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Who may perform a marriage ceremony?

Marriage ceremonies may be performed by religious leaders (priests, ministers, rabbis, and similar leaders in other religions), and designated public officials (such as judges and county clerks).

May a marriage ceremony be
performed by a ship's captain?

Generally, ship's captains cannot perform marriage ceremonies.

What about marriage ceremonies performed by "mail order ministries"?

Normally, these people may perform marriage ceremonies. States generally do not go behind any church's designation of its ministers.

What if I don't get a marriage license?

Most states will consider the marriage valid even if no license was obtained. But it is a good idea to get a marriage license and go through a ceremony just to remove all doubt.

Is a formal marriage ceremony required?

Unless the marriage is performed by a qualified public or religious authority, it will probably be invalid (except in those states that allow common law marriages).