Can a Notary Public perform Weddings

No, in Arizona, a Notary Public is not authorized to perform marriage ceremonies by virtue of their notary commission alone.

Per A.R.S. § 25-124, the following individuals are authorized to perform weddings in the state:

• Religious Officials: Duly licensed or ordained clergymen (ministers, priests, rabbis, etc.).

• Judges: This includes judges of courts of record, municipal court judges, and justices of the peace.

• Federal/Other Judges: U.S. Supreme Court justices, bankruptcy court judges, and U.S. magistrate judges.

  
  

How an Arizona Notary Can Officiate

If an Arizona Notary Public wants to offer wedding services, they must obtain authorization through a different channel. Most notaries in the state do this by becoming an ordained minister.

1. Get Ordained: Many notaries use online organizations (such as the Universal Life Church or Open Ministry) to become ordained. Arizona recognizes these ordinations for the purpose of officiating weddings.

2. Verify with the County: While state registration for ministers is not required, it is a good idea to check with the Maricopa County Clerk of Superior Court (or your local county clerk) to see if they have specific local requirements for officiants.

3. Perform the Ceremony: Once ordained, you can sign the marriage license using the title "Minister" rather than "Notary Public."

   
   

Important Restrictions

• Witnesses: Arizona requires at least two witnesses (aged 18 or older) to participate in the ceremony and sign the license along with the officiants and the couple.