Instant certificate. Valid for life. Legally recognized in Ohio.
Get Ordained NowBest months for an outdoor ceremony here: June, August & September (avg 70°F)
Scenic settings for a ceremony: North Swimming Beach, Fischers Pond & Ballast Island
Source: U.S. Census Bureau — 2023 Population Estimates, ACS 5-year estimates & 2020 Census. Wedding estimate: population × Ohio's 2023 CDC marriage rate. Ceremony months: NOAA county climate normals, 1995–2024. Places: USGS Geographic Names Information System.
Same-sex couples have married legally in Ohio since 2015. The story of marriage equality in Ohio →
Plan aheadno waiting period — marry the same day you get the license · 2 witnesses must sign
Online ordination accepted
Registration required
Documents typically requested:
Ohio requires presenting ordination credentials to the probate judge of any county. This is a one-time registration valid statewide. Contact the probate court.
Ohio allows ordained ministers to perform marriages without prior registration.
Ohio Rev. Code § 3101.08Get Ordained
Get ordained online through the Church of Pride for $20. Your ordination is instant, valid for life, and recognized under First Amendment protections. Confirm local requirements with the Ottawa County County clerk before officiating.
Confirm Requirements
Call (419) 734-6830 and confirm that Ottawa County accepts your online ordination. Ask about any documents you’ll need to present.
Prepare Your Documents
Have your ordination certificate, photo id 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 before the deadline — confirm timing with the clerk’s office. This is a critical step — the marriage isn’t official until the license is filed.
Yes — Ottawa County accepts online ordination for wedding officiants. Ohio requires presenting ordination credentials to the probate judge of any county. This is a one-time registration valid statewide. Contact the probate court.
Yes. Register with the county clerk. Bring: Ordination certificate, Photo ID.
2 witnesses must sign the marriage license.
Ottawa County Clerk's Office — 315 Madison Street, Suite 205, Port Clinton, OH 43452 — phone (419) 734-6830.
Get ordained with the Church of Pride. $20, instant certificate, valid for life.
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.