Elopements may be more intimate and low-key than traditional weddings, but they still deserve thoughtful planning and guidance. As a NYC City Hall elopement photographer, I’ve spent years learning every detail of the courthouse wedding process — from scheduling and logistics to timelines and photo-friendly locations.


This NYC City Hall wedding guide was created to help you feel calm, confident, and fully prepared for your elopement — with all the practical steps and personal support you need.


This is just a glimpse of the intentional, hands-on experience you’ll receive when you book me to capture your special day.

Intimate wedding moment on the steps of the Manhattan City Clerk’s Office
Bride at Manhattan Marriage Bureau signing official documents before courthouse wedding

How to Get a Marriage License for a NYC City Hall Wedding


Before you can get married at NYC City Hall, the first step is to apply for your New York marriage license. This legal document is required for all weddings in New York State — including civil ceremonies at the Marriage Bureau or City Hall.


Here’s everything you need to know to get your marriage license successfully:


How to Schedule a Marriage License Appointment

  • You must schedule an appointment — walk-ins are not allowed.
  • Appointments are released about 3 weeks in advance.
  • You can choose to apply in person or virtually.
  • Schedule your appointment via Project Cupid (the NYC Marriage Bureau’s official site).

Marriage License Eligibility Requirements

  • Both people must be present together during the appointment (whether in person or virtual).
  • You must both be physically located in New York State at the time of the appointment.
  • Proxy marriages are not allowed (you can’t send someone else in your place).

Marriage License Cost

  • The license fee is $35, payable by credit card or money order to the City Clerk.

Documents You’ll Need

  • Valid photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license, or state ID).
  • If you’ve been married before, bring divorce or annulment information (dates, documents, etc.).

License Validity + Waiting Period

  • Your marriage license is valid for 60 days.
  • There is a 24-hour waiting period after the license is issued before you can have your ceremony.
  • Tip: Apply early enough to plan ahead, but not so early that your license expires before your wedding date.
Bride and groom exchanging vows at New York City Hall during courthouse elopement
Bride signing marriage paperwork at New York City courthouse before civil ceremony

 

What to Expect on Your NYC City Hall Wedding Day


Once you arrive at the New York City Marriage Bureau for your ceremony, here’s what to expect from start to finish:


Security & Check-In

  • You’ll enter through a security checkpoint, similar to airport security.
  • After clearing security, you’ll show your ID and receive a numbered ticket.

Before the Ceremony

  • While waiting to be called, you’ll fill out final paperwork with your partner.
  • Be sure to bring your marriage license, photo ID, and witness.

How to Schedule Your City Hall Ceremony

  • Ceremony appointments are required — walk-ins are not allowed.
  • Book your ceremony at Project Cupid.
  • Appointments open about 3 weeks in advance, released on Mondays at 9 AM EST.

The Ceremony Itself

  • Ceremonies take place in a private room with a City Clerk officiant.
  • The ceremony is short and sweet — usually 2 to 5 minutes.
  • Afterward, you’ll receive a short-form marriage certificate as proof of your marriage.

Ceremony Fee

  • The ceremony costs $25, payable by credit card or money order.

Guest Limit

  • You can bring up to 4 guests total, including your photographer.

Witness Requirements

  • You need at least one witness, age 18 or older, with valid ID.
  • Don’t have someone? I’m always honored to serve as your witness if needed!

 

Editorial-style photo of couple eloping at NYC City Hall courthouse
Candid moment of couple during City Hall wedding in downtown Manhattan

How to Get Your NYC Marriage Certificate and Apostille


If you plan to use your New York City marriage certificate outside the U.S., you may need an apostille to have your marriage legally recognized in another country. Check with your country’s consulate to confirm their requirements.


The apostille process can be done in person or by mail, but keep in mind the mail option can take several weeks or even months—so plan ahead!


Step 1: Obtain Your Extended Marriage Certificate

  • After your City Hall wedding, you’ll receive a short-form marriage certificate.
  • To get the extended (long-form) certificate, which includes additional details, you must visit the NYC Marriage Bureau.
  • The extended certificate fee is $35.
  • Book a records appointment through Project Cupid to request this.
  • If you can’t visit in person, you can request the certificate by mail—note this can take 4–6 weeks.

Step 2: Get Your Certificate Certified by the County Clerk

  • Take your extended certificate to the New York County Clerk’s Office at 60 Centre Street, Room 141B for certification.
  • If you prefer, you can mail it to: County Clerk of New York County, 60 Centre Street, Room 161, New York, NY 10007
  • Include a certified personal check or U.S. postal money order payable to County Clerk of New York County.
  • The certification fee is $3 (cash for in-person or included with your payment by mail).

Step 3: Obtain the Apostille from the New York State Department of State

  • After certification, bring your document to the New York State Department of State at 123 William Street, 19th Floor to get the apostille.
  • Walk-in hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM – 4 PM.
  • You can also mail your request — expect a processing time of 4–6 weeks.
  • Visit the Department of State’s apostille information page for full mailing instructions.

I hope this guide has helped you get started on your NYC City Hall wedding journey. If you’re ready to take the next step or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m excited to support you and capture your special day!