How to Officiate a Wedding in Chautauqua County, New York
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Instant certificate. Valid for life. Legally recognized in New York.
Get Ordained NowOfficiant Requirements
Online ordination accepted
No registration required
Documents typically requested:
- Ordination certificate
- Photo ID
- Letter of good standing (NYC only)
New York accepts online ordinations. NYC requires additional registration with the City Clerk. Outside NYC, most counties accept online ordination without registration. Verify with the local clerk.
New York State Law
New York authorizes 'a clergyman or minister of any religion' to perform marriages. The state broadly interprets 'clergyman or minister' and online ordinations are generally accepted, though a 2007 court case (Riepe v. Riepe) raised questions that were later resolved in favor of online ordination.
New York Domestic Relations Law § 11Marriage License Info
- Waiting Period
- 24 hours (may be waived by judge)
- License Valid For
- 60 days
- Witnesses Required
- 2
- Blood Test Required
- No
- Return Deadline
- 5 days
County Clerk Contact
Step-by-Step Guide
Get Ordained
Get ordained online through the Church of Pride for $20. Your ordination is instant, valid for life, and legally recognized in New York.
Confirm Requirements
Call (716) 753-4331 and confirm that Chautauqua County accepts your online ordination. Ask about any documents you’ll need to present.
Prepare Your Documents
Have your ordination certificate, photo id, letter of good standing (nyc only) ready for the ceremony and to present to the clerk if asked.
Perform the Ceremony
Officiate the wedding ceremony. Make sure both parties and any required witnesses sign the marriage license. Keep the tone personal and celebratory — this is their day.
Return the License
Return the signed marriage license to the Chautauqua County clerk within 5 days. This is a critical step — the marriage isn’t official until the license is filed.
Resources
Other New York Counties
Ready to Officiate?
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Get Ordained — $20Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Marriage laws change frequently and can vary by county. Always verify current requirements with the local county clerk's office before officiating any ceremony. Information was last reviewed 2026-02-20.