In New York, the photo identity documentation must be current and valid such as birth certificate, baptismal record, naturalization record, or census record.

New York has a twenty-four (24) hour waiting period to get married. The applicant does not have to be a resident of New York.

If previously married, the applicant must show certified documents on how the previous marriage ended.

The cost for getting married in New York is approximately $40.00 – $50.00 in most areas of the state. There are no other tests.

Cousin marriages are allowed. Proxy marriages and common-law marriages are not allowed; however, New York does recognize same-sex marriages.

If the applicants are 16 or 17 years of age, they will need to have a completed parental consent form filled out by both parents. If the applicants are either 14 or 15 years of age, they will need to show the written consent of both parents and a justice of the Supreme Court or a judge of the local Family Court. Applicants under 14 years of age cannot marry.

The officiant must be an authorized, officially ordained member of the clergy or a public official in the State of New York such as a mayor, city clerk, deputy city clerk, appointed marriage officer, justice, or judge. A marriage ceremony must have at least one witness.

The license is valid for sixty days (60).

The New York State Department of Health maintains a website, “Getting Married in New York State,” that gives current, official information on the legal requirements for marriage in New York State.