You know your friends’ love story better than anyone. You know the inside jokes, the little moments that define their relationship, and why they’re perfect for each other. That’s why they asked you to officiate—to bring that personal history to the heart of their ceremony. But before you start writing the script, there’s a crucial legal step you can’t skip. This guide bridges the gap between the personal and the practical. We’ll show you exactly how to get ordained to marry a friend so the beautiful ceremony you perform is also 100% legally binding. We'll cover the paperwork, your official duties, and how to prepare for the big day with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Get ordained, then get the paperwork: While the initial online ordination is often free, your legal authority comes from the official documents you order afterward. You'll need your ordination certificate to prove your status to local officials.
- Master the marriage license process: Your most important legal duty is to handle the marriage license correctly. This means knowing the local filing deadlines and taking responsibility for returning the signed document on time to ensure the marriage is valid.
- Personalize the script and always rehearse: The best ceremonies tell the couple's unique story, so avoid generic templates. A rehearsal is essential for working out the flow, practicing your delivery, and preventing any awkward moments on the wedding day.
What Does It Mean to Be Ordained for a Wedding?
So, you’ve been asked to officiate a friend’s wedding. First of all, congratulations! It’s a huge honor. But before you start writing the perfect ceremony script, there’s one crucial step you need to take: getting ordained. Simply put, getting ordained means a religious organization has given you the legal authority to perform a marriage ceremony. Think of it as your official green light from the state to sign the marriage license and make things official.
Without ordination, you’re just a friend giving a heartfelt speech. With it, you’re the person who legally joins two people in marriage. It might sound formal, but the process is often incredibly straightforward, especially with organizations that offer online ordination. This credential is what empowers you to stand before the happy couple, lead them through their vows, and pronounce them married in the eyes of the law. It’s the foundational step that makes the entire ceremony legitimate, and it's exactly what we help people do here at All Faith Ministry.
Gaining the Legal Authority to Marry a Couple
Getting ordained is how you gain the legal authority to marry a couple. This is your most important function as an officiant. While you’ll also be a source of calm and a storyteller for the couple, your primary legal duty is to solemnize the marriage. This is done by witnessing the couple’s consent, leading the ceremony, and signing the marriage license. Once you apply for ordination and receive your credentials, you are granted the same legal standing as a judge or traditional clergy member for the purpose of officiating a wedding. This authority is what allows you to turn a beautiful ceremony into a legally recognized union.
Religious vs. Civil Ordination: What's the Difference?
You might hear terms like "religious" and "civil" ceremonies. A civil ceremony is typically performed by a state official, like a judge or justice of the peace. A religious ceremony is performed by someone ordained through a religious organization. When you get ordained online through a ministry, you are receiving a religious ordination. However, this does not mean the wedding has to be religious. Your ordination is about your legal status to perform the marriage, not the content of the ceremony. You can create a ceremony that is completely secular, spiritual, or anything in between. The key is that your ordination is recognized by the local government. Since requirements can vary, it’s always a good idea to check your local state laws to ensure you have everything you need.
Why Should You Be the One to Marry Your Friends?
When your friends ask you to officiate their wedding, it’s more than just an invitation—it’s a huge honor. They’re trusting you with one of the most important moments of their lives. Stepping into this role means you get to support them in a truly unique way, turning their ceremony into something deeply personal and memorable. Beyond the honor, there are some incredible, practical reasons why having a friend lead the ceremony is a fantastic choice for everyone involved. You bring a perspective that no hired professional ever could, making their big day even more special.
Create a Ceremony That's Truly Personal
As a friend, you have a backstage pass to the couple’s love story. You know their inside jokes, the story of their first date, and the little quirks that make their relationship work. This unique insight allows you to craft a ceremony that’s anything but generic. You can share meaningful anecdotes and heartfelt observations that a hired officiant simply wouldn't know. The goal is for every guest to feel like they’ve learned something new and beautiful about the couple. By weaving their history into the ceremony, you create an experience that genuinely reflects who they are, making the moment unforgettable for them and everyone witnessing it. This personal touch is a gift that only a friend can give.
Help the Couple Save on Wedding Costs
Let’s be honest: weddings are expensive. The costs can add up quickly, and couples often look for ways to save without sacrificing meaning. By getting ordained and officiating their wedding, you’re giving them an incredible gift. Professional officiants can cost several hundred dollars or more. In contrast, becoming legally recognized to perform a wedding is often very affordable. You can apply for ordination online with a reputable organization, and the main costs are typically for your official documents. This allows your friends to allocate that part of their budget to other priorities, like the honeymoon or a down payment on a home. It’s a practical and deeply meaningful way to support their new life together.
Offer Ultimate Flexibility for Their Big Day
When you officiate for your friends, you give them the freedom to design a ceremony that feels right for them. They aren't tied to a stranger's pre-written scripts or rigid traditional structures. Do they want to include a favorite poem, have their dog act as the ring bearer, or skip traditional vows for something more personal? You can help them do it. Your role is to support their vision and ensure the ceremony is a true reflection of their personalities and values. Our wedding officiant training can give you the confidence to guide them through this process, helping them build a ceremony from the ground up that is completely, authentically theirs.
How to Get Ordained Online: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a wedding officiant is one of the most rewarding ways to support people you care about, and getting ordained online is more straightforward than you might think. The entire process can be broken down into a few simple steps that give you the legal standing to perform a marriage ceremony. It’s not about lengthy training or complex religious doctrine; it’s about getting the proper authority from a recognized organization so you can sign that marriage license with confidence.
Think of it as a three-part journey. First, you’ll need to find a reputable organization to get ordained through. This is the most important step, as it establishes the legal foundation for your role. Next, you’ll complete a simple application to make it official. Finally, you’ll receive your ordination credentials, which are the documents you’ll need to prove your status. Let’s walk through each step together so you know exactly what to do.
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Organization
Your first move is to select a reputable organization to become ordained through. This is crucial because your legal authority to officiate a wedding comes directly from the church or ministry that ordains you. You want to partner with an established organization that is legally recognized and provides support to its ministers. While options like the Universal Life Church or American Marriage Ministries exist, it’s important to choose a group that feels right for you. A good organization will not only grant you legal status but also offer resources to help you succeed. At All Faith Ministry, we are dedicated to helping you become an ordained minister and feel fully prepared to create a beautiful ceremony.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Once you’ve found an organization you trust, the next step is to fill out their ordination application. You’ll probably be surprised by how quick and easy this part is. Most applications are simple online forms that ask for your legal name, address, and email. This isn’t a test or a lengthy questionnaire about your beliefs. It’s a straightforward registration that officially establishes you as a minister under that organization’s authority. The moment you submit the form, you are typically considered ordained. You can apply for ordination with us in just a few minutes and take the official first step toward officiating your first wedding.
Step 3: Receive Your Ordination Credentials
After you’ve been ordained, you’ll need the paperwork to prove it. Your ordination credentials are the official documents that verify your status as a minister. These typically include an ordination certificate and sometimes a Letter of Good Standing, which you may need to present to the local county clerk when the couple gets their marriage license. While the online ordination itself is often free, you will need to order these physical documents. Think of them as your official toolkit—they are essential for ensuring the ceremony you perform is legally binding. You can find everything you need, from certificates to complete wedding kits, in the AFM Store.
Where Can You Get Ordained Online?
A quick search for online ordination will show you just how many options are out there. It can feel a little overwhelming, but the good news is that getting ordained online is usually a straightforward process. The most important thing is to choose a reputable organization whose credentials are legally recognized in the state where the wedding will take place. This ensures the marriage you perform is 100% valid—which is, after all, the whole point!
When you're comparing different ministries, think about what you need. Are you just looking for the legal paperwork to sign a marriage license for your best friends? Or are you interested in building your confidence with some training and resources? Some organizations focus solely on providing the legal ordination, while others offer a full suite of tools, from ceremony script builders to in-depth training courses. Many organizations offer free ordination, but keep in mind that you'll almost always need to purchase official documents, like your ordination certificate or a letter of good standing, to register with the local government. Look for organizations with clear information about their legal standing, positive reviews from other officiants, and transparent pricing for any necessary documents or materials. To help you get started, I’ve pulled together a few of the most popular and trusted organizations that can get you ordained and ready for the big day.
All Faith Ministry
If you’re looking for an organization that provides both legal ordination and the guidance to perform a beautiful ceremony, All Faith Ministry is a fantastic choice. We believe that officiating a wedding is a huge honor, and we want you to feel completely prepared. That’s why we offer comprehensive wedding officiant training to help you perform a legally recognized ceremony with confidence. When you apply for ordination with us, you’re choosing to become an official, legally recognized wedding officiant who can perform marriage ceremonies in any state. It’s about more than just a certificate; it’s about having the support you need to create a truly memorable moment for the couple.
Universal Life Church
The Universal Life Church (ULC) is one of the most well-known names in online ordination. It’s a popular choice for many first-time officiants because the process is typically very fast and straightforward. The ULC’s core belief is that all individuals have the right to control their own spiritual lives, and its ordination is open to people of all backgrounds and beliefs. Their ordinations are widely recognized as legal across the United States, making them a reliable option if you need to get ordained quickly to officiate a wedding for a friend or family member.
American Marriage Ministries
American Marriage Ministries, or AMM, is another excellent and widely respected option. AMM offers a free online service to help you become a legally recognized wedding officiant. They are a certified 501(c)(3) non-profit church, which adds a strong layer of credibility to their ordinations. One of the best things about AMM is their commitment to inclusivity; their ordination is open to everyone, regardless of their personal beliefs or background. They provide a user-friendly platform with plenty of resources to help you understand your local legal requirements and prepare for the ceremony.
Open Ministry
Open Ministry provides a simple and accessible platform for anyone looking to become an ordained minister online. Like the other organizations on this list, they are non-denominational and welcome people from all walks of life. A key focus for Open Ministry is providing resources and support to ensure new officiants feel ready to perform their duties effectively. They offer various packages that include your official ordination credentials, letters of good standing, and other materials you might need to register with local authorities. It’s a solid choice for those who want a clear path to becoming a legal officiant.
Do You Know Your State's Legal Requirements?
Getting ordained is an exciting first step, but it’s not the only one. To make sure your friends' marriage is official in the eyes of the law, you need to understand the specific rules for where the ceremony is taking place. Think of it this way: your ordination gives you the authority, but the state and local government set the rules of the road. And trust me, these rules can change dramatically from one state line to the next, and sometimes even between counties.
This might sound a little intimidating, but it’s really just about doing your homework to protect the couple. The last thing you want is for a paperwork mix-up to cast a shadow on their big day. Taking the time to confirm the legal requirements ensures their marriage is valid from the moment they say "I do." This is also where choosing a reputable organization to get ordained through makes a huge difference. A good ministry won't just give you a certificate; they'll provide the resources you need to perform your duties correctly and confidently.
Find Your State's Officiant Laws
Every state has its own laws that spell out exactly who is qualified to solemnize a marriage. In some states, the rules are pretty relaxed, while others have more specific requirements for ministers and officiants. For example, North Carolina law explicitly allows ordained ministers from recognized churches to legally perform weddings. Your first task is to find the statute for the state where the wedding will be held—not where you live, or where the couple lives. We’ve put together a guide to help you look up the state-by-state requirements to get you started. It’s the best way to get a clear picture of what’s expected of you.
Understand Local Registration Rules
Once you know the state laws, your next step is to zoom in on the local level. Many states leave it up to individual counties to handle the specifics of marriage licenses and officiant registration. This means the rules in one county could be different from the one right next door. Some county clerks may require you to register in person and show your ordination credentials, while others might not require any registration at all. The only way to know for sure is to call the county clerk’s office where the couple will get their marriage license. A quick, five-minute phone call can save you and the couple a world of stress.
Confirm Your Ordination is Recognized
This is a big one. While there are many places to get ordained online, not all ordinations are created equal. Some states have stricter definitions of what constitutes a "religious organization," and a judge could potentially invalidate a marriage if they find the officiant's ordination isn't from a legitimate body. This can cause serious legal complications for the couple down the road. That’s why it’s so important to secure a reputable ordination from an established ministry that provides verifiable credentials. You’re not just clicking a button; you’re taking on a legal responsibility, and your ordination needs to be able to stand up to scrutiny.
What Paperwork Do You Need to Officiate a Wedding?
Once you’re ordained, you’ll need a few key documents to make everything official. Think of it as the administrative side of becoming a wedding officiant. Getting your paperwork in order is what makes the marriage you perform legally recognized, so it’s a step you can’t skip. While it might sound formal, the process is usually quite simple. It’s all about having the right proof of your status and following local rules. Let’s walk through exactly what you’ll need.
Your Ordination Certificate
This is your golden ticket. Your ordination certificate is the official document proving you have the legal authority to officiate a wedding. After you apply for ordination and are approved, you’ll receive this credential. It’s the foundational piece of paperwork that confirms your status as a minister. You should keep a copy—either physical or digital—with you. The couple may want to see it for their peace of mind, and the county clerk’s office might require it as proof when they file their marriage license. This certificate is your official entry pass into officiating.
Letters of Good Standing
A Letter of Good Standing is a document from your ordaining organization that verifies your ordination is current and valid. While not every state legally requires one, it’s an incredibly useful document to have. Think of it as an extra layer of credibility. Some county clerks or wedding venues may ask for it to confirm your credentials are up to date. Having one on hand shows you’re professional and prepared, which can help put everyone at ease. You can typically order official documents and other helpful officiant supplies from your ordaining organization.
State-Specific Registration Forms
This is where a little local research pays off. Wedding laws vary significantly from one state to another, and sometimes even between counties. Some jurisdictions require officiants to register with the local government before performing a ceremony. This might involve filing a copy of your ordination certificate with the county clerk. Before the wedding, you must check the specific state laws for where the ceremony will take place. A quick search on the county clerk’s website or a phone call can clarify what’s needed to ensure the marriage is legally binding.
How Much Does It Really Cost to Get Ordained?
When you decide to officiate a friend's wedding, one of the first questions that pops into your head is probably about the cost. You’ve likely seen websites advertising "free ordination," which sounds amazing, but it can also feel a little too good to be true. So, what’s the real story? The good news is that getting ordained online can be very affordable, and sometimes the initial step is genuinely free. However, there are a few other potential expenses to keep in mind to make sure you’re legally ready to sign that marriage license.
Think of it less as a single price tag and more as a series of small, manageable steps. The core ordination might not cost you a dime, but you’ll need to budget for official documents and any fees required by the local government. Understanding these costs upfront saves you from any last-minute surprises and ensures you have everything you need to perform a beautiful, and completely legal, ceremony for your friends. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for, so you can plan accordingly and focus on the fun part: celebrating the happy couple.
The Truth About "Free" Ordination
It’s true—you can absolutely get ordained online for free. Many reputable organizations, including our own, offer ordination at no cost because they believe everyone should have the opportunity to officiate for their loved ones. These organizations are often structured as non-profits, allowing them to provide this service as part of their mission. When you apply for ordination, you’re completing the first essential step to gaining the legal authority to perform a marriage ceremony. This initial process is typically quick, straightforward, and doesn't require you to open your wallet. It’s a simple way to get started on your path to becoming a wedding officiant without any financial barriers.
Budgeting for Document Fees
While the ordination itself may be free, you will need official documentation to prove it. Think of it like graduating: the education is the main part, but you still need the physical diploma to show for it. After you’re ordained, you’ll want to order a copy of your ordination certificate and potentially a Letter of Good Standing. These documents are not just for your records; many county clerks will require you to present them when you register as an officiant. Organizations charge a fee for these materials, which helps cover their operational costs. You can find these and other official supplies that will help you prepare for the big day.
Factoring in State Registration Costs
This is the final piece of the puzzle and the one that varies the most. Each state has its own rules for wedding officiants, and some require you to register with a local government office, usually the county clerk. This registration process often comes with a small filing fee, which goes directly to the state or county, not the organization that ordained you. It’s so important to check your state's officiant laws well in advance of the wedding. This will tell you exactly what’s required, how much it costs, and what documents you need to bring with you. Getting this sorted out early ensures you’re fully compliant and ready to go.
What Are Your Legal Duties as an Officiant?
Stepping into the role of an officiant is an incredible honor, but it comes with a few key legal responsibilities. Beyond crafting a beautiful ceremony, your primary duty is to ensure the couple is legally married by the end of the day. It might sound intimidating, but it’s really about handling the paperwork correctly and saying the right words at the right time. Getting these details right is what makes the marriage official in the eyes of the law. Think of yourself as the friendly guide who makes sure all the legal boxes are checked so the couple can focus on celebrating.
Managing the Marriage License
First things first: you are not responsible for getting the marriage license. That task falls to the couple. Your job begins once they have the document in hand. Before the ceremony, you need to see the license, verify that all the information is correct (names, dates, etc.), and check the expiration date. Most licenses are valid for a set period, often 60 days, so you want to make sure you’re not working with an expired document. Once you’ve confirmed everything is in order, keep the license in a safe, clean, and unwrinkled spot until it’s time for the official signing. Knowing the specific state laws around marriage licenses will help you guide the couple with confidence.
Fulfilling Your Role During the Ceremony
While the personal stories and readings are the heart of the ceremony, two key moments are legally required: the Declaration of Intent and the Pronouncement. The Declaration of Intent is the part where each person declares their intention to marry the other—the classic "I do's." The Pronouncement is when you officially pronounce them as married. While you have plenty of creative freedom, these elements must be included for the marriage to be valid. A great ceremony weaves these legal requirements into a narrative that feels authentic to the couple. As you prepare, remember that a guest should always feel as though they’ve learned about the couple through their ceremony. Our wedding officiant training can help you master this balance.
Filing the Paperwork Correctly and On Time
After the vows are exchanged and the couple shares their first kiss, you have one final, critical task. After the ceremony, you, the couple, and their witnesses must sign the marriage license. Make sure everyone signs in the correct spot with the required ink color (usually black). Then, it’s your responsibility to return the signed license to the county clerk’s office before the deadline. This is non-negotiable. Missing the filing deadline can cause serious legal headaches for the couple and could even invalidate their marriage. Fulfilling this duty with care is a core part of an officiant’s code of ethics and the final step in officially uniting your friends.
Common Mistakes First-Time Officiants Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Officiating your first wedding is an incredible honor, but it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous. You’re playing a huge role in one of the most important days of your friends’ lives, and you want to get it right. The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. Most first-time officiant jitters come from the fear of the unknown, but you can sidestep the most common slip-ups just by knowing what they are ahead of time. You've already handled the ordination and the legal side of things, so now it's all about delivering a ceremony that feels authentic and runs smoothly.
From fumbling names to missing critical legal deadlines, these mistakes are more common than you’d think. But don’t worry—they’re also entirely avoidable. Think of this as your friendly cheat sheet for a smooth, confident, and memorable ceremony. It’s not about achieving perfection, but about being present and prepared. By focusing on a few key areas, you can ensure you’re not just a legal stand-in but a genuine, calming presence who helps make the couple’s day truly special. Let’s walk through what to watch out for so you can perform your duties like a seasoned pro and really enjoy the moment alongside your friends.
Forgetting Key Details (Like Their Names!)
It sounds like a scene from a comedy, but under pressure, it’s surprisingly easy to blank on a name or mix up details. The best way to prevent this is to make your script foolproof. Whether you’re using paper or a tablet, go through your ceremony script and highlight the couple’s names every single time they appear. This simple visual cue draws your eye to the most important words on the page, making it nearly impossible to skip over them. It’s also a great idea to practice saying their full names out loud, especially if they’re long or tricky to pronounce. A little muscle memory can be a lifesaver when the nerves kick in.
Skipping the Wedding Rehearsal
Even if the couple wants a relaxed, informal ceremony, you should never skip the rehearsal. This is your chance to do a full run-through, figure out your positioning, and get comfortable with the flow of the ceremony. The rehearsal isn’t just about practicing the words; it’s about working out the logistics. Where will you stand? How will the couple exchange rings? Who has the vows? Answering these questions beforehand prevents awkward pauses and confusion on the wedding day. A quick 30-minute rehearsal can make everyone, including you, feel much more confident and prepared when it’s time for the real thing.
Missing Critical Legal Deadlines
While the ceremony is about love and celebration, your role as an officiant comes with serious legal responsibilities. The most critical task is handling the marriage license correctly. Every state has different rules about when the license needs to be signed and how quickly it must be returned to the county clerk’s office after the ceremony. Missing this deadline can invalidate the marriage. Before the wedding, make sure you understand your state’s specific officiant laws. Confirm the timeline with the couple and make a plan for filing the paperwork immediately after the wedding. This is the one part of the job that has no room for error.
Delivering a Cookie-Cutter Ceremony
The couple asked you to officiate for a reason—they wanted a ceremony that felt personal and unique to them. Resist the temptation to download a generic script online and read it word-for-word. While templates can be a good starting point, the magic happens when you add personal touches. Talk to the couple about their story, what they love about each other, and what marriage means to them. Weave these details into the ceremony. Sharing a short, sweet anecdote or a meaningful quote can transform a standard service into a heartfelt moment everyone will remember. If you need help crafting a personal script, our wedding officiant training can guide you.
How to Prepare for the Big Day
Once your ordination is official and the legal paperwork is sorted, the real fun begins: preparing for the ceremony itself. As a friend, you have the unique ability to create a moment that’s deeply personal and unforgettable. But a great ceremony doesn’t just happen—it’s the result of thoughtful preparation. Focusing on the script, the rehearsal, and your role on the day will help you feel confident and ready to lead a beautiful, seamless ceremony that truly honors the couple.
Write a Ceremony That Tells Their Story
This is your chance to shine. Instead of using a generic script, craft a ceremony that reflects the couple’s unique journey. As officiant Karla Firestone says, "A guest should always feel as though they’ve learned about the couple through their ceremony." Sit down with your friends and ask them about their story—how they met, what they love about each other, and their hopes for the future. Weave these personal anecdotes into the ceremony to make it heartfelt and engaging. A well-written script is the foundation of a memorable wedding, and our Wedding Officiant Training offers templates and guidance to help you get it just right.
Nail the Rehearsal
The wedding rehearsal is your dress rehearsal—don’t skip it! This is your opportunity to run through the entire ceremony, from the processional to the recessional. Practice your script out loud to get your timing and delivery down. One pro tip is to highlight the couple’s names on every page of your script to avoid any embarrassing mix-ups. Use the rehearsal to figure out where everyone will stand, confirm cues with the DJ or musicians, and make sure you know when to step aside for that perfect first-kiss photo. A smooth rehearsal leads to a relaxed and confident performance on the big day.
Know Your Role on the Wedding Day
On the wedding day, you are more than just a speaker; you are the guide for the most important part of the day. Your biggest gift to the couple is to "make a ceremony that feels genuine, personal, and uniquely theirs." Arrive early, check in with the couple, and touch base with the photographer and wedding coordinator. Your calm, steady presence will help set a joyful and relaxed tone. Remember to dress the part and follow the couple’s dress code. Fulfilling your role with professionalism and care is a core part of an officiant's responsibility, something we emphasize in our Code of Ethics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is getting ordained online actually legal for officiating a wedding? Yes, it absolutely is in most states. The key is to get ordained through a reputable religious organization whose credentials are legally recognized. This is what gives you the authority to sign the marriage license. However, laws can vary by state and even by county, so it's essential to check the specific requirements for the location where the wedding will take place. A quick call to the local county clerk’s office is the best way to confirm everything and ensure the marriage is 100% valid.
How long does the entire process take from ordination to being ready for the wedding? The online ordination itself is incredibly fast—you can often complete the application in just a few minutes. The next step is ordering your official documents, like your ordination certificate, which might take a week or so to arrive by mail. The biggest variable is your own preparation time. You'll want to give yourself at least a few weeks to connect with the couple, write a personal ceremony script, and practice your delivery so you feel confident and prepared on the big day.
Do I have to be religious to get ordained through a ministry? Not at all. Most online ministries, including All Faith Ministry, are non-denominational and welcome people of all beliefs and backgrounds. Your ordination is about gaining the legal standing to perform a marriage, not about adhering to a specific religious doctrine. This gives you the freedom to create a ceremony that is secular, spiritual, or anything in between, perfectly matching the couple's wishes.
Once I'm ordained, can I perform weddings in any state? Your ordination itself is generally recognized nationwide, but your ability to officiate is governed by the laws of the state where the ceremony is held. Some states have no registration requirements for officiants, while others may require you to register with the local county clerk's office beforehand. Before you agree to officiate, you must research the specific laws for that state and county to ensure you follow all the necessary steps.
What happens if I make a mistake on the marriage license? The marriage license is a legal document, so it’s important to be careful. If you do make a mistake, do not try to correct it yourself with white-out or by crossing it out. The best course of action is to immediately contact the county clerk’s office that issued the license. They will provide instructions on how to proceed, which might involve the couple getting a duplicate license. This is why it’s a great idea to review the license carefully with the couple before anyone signs.
