New York Marriage License Guide (2026)

Fees and rules for all 62 New York counties · Updated 2026

New York marriage licenses are issued by any town or city clerk, not the County Clerk (DRL Sec. 13); in New York City they come from the NYC City Clerk's Marriage Bureau. The fee is $40 statewide ($35 in NYC), with a 24-hour waiting period, and the license is valid 60 days. A license issued anywhere in NY is valid anywhere in NY.

The process

1. Apply at a town or city clerk

   Apply with any town or city clerk in New York; in NYC, the NYC City Clerk's Marriage Bureau by appointment (start online via Project Cupid).

2. Both parties appear in person

   Both parties appear in person with photo ID.

3. Wait 24 hours

   There is a 24-hour waiting period after issuance, which is judicially waivable.

4. Pay the fee

   $40 statewide, including the Certificate of Marriage Registration ($35 in NYC).

5. Marry within 60 days

   The license is valid 60 days beginning the day after issuance (180 days for active military). One witness (18+) is needed at the ceremony.

Marriage license fees by county — all 62 New York counties

The County Clerk does not issue marriage licenses in New York; the fee shown is the statewide $40 charged by your town or city clerk ($35 in NYC).

New York-specific details

What to bring

• Both parties, in person
• Photo ID for each party
• The fee ($40 statewide; $35 in NYC)
• One witness age 18 or older at the ceremony
• In NYC, a Project Cupid appointment

Frequently asked questions