How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in NYC? The Price of Love (Sort Of)
So, you're ready to tie the knot in the Big Apple, huh? Congrats! Before you start planning the ultimate wedding, let's talk about the less romantic, but equally important, topic: the marriage license.
Love is Free, but the License Isn't (Much)
You might be thinking, "Love is free, right?" Well, yeah, but the government still wants a cut. In the case of New York City, that cut is a measly $35. Yep, you read that right. For a piece of paper that essentially says, "It's official, you two are now legally bound," you'll shell out a whopping $35.
Now, before you start complaining about the price of love, let's put things into perspective. You're probably going to spend way more on flowers, the venue, and that open bar than on the license. So, let's just say it's a small price to pay for a lifetime of... well, hopefully happiness.
How to Get Your Hands on That Precious Piece of Paper
Getting a marriage license in NYC isn't exactly rocket science, but it does require a bit of planning.
- Online or In-Person: You can apply for your license online or in person. Online is probably the way to go if you're the type of person who hates waiting in lines. Just head over to nyc.gov/cupid and follow the prompts. If you prefer the human touch, you can make an appointment to apply in person at the City Clerk's office.
- Bring Your IDs: Don't forget to bring your valid government-issued IDs. This is usually a driver's license or a passport.
- Payment: You can pay the $35 fee by credit card or money order. No cash, unfortunately.
Important Things to Know
- Valid for 60 Days: Your marriage license is only valid for 60 days after it's issued. So, make sure to schedule your wedding within that timeframe.
- New York State Only: This license is only valid for weddings in New York State. If you're planning a destination wedding, you'll need to get a license in the state where you're getting married.
- Duplicate License: If you lose your marriage license, you can get a duplicate for a fee of $25. Just make sure to schedule an appointment at the City Clerk's office.
How To Questions
How to apply for a marriage license in NYC? You can apply online at nyc.gov/cupid or in person at the City Clerk's office.How much does a marriage license cost in NYC? The fee is $35.How long is a NYC marriage license valid? It's valid for 60 days after it's issued.How to pay for a marriage license? You can pay by credit card or money order.What to bring when applying for a marriage license? You'll need valid government-issued IDs for both you and your partner.