Questions & Answers
Have Questions? We're here to help! Below are answers to commonly asked questions.
Ordination Process
Getting Ordained
Why get Ordained with Open Ministry?
Empower yourself to serve others with authority and meaningful purpose by joining Open Ministry.
- We offer free ordinations that are granted for life.
- Our ministers possess the same rights as traditional clergy.
- You are authorized to perform weddings, funerals, baptisms, baby-naming ceremonies, and other spiritual rites.
- We offer exceptional service, resources, support, and a minister store for all your official supplies.
Please review Our Mission to learn about the history and vision of Open Ministry.
How do I become an Ordained Minister?
Join a trusted global community of over 500,000 ministers. To begin the process, please complete our Ordination Application. There are no tests or religious classes required to apply. Once you have applied, you will receive an email to confirm your ordination.
Review our Minister Guide for information on how to get ordained and become a minister.
Is there a fee to get Ordained online?
Ordination with Open Ministry is 100% free and granted for life. We offer official credentials and minister packages for purchase, which are often required for registration, but the ordination is always free. We are committed to providing an accessible path to ministry for everyone.
How long does the online Ordination process take?
You can apply and become ordained online within a day at Open Ministry. Complete our online application, once it has been processed you will receive an email confirming your ordination.
How old do I need to be to get Ordained?
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for ordination. This is a strict requirement as marriage is a legal contract, and the officiating minister must be of legal age to sign government documents. By applying to be ordained, you are certifying that you are of legal age.
Who grants my Ordination?
Although the application process can be completed online, your ordination is formally granted and issued by a Chaplain of Open Ministry.
Do I need prior religious training or seminary school to get Ordained?
We are a non-denominational ministry that emphasizes religious freedom. We do not require prior training or religious affiliation. We believe that the right to minister belongs to anyone who feels called to serve, regardless of their background or education.
Does my Ordination expire or need to be renewed?
Your ordination does not need to be renewed. However, to remain an active minister, you should login to your account at least once per year and make sure to keep your information up to date. It is also important to have current ordination credentials with your legal name for registration and display.
Minister Guide
Legitimacy & Registration
Are online Ordinations legally recognized in every state?
Yes, our ordinations are valid and recognized in all 50 states. As an Ordained Minister, it is essential to understand that marriage laws vary by state and county. Some jurisdictions have specific registration procedures you must follow before performing a wedding.
Visit our Officiant Guide for more information.
Are Ministers allowed to perform ceremonies for their friends and family?
Yes, most states and counties allow ministers to officiate weddings once they have completed the local registration or filing requirements.
Review our Officiant Guide for information on how to perform a wedding ceremony.
How do I verify if my online Ordination is valid in my area?
Most states don't require formal seminary training. Please check with your local county clerk’s office or government website to verify their marriage officiant requirements. Many states publish guidelines on who can solemnize weddings and how to complete the officiant registration process.
Do I need to register with my county before Officiating a ceremony?
In many places, you must present your Official Credentials to the County Clerk or a similar local office to register as an officiant. Always contact the clerk in the county where the wedding will take place to ask: "Do I need to register my minister credentials with your office before performing a marriage?"
What documents do I need to register?
Most county clerks will ask for the following documentation:
- Ordination Credential: Your official certificate of ordination.
- Letter of Good Standing: A notarized and live-signed document verifying your minister status.
When should I order my Letter of Good Standing?
County clerks may require the Letter of Good Standing to be recently issued. We recommend ordering your documents before you plan to register. Do not order more than a year in advance of the ceremony date.
Where can I find my "Minister License Number"?
We do not issue a government "license number." However, your Ordination ID number issued by Open Ministry is printed on all Official Credentials.
If a marriage license asks for your "number," it is usually referring to your Minister ID. If you are asked for a "State License Number," you typically leave it blank or write "Ordained Minister." Check with the agency issuing the marriage license to ensure you include the correct information.
What are the responsibilities and duties of a Minister?
Responsibilities include conducting ceremonies with respect and legal compliance, maintaining records as required, and upholding ethical standards.
Is my Ordination recognized internationally?
Our ministers are registered globally and authorized by the church to perform duties of clergy worldwide. Religious freedoms vary per country. For more information about performing duties internationally, contact the local governmental body where you plan to minister.
Officiant Duties
Performing the Ceremony
What title should I use when signing the marriage license?
As an ordained minister, you can use Minister (Min.), Reverend (Rev.), or Clergy, which are widely accepted in the United States, especially for officiating.
For marriage licenses, you can sign with the title Minister or Officiant, which are the most commonly used.
We also offer Honorary Title Certificates with additional titles to choose from as verification of your title.
What are my legal responsibilities during a wedding?
As the officiant, you are responsible for the legal validity of the marriage on the day of the ceremony. Your duties include:
- Verify the License: Ensure the couple has a valid marriage license in hand before you start.
- Declaration of Intent: You must ask the couple if they take one another as spouses (the "I do" moment).
- Pronouncement: You must legally pronounce them married.
- Sign & Return: You, the couple, and witnesses (as required) must sign the license. You are responsible for mailing it back to the county or issuing agency within their specific deadline (usually 3–10 days) from the ceremony date.
Can I perform a wedding in any state?
Yes, but you must follow the marriage laws of the state where the wedding will take place. Always check the requirements of the destination county.
Can I officiate weddings outside of the United States?
Our ordinations are global. However, legal recognition can vary by country. Always check with the local government (civil registry) in the country where you plan to perform wedding ceremonies.
Can I perform other rites like baptisms or funerals?
Yes, your ordination grants you the rites of clergy, allowing you to perform baptisms, funerals, baby namings, and other spiritual services. Ministers need to confirm local laws for specific ceremonies before conducting spiritual rites or sacerdotal duties.
Do I need to carry any official credentials as a Minister or Officiant?
Carrying your Ordination Certificate or Minister Wallet Card is recommended to verify your authority, especially when officiating a ceremony or performing a service as a Minister.
Minister Account
Information & Updates
How do I login or reset my password?
If you are ordained with us, you can access your minister account at:
https://www.open-ministry.org/account/login
If you were ordained with Open Ministry prior to January 12th, please contact us to access your account by using the email icon on the bottom right side of our website or email support@open-ministry.org for assistance.
How do I update my account?
Please contact us if you need assistance updating your name, phone number, email, address, or any information listed on your account.
Is my Ordination listed in the directory?
Please login and update your account settings if you would like to opt in or out of our Minister Directory.
How do I order by mail?
- Login to your minister account
- Select the credentials that you would like to order by adding them to your cart
- Continue through the checkout process
- Select your preferred mailing method (first class, Priority, Express)
- Once you reach the "Billing Options" section you can print the page or write your order details on a piece of paper
- Include your name exactly as you would like it to be printed on your documents
- Add your billing and shipping addresses
- Send a check or money order made out to Open Ministry for the total amount due including shipping
- Once your mail-in order payment has been processed you will be notified
- Please allow 5-7 business days for processing of mail-in orders
Mail order details and payment to:
Open Ministry
PO Box 122990
San Diego, CA 92112
How do I order by phone?
For assistance requesting ministerial supplies, contact us at (413) 248-7247. If you don’t reach us, leave a detailed message including your name, ordination date, phone number, and email so we can better serve you.
How do I cancel my account?
Please contact us to denounce your ordination and have your minister record removed from our registry.
Practicing Ministry
Support & Community
How do I prove I am Ordained?
We recommend carrying your Minister Wallet Card when performing ceremonies. This adds professionalism and verifies your authority.
How do I maintain credibility and integrity as an Ordained Minister?
By conducting ceremonies professionally, respecting legal requirements, continuing personal spiritual growth, and engaging with community or mentorship.
How do I stay connected with Open Ministry?
We provide resources and support to our ministers. We are also excited to announce that more services are in development to better help our community stay informed and connected.
Can I start my own church or ministry?
Many of our independent ministers go on to start their own congregations or ministries. However, establishing a recognized church entity for tax or non-profit status requires additional legal filing with your state. For information about tax related questions, please contact a qualified tax specialist. You can also find more information for Charities & Other Non-Profits at: https://www.irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits
Still have questions and need support?
Please review our Minister Guide on how to become an ordained minister or our Officiant Guide on how to perform a wedding ceremony.
Need Support? Contact Us for more information. Our dedicated support team is available to answer any questions you may have.