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1. Who needs to be present to apply for a marriage license?

Both individuals getting married must be present to apply for a marriage license. A representative cannot apply for the license on behalf of the couple. This applies even if the representative has been given Power of Attorney. Notarized marriage license affidavits signed by the individuals getting married cannot be substituted for their personal appearance.

2. Do you need an appointment to apply for a marriage license?

No, an appointment is not required to apply for a marriage license. You must complete the marriage license application online. Please note, you must arrive no later than 4:00 pm to receive same day service to obtain a marriage license.

3. Is there a waiting period once I apply for a marriage license?

If the applicants are both present with all the required documents, a marriage license will be issued immediately. Although the marriage license is issued, the marriage ceremony may not take place within 24 hours from the exact time that the license was issued.

4. Where do I obtain a copy of my divorce record?

In New York State, divorce records are maintained by the County Clerk in the county where the divorce action was heard. You can reach the Suffolk County Clerk’s office at 631-852-2000.

5. Will you accept a Puerto Rican birth certificates issued prior to July 1, 2010 for use in issuing a marriage license?

No. As of November 1, 2010, the Puerto Rican Government invalidated all Puerto Rican birth certificates issued before July 1, 2010.

The government of Puerto Rico enacted a new law (Law 191 of 2009, amended June 2010) to strengthen the issuance and usage of birth certificates, to combat fraud and to protect the identity and credit of all people born in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rican-born citizens living stateside can apply for a certificate online or by mail. Please visit the Puerto Rico website for more information on applying for a Puerto Rico-issued birth certificate.