Get Ordained Online in Minnesota Now
Becoming ordained in Minnesota allows you to officiate a wedding for a friend, family member, or client. Minnesota has relatively straightforward requirements, making it a great state for first-time officiants. Whether you’ve been asked to perform a ceremony or want to start officiating weddings, this guide will walk you through how to get ordained in Minnesota, who can legally officiate a wedding, Minnesota licensing requirements, and the step-by-step process to officiate.
Is Online Ordination Legal in Minnesota?
Yes—Minnesota 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 legally officiate a wedding in most cases. However, Minnesota does require officiants to file credentials with the county before performing a wedding.
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, the following individuals can officiate weddings: ordained ministers and religious leaders, judges and certain court officials, and authorized public officials. A common modern option is a friend or family member who becomes ordained online and files their credentials with the county.
How to Get Ordained in Minnesota
Getting ordained is quick and can be completed entirely online, followed by a required filing 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: File Credentials with the County
Minnesota requires officiants to file proof of ordination with the county registrar before performing a wedding. This may include submitting documentation from your ministry.
Step 4: Obtain Supporting Documents (Recommended)
Because filing is required, many officiants choose to obtain a printed certificate, letter of good standing, and minister ID card.
Minnesota Licensing Requirements
Minnesota has specific requirements that must be followed.
Marriage License
The couple must obtain a marriage license from a county registrar in Minnesota. There is typically a 5-day waiting period unless waived.
Officiant Registration
Officiants must file their credentials with the county 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
Minnesota 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 license to the county registrar.
How to Officiate a Wedding in Minnesota
Once ordained and properly filed with the county, officiating a wedding is straightforward.
Before the Ceremony
Confirm the couple has a valid marriage license, verify the waiting period has passed, file your credentials with the county, prepare your ceremony script, and confirm witness availability.
During the Ceremony
You must conduct the ceremony and pronounce the couple married. Minnesota 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 appropriate county office.
Why People Get Ordained in Minnesota
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 filing, 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 county filing. Get ordained today and prepare to officiate your first ceremony.
Get Ordained in Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota requires officiants to file their credentials with the county.
Can a friend officiate a wedding in Minnesota?
Yes, but they must be ordained and file their credentials before performing the ceremony.
How long does it take to get ordained?
It can be completed online in just a few minutes, but filing may take additional time.
Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in Minnesota?
Yes, there is typically a 5-day waiting period unless waived.
Do I need documents to officiate?
Yes, documentation is typically required for filing with the county.