Let’s say you have a friend who would like have a wedding on the beach in New Jersey, but can’t find a minister to come out there on the date selected. It’s your friend’s dream to do this, so what can you do to make this dream come true? In just a short amount of time, you could become an ordained minister online. In New Jersey, anyone can perform marriages and civil unions if they become an ordained minister of any religion.
Search in your browser to locate websites that offer applications for becoming an ordained minister.
Research your options to determine which one is best for your needs and is recognized by New Jersey.
Complete the online application with the required personal information, using your legal name.
Print your certificate, keeping it on file to provide as proof you have met the requirement to officiate over a wedding in the state of New Jersey.
Check local requirements in the county where you are performing the ceremony to see if there are any additional requirements on documentation or specific processes you need to follow.
Tip
Use your legal name as it appears on your birth certificate, or if you’ve had a name change, as it appears on the court documents.
Follow the proper steps for filing the marriage certificate according to your respective religious institution’s requirements, as well as any requirements by vital records in the county where you are performing the ceremony.
Warning
Be sure to keep your certificate of ordination, and where necessary, a Letter of Good Standing obtained from the organization issuing your ordination certificate. Neglecting to have the proper credentials to solemnize a marriage is a misdemeanor under New Jersey law.
Don't submit your application using a nickname or submit an application for another person without their permission. This is considered fraud.