Usually the state laws provide any recognized member of the clergy (such as a Priest, Minister, Rabbi, Imam, Cantor, Ethical Culture Leader, etc.) or a judge, a court clerk, and justices of the peace have authority to perform a marriage. However in some states even the clergy must be first certified or licensed.
Some states have laws that permit other persons to apply for authority to perform marriage ceremonies. For example, California law permits anyone to apply for permission to become a Deputy Commissioner of Marriages -- the grant of authority is valid for one day -- and thus officiate at the wedding of family or friends on that one day.
In the United States, certain states and some counties have guidelines for ministers who want to perform marriages. You can find specifics for each state at State Marriage License Information.
For local areas, you can find general information below:
In the state of Virginia all those interested in performing marriages in the state must register in heir circuit court.
The requirements may vary by county, please see the following links:
Call the clerk's office for specific instructions.
Ordained
ministers of the gospel may perform marriages. --- Marriage licenses are addressed to the minister who will perform the ceremony. The minister must complete a marriage certificate for the bride and for the groom and return another certificate to the clerk of the District of Columbia Court of General Sessions within 10 days after the marriage.
--- For questions see the clerk of the Court of General Sessions.
In
Maryland, any adult can sign as clergy, as long as the couple who are getting married agree that he is a clergy. The celebrant doesn't have to be a resident, register in advance, or fulfill any other requirements.