Your Comprehensive Guide to Getting Married in Missouri

Missouri, often referred to as the "Show-Me State," boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the rolling hills of the Ozarks, Missouri offers a stunning backdrop for couples looking to tie the knot. But before you say "I do," it's essential to understand Missouri's marriage laws and requirements. Fortunately, our team at Universal Life Church Ministries has compiled all the information you need to plan your dream wedding in Missouri hassle-free.

Who can officiate a wedding in Missouri

In Missouri, the legal requirements for who can officiate a wedding are relatively flexible. According to MO Rev Stat § 451.020, the following individuals are authorized to solemnize marriages:

• Judges: Judges of courts of record, including municipal judges, justices of the peace, and notaries public authorized to perform marriages.
• Public officials: Public officials whose powers include the solemnization of marriages, such as mayors and city judges.
• Religious leaders: Members of religious denominations or Native American nations or tribes recognized by the state, including ministers ordained online by Universal Life Church Ministries (or American Marriage Ministries).

How to become an officiant in Missouri

Becoming an officiant in Missouri is a straightforward process. Here's what you need to know:

• Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to officiate a wedding in Missouri.
• Residency: There is no residency requirement, meaning you can officiate weddings in Missouri regardless of where you live.
• Documentation required: While Missouri does not issue specific credentials for officiants, you may need to provide documentation of your ordination to the Recorder of Deeds office in the county where the wedding will take place. This requirement varies by county, so it's essential to check with the local office for specific instructions.

How to Officiate a Wedding in Missouri

Officiating a wedding in Missouri is both an honor and a responsibility. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you officiate a wedding in the Show-Me State:

1. Prepare for the ceremony: Work with the couple to create a personalized ceremony that reflects their beliefs, values, and traditions.
2. Ensure legal compliance: Before the wedding, verify that the couple has obtained a valid marriage license from the county Recorder of Deeds office.
3. Perform the ceremony: On the wedding day, arrive early at the venue and coordinate with the couple and any other participants.
4. Complete and sign the marriage license: After the ceremony, ensure that both witnesses and the couple have signed the marriage license. Then, complete your section of the license, including your title as "minister" and the ordaining body as "Universal Life Church Ministries" (or American Marriage Ministries).
5. Submit the marriage license: Return the completed marriage license to the Recorder of Deeds office within 15 days of the ceremony to ensure that the marriage is legally recognized.

How to Fill Out a Marriage License in Missouri

Filling out a marriage license correctly is crucial to ensure that the marriage is legally recognized. Here's what you need to know about completing a marriage license in Missouri:

1. Officiant's details: As the officiant, you'll need to provide your title as "minister" and the ordaining body as "Universal Life Church Ministries" (or American Marriage Ministries).
2. Couple's details: Ensure that the couple's names, ages, and addresses are accurately recorded on the license.
3. Witness signatures: Have at least two witnesses sign the marriage license, certifying that they were present at the ceremony.
4. Submit the license: Return the completed marriage license to the Recorder of Deeds office within 15 days of the wedding ceremony to ensure that the marriage is legally recognized.

Conclusion: It’s important to know how to get legally ordained online and officiate a wedding. Ready to start planning your wedding ceremony in Missouri? Sign up for Provenance.co to create a personalized ceremony script and make your special day truly unforgettable.

FAQs

Q: Can I officiate a wedding in Missouri if I'm not a resident of the state?

A: Yes, Missouri does not have a residency requirement for officiants. As long as you are authorized to solemnize marriages in the state, you can officiate a wedding regardless of where you live.

Q: Do I need to register as an officiant in Missouri?

A: While Missouri does not require officiants to register with the state, you may need to provide documentation of your ordination to the Recorder of Deeds office in the county where the wedding will take place.

Q: How long does it take to get a marriage license in Missouri?

A: Marriage licenses are typically issued immediately upon application, so you can obtain one on the same day you apply.

Q: Is there a waiting period to get married in Missouri?

A: No, Missouri does not have a waiting period for marriages, so you can get married as soon as you have your marriage license.

With this comprehensive guide, you're well-equipped to navigate the legal requirements for getting married and officiating weddings in Missouri. Whether you're planning your own wedding or helping others tie the knot, remember to follow the necessary steps to ensure that the marriage is legally recognized.

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Please Note: State and county marriage certificate requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Everyone’s situation is different, and we would always advise that you contact the office of your local marriage authority or a licensed attorney to address any specific questions or concerns you may have. While Provenance will aim to update this information as relevant and as able, you should reach out to the local county clerk for the most up to date information.