How to Get Married in NYC | City Hall

Learn all about getting married in New York City Hall from an experienced NYC elopement photographer

First of all, congratulations on considering getting married at NYC. New York City Hall is one of the most iconic and well-known city halls in the world, attracting thousands of couples each year who wish to celebrate their union in the heart of NYC. 
This step-by-step guide on how to get married in NYC will walk you through the basic information you need to know to legally and smoothly get married at New York City Hall.

Obtain Your New York City Marriage License

Before you can have your wedding ceremony at New York City Hall, you must first apply for a Marriage License. You may apply it online or in person through the official NYC Cupid portal. Proper identification needed to apple (State ID/Passport, an official identification with your photograph and birth date). If you have been married before, you will need proof any previous marriage has ended. (Divorce or death certificate). Application fee $35 After the license is issued, there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before your ceremony can legally take place. The Marriage License is valid for 60 days, allowing sufficient time to plan and schedule your ceremony.

Schedule and Complete New York City Hall Marriage Ceremony

Although you are allowed to schedule your marriage ceremony before obtaining your license, the license must be issued at least 24 hours prior to the ceremony. The ceremony must take place within 60 days from the date the license was issued. You must bring at least one witness who is 18 years of age or older. If you do not have a witness, it is often possible to ask your wedding photographer or even a fellow visitor at City Hall to act as one.

Booking a wedding Appointment at New York City Hall

Marriage ceremony appointment slots at New York City Hall are released three weeks in advance, typically on Monday mornings at 9:00 a.m. While many couples are able to secure their preferred date without issue, it is strongly recommended to book your appointment as soon as you have selected your wedding day.

What to Expect on the Day of Your NYC elopement

When you arrive at New York City Hall for your wedding, you will receive a ticket number at check-in. Ceremonies are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis, based on ticket order rather than scheduled appointment time. Your appointment simply reserves your place in the queue; it does not determine the exact time of your ceremony. You should be prepared for a short wait, especially during busier times of the day or week.

You Must Bring The Following

Your valid New York City Marriage License Government-issued photo identification for both parties Your witness, who must be at least 18 years of age

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Frequently Asked Questions About How to get married in NYC

How many guests are we allowed to bring in NYC city hall?

Couples may bring up to 4 guests to their City Hall marriage ceremony. While there is some flexibility for children under 12, the guest limit remains at four for everyone else. If you choose to have a wedding photographer, they will be included in your total guest count.

What time should we arrive before our scheduled ceremony?

Once you get your appointment, they will tell you to arrive 30 minutes early. But in my experience, that is not really needed, at least for ceremonies. As long as you show up on time, you will be fine.

If your appointment is at 1 PM, keep in mind the office is closed from 12 to 1, so they will not open the doors early. Basically, your appointment time is when they let you in. Just be there on time and you will be good.

Is there any waiting time?

Once you are inside, you will go through security and then check in at the front desk. The clerk will check your IDs, or passports if you are from another country, make sure you have a witness over 18 with ID, and give you a numbered ticket. You can have one or two witnesses, and I am always happy to be one if needed. Do not lose the ticket because it is important for your ceremony.

After a short wait, from my experience not more than 30 minutes, your number will be called and you will go to a desk to sign the license with your witness.

Can we take photos while we wait to be called?

The waiting area offers nice backdrops and ample natural light, ideal for sweet, candid shots.

How much is the ceremony fee?

The ceremony fee is $25. Make sure to bring a credit card, as cash is not accepted.

What is the address of City Hall?

City Hall is not the actual location of your wedding ceremony. Your ceremony will be held at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, also known as the City Clerk’s Office.

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they all refer to the same location at 141 Worth Street.

How long is the wedding ceremony?

The ceremony is quick and straightforward. If you want, you can exchange rings, but otherwise it only takes about a minute. Once it’s done, you’re officially married! Personal vows are not allowed during the ceremony.

How much is the total cost to marry in NY city hall?

The marriage license costs $35, and the fee to have your wedding ceremony at the City Clerk’s Office is $25, making the total $60.

Are children allowed at NYC City Hall wedding?

Children under 12 are always welcome at City Hall and do not count toward your guest limit.

Are we able to choose the officiant?

You do not have the option to pick your officiant. The officiants take turns, and one will be assigned to perform your ceremony.

Now that you have a better understanding of how to get married at NYC City Hall, it is the perfect time to start thinking about booking a photographer to capture the intimate moments of your special day. Trust me, you will want to remember this day forever.

As a wife myself, I truly understand the deep emotions behind a wedding. I am not just your photographer; I am also your guide through the City Hall wedding experience. Together, we can create a meaningful and stress-free roadmap for your day.

To explore my pricing and packages, please visit the Experience page.

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