Filing Credentials of License or Ordination

For an ordained person (both Minnesota residents and non-residents) to be authorized to perform marriage ceremonies in Minnesota, the person must be at least 21 years old and must file their "credentials of license or ordination" with a Minnesota county (MN Statute 517.05).   Once this is done marriages may be performed anywhere in the State of Minnesota.  

In Person by Appointment Only

Bring the following items       

• Complete a Certificate of Filing form
• Provide a copy of your credential of license or ordination
• Proof of Identification
• Pay the $20.00 filing fee (check or pay online)

By Mail

• Submit a completed and notarized Certificate of Filing form
• A copy of your credential license or ordination.  If your credential has information on both sides, such as a wallet card, please provide a copy of each side.
• Filing Fee $20.00 (check or pay online)
• Include Postage/Handling Charge:  $1.00 OR Priority Mail $8.15
• Priority Processing:  $10.00 (optional)
• Mail to:  Wright County Recorder
                 Attn:  Credentials
                 3650 Braddock Avenue NE, Suite 1500V
                 Buffalo, MN  55313

Information for Marriage Officiant

A marriage license that was issued by Wright County is given to the applicants at the time they complete the application process.  They will receive two pieces of paper that include the marriage license and the marriage certificate.  They will also receive and envelope that can be used to send the completed certificate back to our office.  The marriage license shall be kept by the officiant as proof of your authority to solemnize the marriage.  The marriage certificate needs to be completed by the officiant.  Failure to complete the marriage certificate properly will result in a delay of the issuance of the certified marriage.  
 
 If you have any questions about performing a marriage within the borders of Minnesota please contact our office at Phone: 763.682.7357 (press 6)