Can a Notary Officiate a Wedding?
Updated 2026-09-19
In a small number of states, notaries public are authorized to solemnize marriages. In most states they are not, and a ceremony must be performed by an authorized officiant such as a judge, clerk or religious official. Your county clerk's marriage licence office can confirm who may officiate where you are marrying.
Check with the county clerk
The authority that issues your marriage licence also decides who may sign it as officiant. Ask them before booking anyone. Getting this wrong can mean the marriage is not properly recorded, which is difficult to unwind afterwards.
Notarizing versus officiating
These are separate roles. A notary may be able to notarize a related document — an affidavit, a name-change form, a prenuptial agreement where notarization is required — without having any authority to perform the ceremony itself.
If notaries cannot officiate in your state
- A judge or court clerk, where they perform ceremonies
- A religious official
- Someone who obtains officiant authority the way your state permits
- A civil ceremony at the courthouse
Booking a notary officiant where it is allowed
Ask about availability on your date, travel to the venue, whether they will lead a short ceremony script, and their fee. Confirm they will sign and return the licence within the deadline your county sets.
Frequently asked questions
- Which states allow it?
- Only a few, and the list can change. Confirm with the county clerk issuing your licence rather than relying on a general article.
- Can a notary notarize our marriage licence?
- The licence is signed and returned by the officiant, not notarized. Follow the clerk's instructions.
- Can a wedding be officiated online?
- Remote ceremonies are permitted only in limited circumstances. Ask the county clerk.
Search the notary directory
Enter your ZIP code or city to see notaries who serve your area.
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Read guideNotarization requirements vary by state and document type. A notary public generally cannot give legal advice, choose a document for you, draft a document unless separately authorized, tell you how to complete a form, or explain the legal effect of signing. If you are unsure whether your document needs notarization or which notarial act is required, ask the agency or person receiving the document, or consult a qualified legal professional.