Get Ordained Online in Louisiana Now
Becoming ordained in Louisiana allows you to officiate a wedding for a friend, family member, or client, but Louisiana has specific requirements you should understand before performing a ceremony. Whether you’ve been asked to officiate a wedding or want to begin performing ceremonies, this guide will walk you through how to get ordained in Louisiana, who can legally officiate a wedding, Louisiana licensing requirements, and the step-by-step process to officiate.
Is Online Ordination Legal in Louisiana?
Louisiana law allows ordained ministers and religious officiants to perform weddings, including those ordained through online ministries. This means you can get ordained online through UN Ministry and officiate a wedding in many cases. However, Louisiana requires officiants to register with the parish clerk of court before performing a wedding.
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the following individuals can officiate weddings: ordained ministers and religious leaders who have registered with the parish, judges and justices of the peace, and certain authorized public officials. A common modern option is a friend or family member who becomes ordained online and completes the parish registration process.
How to Get Ordained in Louisiana
Getting ordained is quick and can be completed entirely online, followed by a required registration step.
Step 1: Complete Your Ordination
Fill out a short online form with your full legal name, email address, and state. This takes less than 2 minutes.
Step 2: Receive Your Ordination
Once completed, you’ll receive confirmation of ordination and an electronic certificate (PDF).
Step 3: Register with the Parish Clerk
Louisiana requires officiants to register with the clerk of court in the parish where the wedding will take place. This may involve submitting proof of ordination and completing a registration form.
Step 4: Obtain Supporting Documents (Recommended)
Because registration is required, many officiants choose to obtain a printed certificate, letter of good standing, and minister ID card.
Louisiana Licensing Requirements
Louisiana has specific requirements that must be followed.
Marriage License
The couple must obtain a marriage license from a parish clerk of court in Louisiana. There is typically a 24-hour waiting period before the ceremony can take place.
Officiant Registration
Officiants must be registered with the parish before performing the ceremony.
Officiant Responsibilities
As the officiant, you must perform the ceremony, ensure both parties consent, and complete the marriage license.
Witness Requirements
Louisiana requires at least two witnesses to be present at the ceremony.
Filing the License
After the ceremony, the officiant must complete and return the signed marriage license to the parish clerk of court.
How to Officiate a Wedding in Louisiana
Once ordained and registered with the parish, officiating a wedding is straightforward.
Before the Ceremony
Confirm the couple has a valid marriage license, verify your registration with the parish, ensure the waiting period has passed, prepare your ceremony script, and confirm witness availability.
During the Ceremony
You must conduct the ceremony and pronounce the couple married. Louisiana does not require specific wording, but both parties must clearly declare their intent to marry.
After the Ceremony
Sign the marriage license along with the required witnesses and return it to the parish clerk of court.
Why People Get Ordained in Louisiana
Many people choose ordination to officiate a friend’s wedding, perform a family ceremony, create a more personal experience, or begin offering officiant services. With proper registration, it’s a straightforward and rewarding process.
Get Ordained with UN Ministry
UN Ministry makes it simple to get ordained and begin the process of officiating weddings. You’ll receive instant online ordination, an electronic certificate, and optional official documents to support your parish registration. Get ordained today and prepare to officiate your first ceremony.
Get Ordained in Louisiana Today
Start your ordination in minutes and take the first step toward officiating a wedding.
FAQ
Do I need to register as an officiant in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana requires officiants to register with the parish clerk of court.
Can a friend officiate a wedding in Louisiana?
Yes, but they must be ordained and registered with the parish before performing the ceremony.
How long does it take to get ordained?
It can be completed online in just a few minutes, but registration may take additional time.
Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in Louisiana?
Yes, there is typically a 24-hour waiting period.
Do I need documents to officiate?
Yes, documentation is typically required for parish registration.