Current 2026 Code Overview, Secretary of State Registration, and Officiant Obligations
Religious representatives must register online with the West Virginia Secretary of State (via ERLS) and pay a registration fee before solemnizing marriages. Registration requires proof of age, ordination credentials, and a letter of good standing. Once registered, authorization is statewide. Family court judges, circuit judges, and Supreme Court justices are also legally authorized.
The legal age of consent is 18 years old. Individuals aged 16 or 17 may marry with valid notarized written consent from parents or legal guardians. Marriages for individuals under 16 years of age require strict judicial approval.
Marriage licenses are valid for sixty (60) days from issuance. The person who performs the ceremony must endorse the license and return the original document to the issuing county clerk before the sixth day of the month following the month in which the marriage was celebrated.
 Member's Handbook |
 Textbook for Members |
 The Wedding Professional |
 Pre-marital Counseling |
 Funeral Book Training & Customs |
Funeral Training & Rites |
 The Fall and Rise of Christ |
|
Member's Handbook |
Textbook for Members |
The Wedding Professional |
Pre-marital Counseling |
Funeral Book Training & Customs |
Funeral Training & Rites |
The Fall and Rise of Christ |