Ordination

Registering to Perform Marriages

Prior to performing a marriage in Minnesota officiants must register with a County within the State. These filings are accepted through our office.

To perform a wedding ceremony in Minnesota, you must register with a Minnesota County prior to the ceremony. No credentials are required to register with the County. (M.S, 517.04)

Ministers of any religious denomination, before they are authorized to solemnize a marriage, shall file a copy of their credential of license or ordination or, if their religious denomination does not issue credentials, authority from the minister's spiritual assembly, with the local registrar of a county in this state. (M.S. 517.05)

In-Person

• You can file in person at the Vital Records office located at:
  Winona County Office Building
  202 W 3rd Street
  Winona, MN 55987
• Complete a Certificate of Filing Form (PDF)
• Provide a copy of your credential of license or ordination if applicable, M.S. 517.05
• Pay the $20 fee.

By Mail

• Submit a completed Certificate of Filing Form (PDF)
• Provide a copy of your credential of license or ordination if applicable, M.S. 517.05
• Money order or check made payable to Winona County Recorder in the amount of $20
• Mail to:
  Winona County Vital Records
  202 W 3rd Street
  Winona, MN 55987