How to officiate a wedding in Washington

Obtain your permanent Agape Registry Credential ID and printable digital Certificate of Ordination ($0, zero renewal fees).

Under RCW 26.04.050, any regularly licensed or ordained minister or any priest, imam, rabbi, or similar official of any religious organization (whether resident or non-resident, as well as Washington judges and tribal court judges) is authorized to solemnize marriages across all 39 Washington counties without pre-registering with the state or County Auditor. CRITICAL 3-DAY WAITING PERIOD: Under RCW 26.04.180, a Washington marriage license cannot be used until 3 full calendar days after application/issuance (and expires 60 days after becoming valid; the 3-day wait cannot be waived). Return the completed Department of Health Marriage Certificate to the issuing County Auditor within 30 days after the ceremony (RCW 26.04.090), and verify current county license fees with the Auditor.

Send the 10-question Couple Interview Link, confirm personal vows vs. repeat-after-me vows, and print your script in large altar type.

Ensure the couple obtains their Washington Marriage License & Department of Health Marriage Certificate early enough to clear Washington’s waiting period (3 calendar days) without expiring before ceremony day.

Witness Rule: Under RCW 26.04.070, at least 2 attending witnesses must be physically present at the ceremony and sign the Washington marriage certificate alongside both spouses and the officiant.. Deliver in person or via tracked mail before Fri, Jan 29, 2027.