Solemnize / Clergy Certificate

Clergy Certificate of Authorization

If an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage, the clergy person must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth prior to the ceremony. This certificate, which is issued by the Public Records Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, is to be attached to the original license and returned to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued. For further information, contact:

Division of Public Records
Secretary of the Commonwealth
1 Ashburton Place
Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108
Ph: 617-727-2836

Solemnizer / Justice of the Peace

If a person other than a member of the clergy is designated as "Solemnizer" or Justice of the Peace for the Ceremony, further information can be obtained from:

Secretary of the Commonwealth
1 Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 02108
Ph: 617-727-5787