Get Ordained Online in Washington, D.C. Now

Becoming ordained in Washington, D.C. allows you to officiate a wedding for a friend, family member, or client. Washington, D.C. has a unique and flexible process compared to many states, making it one of the easiest places in the U.S. to officiate a wedding. Whether you’ve been asked to perform a ceremony or want to begin officiating weddings, this guide will walk you through how to get ordained in D.C., who can legally officiate a wedding, licensing requirements, and the step-by-step process.

Is Online Ordination Legal in Washington, D.C.?

Washington, D.C. allows ordained ministers and religious officiants to perform weddings, including those ordained through online ministries. However, D.C. requires officiants to register with the court before performing a wedding. This means you can get ordained online through UN Ministry, but you must also apply for authorization in D.C.

Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Washington, D.C.?

In Washington, D.C., the following individuals can officiate weddings:

• Ordained ministers who are registered with the court
• Judges and certain public officials
• Temporary officiants (one-time authorization)

One of the most popular options in D.C. is applying for a one-time officiant license, which allows a friend or family member to perform a wedding legally—even without traditional ordination.

🏆 Unique Advantage: One-Time Officiant License

Washington, D.C. is one of the few places where you can:

👉 Apply online for a one-day officiant authorization
👉 Officiate a wedding legally without being full-time clergy

This makes D.C. extremely popular for friend-officiated weddings.

How to Get Ordained in Washington, D.C.

Getting ordained is quick and can be completed entirely online, followed by court registration.

Step 1: Complete Your Ordination

Fill out a short online form with your full legal name, email address, and state. Takes less than 2 minutes.

Step 2: Receive Your Ordination

You’ll receive confirmation and an electronic certificate (PDF).

Step 3: Register with D.C. Court

You must apply with the D.C. Marriage Bureau (Superior Court) to be authorized to officiate.

Step 4: Obtain Supporting Documents (Recommended)

Because registration is required, most officiants obtain:

• Printed certificate
• Letter of good standing
• Minister ID

Washington, D.C. Marriage Requirements

Marriage License

Couples must obtain a marriage license from the D.C. Marriage Bureau. There is no waiting period.

Officiant Registration

Officiants must be approved by the court before performing a ceremony.

Witness Requirements

D.C. does not require witnesses.

Self-Officiating

D.C. allows self-uniting marriages, meaning couples can legally marry themselves without an officiant.

Filing the License

After the ceremony, the officiant must return the signed license to the court.

How to Officiate a Wedding in Washington, D.C.

Before the Ceremony

Confirm:

• your court approval
• the couple has a valid license

During the Ceremony

Conduct the ceremony and pronounce the couple married. No specific wording required.

After the Ceremony

Sign and return the marriage license to the D.C. Marriage Bureau.

Why People Get Ordained in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is one of the easiest places in the U.S. to officiate a wedding. With options like one-time officiant licenses and self-uniting marriages, it offers unmatched flexibility for couples and officiants alike.

Get Ordained with UN Ministry

UN Ministry makes it simple to get ordained and start officiating weddings in Washington, D.C. You’ll receive instant online ordination, an electronic certificate, and optional official documents to support your court application.

Get Ordained in Washington, D.C. Today

Start your ordination in minutes and begin the process to officiate a wedding in D.C.

FAQ

Do I need to register as an officiant in Washington, D.C.?

Yes, you must register with the D.C. court before officiating.

Can a friend officiate a wedding in D.C.?

Yes, through either ordination or a one-time officiant license.

How long does it take to get ordained?

Minutes online, but court approval may take additional time.

Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in D.C.?

No, there is no waiting period.

Do I need witnesses?

No, Washington, D.C. does not require witnesses.