Notarized Letter of Good Standing

Some U.S. states and counties have stricter requirements for officiating weddings, requiring ordained ministers to present a Notarized Letter of Good Standing in order to perform the ceremony legally. This additional step ensures the authenticity of the minister’s credentials.

Here are some states or counties where a Notarized Letter of Good Standing may be required:

States/Counties Requiring a Notarized Letter of Good Standing:

1. Nevada – Certain counties, such as Clark County (Las Vegas), require a notarized Letter of Good Standing to register ministers for officiating weddings.
2. Virginia – Some courts in Virginia may request a notarized Letter of Good Standing when ministers file for credentials to perform marriages.
3. New York (Certain Counties) – For example, in New York City, ministers are sometimes required to submit a notarized Letter of Good Standing when registering to officiate a wedding.
4. Hawaii – Hawaii requires ministers to register with the Department of Health, and in some cases, they may require a notarized Letter of Good Standing.
5. Louisiana – In some parishes, ministers may be required to present a notarized Letter of Good Standing to officiate weddings legally.
6. Oklahoma – Some counties in Oklahoma may ask for a notarized Letter of Good Standing to ensure the validity of ordination credentials.

Important Considerations:

• County-Specific Requirements: Even within states that require a Letter of Good Standing, the requirement for notarization can vary by county. Ministers should contact the local county clerk’s office to confirm whether a notarized version is necessary.
• Out-of-State Ministers: For ministers who are not residents of the state where they are officiating, the notarization requirement may be more likely to apply.

It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or the county clerk where the marriage will take place to ensure compliance with all legal requirements for officiating a wedding.