How to Get Ordained and Legally Officiate a Wedding in North Dakota
Your Complete Guide to Officiating a Wedding in North Dakota
North Dakota’s captivating charm, with its expansive prairies, scenic Badlands, and quaint small towns, makes it a remarkable location for couples to tie the knot. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene outdoor ceremony under an endless sky or a cozy indoor celebration in a rustic venue, North Dakota’s landscape offers something special for every couple. For those planning to officiate a wedding in the state, understanding the unique legal requirements and practical steps involved is essential. This guide is designed to walk you through the process and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Why Choose to Get Married in North Dakota?
Beyond its natural beauty, North Dakota offers an inviting blend of tradition and flexibility when it comes to weddings. The state’s welcoming communities, affordable venues, and accessibility for non-residents make it an excellent choice for couples looking for a meaningful yet manageable wedding location. Additionally, the state’s recognition of online ordination ensures friends and family members can easily become officiants, adding a personal touch to the ceremony.
General Tips for Officiating a Wedding
Officiating a wedding is both an honor and a responsibility. Here are some general tips to ensure the ceremony is memorable and meaningful:
- Meet with the Couple in Advance: Take the time to sit down with the couple to understand their vision for the ceremony. Discuss their preferences, religious or cultural elements, and any personal touches they’d like to include.
- Write a Personalized Ceremony Script: Craft a ceremony script that reflects the couple’s personalities and relationship. Consider using tools like those provided by Provenance.co to create a heartfelt and customized script.
- Practice the Ceremony: Rehearse your part in the ceremony, including any readings, vows, or symbolic rituals. Familiarity with the script will help you stay confident and composed.
- Coordinate with Other Participants: Work with the wedding planner, photographer, and other key individuals to ensure the ceremony flows smoothly. Be mindful of moments like the first kiss, stepping aside to allow for clear photos.
- Stay Organized with Paperwork: Ensure you’ve reviewed the marriage license and understand how to complete and submit it after the ceremony. This is a critical step in making the marriage legally binding.
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in North Dakota?
North Dakota’s laws allow various individuals to officiate weddings, offering couples flexibility in choosing someone meaningful to them.
Authorized Officiants
- Judges: All judges of courts of record in the state.
- Municipal Judges: These officials can also conduct wedding ceremonies.
- Recorders: Unless the county commissioners designate a different official.
- Ordained Ministers and Clergy: This includes individuals ordained online by organizations like The Provenance Center.
To officiate a wedding in North Dakota, you must be at least 18 years old. The state recognizes online ordination, meaning officiants ordained through organizations like The Provenance Center are fully legitimate.
How to Become an Officiant in North Dakota
Becoming an officiant in North Dakota is straightforward. Here’s how you can get started:
- Get Ordained Online: Visit The Provenance Center to complete the online ordination process. It’s quick, easy, and often free.
- Gather Required Documents: Check with the local recorder’s office to determine what documentation is needed, as requirements can vary by county.
- Understand Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with North Dakota’s officiant requirements to ensure compliance with state laws.
Keep your ordination credentials handy, as you may need to provide them to local authorities.
How to Officiate a Wedding in North Dakota
Officiating a wedding involves more than leading the ceremony. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure everything is legally recognized:
Conducting the Ceremony
- Ensure Both Parties Are Present: Proxy marriages are not allowed in North Dakota; both individuals must be physically present.
- Have Witnesses Present: At least two witnesses are required to attend the ceremony.
- Pronounce the Couple Married: During the ceremony, you must formally declare the couple as married.
- Prepare the Ceremony Script: A well-prepared script makes the ceremony personal and memorable. Visit Provenance.co for tools to help create a customized script.
Post-Ceremony Paperwork
After the ceremony, you must:
- Complete the marriage license and certificate, including the full names of the parties before and after marriage.
- Obtain signatures from the two witnesses.
- Submit the completed paperwork to the issuing office within five days to avoid penalties.
How to Fill Out a Marriage License in North Dakota
Accurate completion of the marriage license is crucial for legal recognition. Follow these steps:
- Include Full Names: Ensure both parties’ full names (before and after marriage) are recorded correctly.
- Gather Witness Signatures: Two witnesses must sign the document.
- Provide Officiant Information: Include your name, title, and the organization with which you’re ordained.
- Submit the License: Return the paperwork to the county recorder’s office within five days.
Additional Information on North Dakota Marriage Laws
Marriage License Application
Couples must apply for a marriage license together in person at the county recorder’s office. They need to bring:
- Government-issued photo IDs
- Social Security number
- Divorce decrees (if applicable)
The license fee is $65, with an additional $30 if the ceremony takes place at the courthouse.
Marriage Requirements
- Minimum Age: Both parties must be 18 years old, or 16 with parental consent.
- Marriage Equality: Same-sex marriages are recognized.
- Prohibited Marriages: Marriages between close relatives, such as first cousins, are not allowed.
Marriage License Validity
- Validity Period: Licenses are valid for 60 days.
- Submission Deadline: Paperwork must be returned within five days after the ceremony.
FAQs About Officiating a Wedding in North Dakota
Can a friend or family member officiate our wedding?
Yes, if they are ordained through an organization like The Provenance Center.
Do we need witnesses for our wedding?
Yes, at least two witnesses are required.
How soon do we need to return the marriage license?
It must be returned within five days of the ceremony.
Can non-residents get married in North Dakota?
Yes, but they must obtain the marriage license in the county where the ceremony will take place.
How much does a marriage license cost?
The fee is $65, with an additional $30 for courthouse ceremonies.
What documents are required to apply for a marriage license?
Government-issued photo IDs, Social Security number, and divorce decrees if applicable.
Are online ordinations recognized in North Dakota?
Yes, ordinations from organizations like The Provenance Center are recognized.
Can couples choose their surnames after marriage?
Yes, couples can decide their surnames when applying for the license.
Is ULC or AMM a legitimate site for ordination?
While organizations like ULC and AMM may also be valid, The Provenance Center is preferred for its focus on personal and legal clarity.
Final Thoughts
Officiating a wedding is both a privilege and a responsibility. By taking the proper steps to get ordained, preparing thoroughly, and adhering to Noth Dakota's legal requirements, you can help create a memorable and legally sound ceremony. To learn more about becoming an officiant, check out the Guide to Becoming a Wedding Officiant. For state-specific ordination details, visit Which States Allow Officiants Ordained Online.
Please Note: State and county marriage certificate requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Everyone’s situation is different, and we would always advise that you contact the office of your local marriage authority or a licensed attorney to address any specific questions or concerns you may have. While Provenance will aim to update this information as relevant and as able, you should reach out to the local county clerk for the most up to date information.
