives you the legal ability to perform a wedding, but the support system gives you the confidence and skills to perform a beautiful, memorable ceremony. A piece of paper can’t help you with a nervous couple or a tricky legal question, but a solid support network can.
When you’re choosing where to get ordained, look beyond the initial application. A reputable service won’t just hand you a certificate and wish you luck. They’ll provide a foundation for your new role with practical resources, legal guidance, and a professional community. Many organizations offer a free digital ordination and provide the necessary tools and support to become a recognized officiant. This ongoing relationship is what helps you grow from someone who can officiate a wedding to someone who does it with grace and professionalism. True support means having a place to turn for answers, inspiration, and continued learning as you begin your journey.
Access to Ceremony Scripts and Resources
Once you’re ordained, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is, “What do I actually say?” This is where a great organization really shines. Instead of leaving you to search the internet for hours, they should provide access to a library of resources. Look for sample ceremony scripts, vow-writing guides, and ideas for readings or unity rituals. These tools are invaluable for helping you craft a ceremony that feels personal and authentic to the couple. Having a solid starting point saves you time and stress, allowing you to focus on delivering a heartfelt message. You can find helpful materials and officiant supplies in the AFM Store to get you started.
Legal Guidance and Further Education
Officiating a wedding comes with serious legal responsibilities, and the rules can vary quite a bit from one place to another. A trustworthy ordaining service will help you make sense of these obligations. They should offer clear guidance on the state laws you need to follow, from registering with the local county clerk to correctly filling out the marriage license. Understanding these legal requirements is crucial for ensuring the ceremony is valid. Beyond the basics, look for opportunities for further education. Comprehensive wedding officiant training can give you the practical skills and confidence to handle any situation that comes your way, turning a potential side hustle into a fulfilling professional role.
A Community for Professional Growth
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. The best ordination services foster a sense of community among their ministers. This might look like an online forum where you can ask questions, a newsletter with helpful tips, or a shared professional standard that everyone agrees to uphold. Being part of a larger group provides a network for support and encouragement as you build your experience. It also adds a layer of credibility to your role. Following a shared Code of Ethics, for example, shows couples that you are committed to a high standard of professionalism and care in your work. This community is what helps you feel like a true professional, not just someone with an online certificate.
Debunking the Biggest Myths About Online Ordination
If you've thought about getting ordained online, you've probably run into some conflicting information. Can you really become a legal wedding officiant with just a few clicks? Does it count if you aren't religious? The truth is, there are a lot of myths floating around that can make the whole process feel confusing. Let's clear the air and tackle some of the biggest misconceptions head-on so you can move forward with confidence.
Misconceptions About Legal Validity
This is the big one: Is an online ordination even legal? The short answer is yes, in most states. The longer, more accurate answer is that it depends on where the wedding is taking place. While the majority of states recognize ministers ordained online, the legal landscape isn't uniform. Some states have extra registration steps, while a few have stricter requirements. It’s essential to check the specific rules for the state and county where the ceremony will be held. Don't just assume that because your ordination is valid in one state, it will be recognized everywhere. A little research upfront ensures the couple's marriage is 100% official. You can start by reviewing our guide to state laws to understand what's needed in your area.
The Myth of Religious Requirements
Many people assume you need to be deeply religious or affiliated with a traditional church to become an ordained minister. That’s simply not the case anymore. Modern ministries, including All Faith Ministry, believe that the right to marry and the right to choose who performs your ceremony are universal. Our focus is on the commitment between two people and the joy of their union, not a specific doctrine. You don't have to subscribe to a particular faith; you just need to align with the core belief that all people deserve a meaningful and celebratory start to their marriage. Our officiants are guided by a code of ethics centered on professionalism, inclusivity, and respect for every couple's unique love story.
Assumptions About a Complicated Process
The idea of becoming "ordained" sounds formal and intimidating, bringing to mind years of study and complex procedures. But getting ordained online is designed to be the exact opposite. Reputable organizations have made the process incredibly simple and accessible because they believe anyone with a genuine desire to officiate should be able to do so. Typically, it involves filling out a straightforward application with your basic information and agreeing to the organization's principles. You won't be bogged down with confusing paperwork or a lengthy waiting period. In fact, you can often complete the first step in just a few minutes. If you're curious, you can see just how simple it is to apply for ordination and get started.
Choose the Right Ordination Service for You
With so many organizations offering online ordination, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. How do you know which one is the right fit? The truth is, the "best" service really depends on your specific needs and goals. Think of it less like finding the one perfect option and more like finding the right partner to help you succeed. A quick, free ordination might be all you need if you’re officiating a casual ceremony for a close friend. But if you’re dreaming of building a side business or want to feel fully prepared for the big day, you’ll want to look for an organization that offers more than just a digital certificate.
Choosing the right service is about setting yourself up for success. You want to feel confident not just in your legal standing, but in your ability to lead a beautiful, heartfelt ceremony that the couple will remember forever. A great ordination service provides peace of mind, ensuring all the legal boxes are checked so you can focus on the couple. To make a smart choice, you’ll want to consider three key things: your state’s specific legal requirements, the kind of training and support you’ll have access to, and what you ultimately want to achieve as an officiant. Let’s walk through what to look for in each of these areas.
Match a Service to Your State's Rules
Before you do anything else, it’s essential to understand your local laws. Wedding laws are not one-size-fits-all; they vary from state to state and even county to county. While most states recognize ministers ordained online, some have extra requirements. For example, you might need to register with the local county clerk’s office before the ceremony. A reputable ordination service will not only provide you with a legal ordination but will also help you understand the specific state laws you need to follow. This guidance is crucial for ensuring the marriage is legally binding and everything goes smoothly.
Compare Training and Support Options
Getting your ordination certificate is just the first step. The real work begins when you start planning the ceremony. Ask yourself: what happens after I’m officially ordained? Does the organization offer resources to help me write a script, handle the marriage license, and manage a wedding rehearsal? Quality wedding officiant training can be the difference between feeling nervous and feeling prepared. Look for a service that provides ongoing support, whether it’s through ceremony templates, legal advice, or a community of fellow officiants you can turn to with questions. This support system is invaluable, especially as you’re starting out.
Get Ready to Officiate Your First Wedding
Finally, think about your personal goals. Are you getting ordained to officiate a single wedding for your best friend, or are you interested in turning this into a fulfilling side hustle or even a full-time career? Your long-term plans should influence your choice. If you plan to perform multiple ceremonies, you’ll benefit from an organization that offers professional resources, like officiant supplies in an AFM Store and a strong code of ethics. Choosing a service that aligns with your ambitions will give you the foundation you need to grow, feel confident, and bring joy to every couple you work with.
Related Articles
- What Are the Requirements to Become an Ordained Minister?
- Online Ordination for Weddings: A Complete Guide
- Non Denominational Ordination Online: The 2025 Guide
- How to Get Ordained | Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming Ordained
- Here’s Your Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming Ordained
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online ordination actually legitimate for a wedding? Yes, it absolutely is. In the United States, reputable online ministries have the legal standing to ordain ministers. Your ordination grants you the legal status to perform a marriage ceremony. The key is to remember that while your ordination is valid, you still have to follow the specific marriage laws of the county where the wedding is taking place, which sometimes involves a simple registration step.
How long does it take to get ordained? The process is surprisingly fast. After you submit your online application with your legal name and information, your ordination is typically effective almost immediately. You should receive a digital confirmation within minutes, officially recognizing you as a minister. This speed is designed to make the process accessible, especially for those who have been asked to officiate a wedding for friends or family without much lead time.
Do I need to be religious or part of a specific church? Not at all. Many modern ministries, including All Faith Ministry, welcome people from all backgrounds and belief systems. The focus is on your desire to celebrate a couple's commitment, not on adherence to a specific religious doctrine. The core principle is one of inclusivity and honoring the couple's unique love story, so you don't need a traditional religious background to take on this meaningful role.
If the ordination is free, what do I actually need to pay for? The initial ordination itself is often free because organizations believe there shouldn't be a financial barrier to becoming a minister. The costs come from the official documents you'll need to prove your status. This includes things like a physical ordination certificate or a Letter of Good Standing, which are often required by county clerks. You might also choose to invest in professional training to help you write and perform a beautiful ceremony with confidence.
What's the most important thing I need to do after I get my ordination certificate? Your very first step should be to contact the county clerk's office in the location where the wedding will happen. This is the single most important action you can take. Introduce yourself as the officiant and ask them exactly what paperwork they require from you. They are the final authority on local marriage laws, and a quick phone call will give you clear, accurate instructions and ensure the couple's marriage is completely legal.
