What if I want a friend or family member to officiate my marriage but they are not a member of the clergy or a justice of the peace?
A person who is not a recognized member of the clergy in Massachusetts or a Justice of the Peace (such as a relative or family friend) may obtain one-day special permission from the Governor to perform a marriage. Call the Governor's office at (617) 727-5787 to obtain an application for a one-time special appointment to solemnize a marriage. A $25.00 fee is paid to the Commissions Division of the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and a one day solemnizer certificate is sent to the approved solemnizer.

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1. How do we apply for a marriage license?
2. What do I need to bring with me in order to apply for a marriage license?
3. What if I do not have a Social Security Number?
4. What happens if I do not get married within the 60 day time period?
5. If my fiancé is active duty military do we both still need to apply in person?
6. If my fiancé is incarcerated do both parties need to apply in person?
7. Is there a waiting period from the date of application to the date the license is issued?
8. May we marry before the three days for good reason?
9. How do we obtain a waiver?
10. What is the cost of a marriage license?
11. At what age may a man or a woman marry?
12. What if one or both of us has been divorced?
13. Is there any special requirement for a widow or widower who is remarrying?
14. Do we need any witnesses present at the ceremony?
15. What are the responsibilities of the member of the clergy or justice of the peace?
16. Where can I obtain a list of Justices of the Peace?
17. What if I want a friend or family member to officiate my marriage but they are not a member of the clergy or a justice of the peace?
18. What should be done if an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage?