Each state has its own marriage laws regarding who has the authority to perform marriage – or who can legally marry a couple. In legal terms, this act is referred to as "Solemnization of Marriage". Although the wording and specifics of the laws vary from state to state, in all states, ordained ministers have the authority to solemnize marriage. In other words, being an ordained minister gives you the authority to act as a wedding officiant in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Washington DC, and US Territories.

But knowing who can legally marry a couple varies. Beyond being an ordained minister, some states require ministers to register with a government office prior to performing marriage. That's because some states keep a registry of who is a wedding officiant. These states may also require that certain documents are presented, and that certain applications are filled out and submitted. Because the laws regarding who can legally perform marriage are governed on a state level, local governments are allowed to set their own rules.

Please verify compliance with your local government and seek their advice (or that of a lawyer) if you have further questions. The state marriage laws indicate if minister registration is required in that state.

The Minister’s Marriage Licence is granted by the Minister of Justice giving authority to a Marriage Officer to marry a couple (man and woman), in Jamaica, in keeping with the Marriage Act.