How to Perform a Marriage in San Francisco

Researched and edited for you by trained team members at GetOrdained.org

If you've been asked to officiate a wedding, you know it's an exciting opportunity. However, it can also be a bit intimidating. That's why we've put together this guide on officiating weddings in San Francisco! We'll go over everything you need to know, from how to get ordained, to how to contact your local wedding registrar, and what, exactly, you'll need from us.

1. How to Become a Minister in San Francisco

If you haven't already, you'll want to get ordained as a ULC minister by clicking the button below. Get Ordained™ offers ordination through Universal Life Church within moments and completely free of charge. All you have to do is sign up, fill out a short form, and you'll be a legally ordained minister, able to officiate weddings and more. Sign up today!

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Important Info for Ministers in San Francisco

ULC Ordination Accepted:: Yes
Minister Registration Required:: No
Documents Required:: N/A
Minister's Residency:: Irrelevant
Minister's Minimum Age:: 18

2. Learn San Francisco Marriage Requirements

Once you're ordained, the next thing you'll want to do is contact the office in San Francisco that handles marriage licenses. You'll want to tell them that you're an ordained minister officiating a wedding, and ask what documentation they want to see from you in order to officiate a wedding. You can find the San Francisco office's contact information below.

Office Address:: City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 168
San Francisco, CA 94102
Office Phone Number:: (415) 701-2311
Office Website:: San Francisco Office Website

3. Who Can Officiate a Wedding in San Francisco?

If you're ordained as a minister of the Universal Life Church, you can! Many couples are choosing to both cut costs and personalize their event by enlisting a close family friend or loved one to officiate their ceremony.

The couple could ask anyone, but they've asked you to forever be a part of their love story! Consider it a great honor. It's important to note that not everyone knows that this is even an option. If you know someone who has an upcoming wedding, you might consider asking who is performing their ceremony, and let them know that you're available if needed. Who knows, you might just get a reputation as a go-to officiant!

Average Cost of a Wedding in San Francisco:: $33,697

4. What You'll Need to Officiate in San Francisco

The office in San Francisco will be able to tell you what you'll need to pick up from our online store in order to perform a wedding. One of the most popular options for ministers in San Francisco is the Classic Wedding Kit!

Now you can get to the fun part: officiating the wedding itself. Whether it's your first time performing a wedding, or you just need to refresh your memory, we suggest taking a look at our wedding training center, which is full of all the resources you'll need to give the couple the wedding they deserve.

5. How San Francisco Marriage Licenses Work

With the ceremony complete, the last - and most important - responsibility remains: Signing and returning the marriage license. A marriage license in San Francisco is valid for 90 days, so don't delay. Keep in mind that once the marriage license has been obtained, there is no mandatory waiting period before the wedding ceremony can happen. Also note that the marriage license must be returned to the office that issued it within the time limit given after it has been signed.

Remember, this is a legal document! Take your time to ensure that it's been filled out properly before it is returned to the issuing office. If you need in-depth instructions on how to fill it out, take a look at our marriage license training page for assistance.

Marriage License Waiting Period:: 0 Days
Marriage License Valid For:: 90 Days
Return Within:: Return within 10 days of ceremony

6. Performing a Wedding in San Francisco

Well know around the world for its rich culture and walkability, San Francisco neighborhoods are a mix of arts, restaurants and nightlife sure to please any wedding couple or guest. Venues tucked in to suburbs rich with local flavor and culture are sure to enhance the charm of any wedding that takes place in this historic city.

7. What You Should Do Now for a Wedding in San Francisco

Take advantage of the costal sunshine and temperate climate with a venue choice in San Francisco.

You know the ins and outs of officiating weddings in San Francisco now, but don't forget to sign up as a ULC minister for free by clicking the button below!