Summary for New Hampshire Marriage Requirements

Marriage License Facts:

• Type of Ceremony: Religious for Ministries of Love officiants.
• Mandatory Waiting Period: None.
• License Validity: 90 days from issuance.
• Submission Deadline: Within 6 days of the ceremony.

Couples can apply for a marriage license in any city or town in New Hampshire, and it will be valid throughout the state. Marriages are legally binding once the completed license and certificate are returned to the issuing city or town clerk, either in person or via mail, within six days of the ceremony.

Requirements for the Minister:

• Minimum Age: 18 years.
• Residency: Not required.
• Documents Needed: Varies by county; special license required for non-residents.
• Relevant Office of Registration: Secretary of State.
• Special Notes: Out-of-state ministers must obtain a special license from the Secretary of State before the ceremony. Proof of ordination may be required.

Ministers officiating in New Hampshire must be at least 18 years old and may be required to present ordination credentials. Non-resident ministers must secure a special license from the Secretary of State to officiate in the state. Self-officiated weddings are not allowed. All officiants are legally required to report weddings they preside over.

Wedding Ceremony Requirements:

• Marriage by Proxy: Not allowed.
• Minister Presence: Required.
• Witnesses: None required.
• Couple’s Consent: Required.
• Pronouncement: Required.

Both the couple and the officiating minister must be physically present at the ceremony. While witnesses are not mandatory, the couple must formally consent to the marriage (commonly known as the “I Do” moment). The officiant must then pronounce the couple married to legally solemnize the union.

Final Steps for the Officiant:

• Title on License: Minister.
• Church/Ordaining Body: Ministries of Love.
• Address of Church: Minister’s home address.

The officiant must complete the marriage license by including:

• The date and location of the ceremony.
• Their full name, title, and home address.
• A signature certifying they are authorized to solemnize the marriage.

The officiant is responsible for returning the completed license and certificate to the issuing city clerk within six days of the ceremony. Failure to comply with this deadline may result in legal consequences.