Ohio Wedding Laws

What to expect when officiating a wedding.

Wedding Ceremony Requirements

Marriage By Proxy: Not Allowed
Minister Required to Be Present: Yes
Witnesses Required: None
Couple’s Consent Required: Yes
Pronouncement Required: Yes

Both members of the couple and the minister must be physically present for the wedding ceremony. Witnesses are not required, but the couple must verbally consent to the marriage (e.g., “I do”), followed by the minister’s pronouncement of the union.

Requirements for the Couple

Minimum Age: 18 (17 with Judicial Consent)
Residency: Not Required
Kinship Restrictions: No Closer Than Second Cousins
Marriage Equality: Yes

Couples must be 18 or older to marry without restrictions. Those aged 17 may marry with judicial consent, provided the other partner is not more than four years older. Same-sex marriages are legally recognized.

Marriage License Requirements

Who Picks Up License: The Couple
Where License is Valid: Any County in Ohio
Marriage License Pick-Up: In Person Only
Cost of License: Varies ($40–$80)
Accepted ID: Photo ID
Proof of Divorce: Required if Applicable
Blood Test: Not Required

Both members of the couple must apply in person at the probate court in the county where one resides. Out-of-state couples must apply in the county where the ceremony will take place. Applicants must provide personal details, including parental information, prior marriages, and relevant divorce documents, under oath.

Marriage License Facts

Ceremony Type: Religious
Mandatory Waiting Period: None
License Valid For: 60 Days
License Must Be Submitted: Within 30 Days of Ceremony

Marriage licenses are valid immediately upon issuance and for 60 days. Officiants must ensure the marriage certificate is completed and returned to the issuing probate court within 30 days of the ceremony.

Requirements for the Minister

Minimum Age: 18
Residency: Not Required
Documents Required: Letter of Good Standing and Ordination Credential
Online Ordination Recognized: Yes
Registration Office: Secretary of State
Document Submission Deadline: Before Ceremony

Authorized officiants include county court judges, mayors, and religious leaders, including those ordained online by Ministries of Love. Ministers must register with the Ohio Secretary of State by providing ordination credentials and a letter of good standing. A special license is issued, authorizing them to perform weddings in Ohio.

Final Steps

Officiant’s Title on Marriage License: Minister
Church/Ordaining Body: Ministries of Love
Address of Church: Minister’s Home Address

It is the minister’s responsibility to ensure the marriage certificate is completed accurately, including their title, religious organization (Ministries of Love), and home address. The certificate must be submitted to the probate court that issued the license within 30 days of the ceremony.