How to Become a Wedding Officiant in Michigan

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You must be at least 18 and ordained by a recognized religious organization—including online churches like American Marriage Ministries (AMM) or Universal Life Church. These ordinations are valid in Michigan.

• Michigan does not require officiants to register with the state or county clerk. Once ordained, you’re legally allowed to solemnize weddings statewide (American Marriage Ministries).

• Carry a copy of your ordination certificate and, preferably, a Letter of Good Standing. Some county clerks or venues might ask to see proof, even though official registration isn’t required (American Marriage Ministries).

Michigan law requires:

• Couples apply for a marriage license at a county clerk’s office.
• They must wait 3 days for issuance.
• The license is valid for 33 days (American Marriage Ministries).

1. Ask the couple to present their license.
2. Verify it’s valid (within the 33-day window).
3. Ensure at least two adult witnesses are present alongside the officiant (American Marriage Ministries, American Marriage Ministries).
4. Officiate the ceremony (no specific script required, but you must include a declaration of consent) (American Marriage Ministries).
5. Sign the license as “Minister” and have witnesses sign too (American Marriage Ministries).

• Within 10 days after the ceremony, the completed license must be returned to the issuing county clerk’s office. Failure to do so could invalidate the marriage (LegalClarity).

Congratulations and welcome to the Wedding Officiant Community of Michigan!