How to Become an Ordained Minister

Are you interested in getting ordained online? Becoming an ordained minister is a huge step in any person’s life – whether you're preparing to officiate a wedding, plan to lead other meaningful ceremonies, or simply want to embark on your own unique spiritual journey.

The Universal Life Church provides a free and simple online ordination process for anyone who feels so-called, without restriction based on background, belief, or affiliation.

This page will walk through the steps for becoming a minister online, what it means to be ordained, and how long a minister license is good for.

How to Get Ordained Online

ULC ordinations never expire and are recognized across the United States. Once ordained, you have the legal authority to be a wedding officiant, conduct other religious ceremonies, or even start your own church!

Many folks decide to get ordained specifically with weddings in mind. In some states, you are required to register as a minister in order to perform a wedding ceremony, which typically involves showing proof of ordination with an official copy of your license. These legally valid documents, along with any other items you might need to register, are available in our minister supplies catalog.

What Does It Mean to Be a Minister?

Becoming a minister unlocks the ability to play a key role in some of life’s greatest moments – from solemnizing weddings, to presiding over funerals, baptisms, and many other important ceremonies.

This is no small undertaking, and we trust our members to approach their new status with the sincerity it deserves.

We ask only that all members abide by the two core tenets of the Universal Life Church:

1. Do that which is right.

2. Practice your religion however you see fit, so long as you abide by the law and respect the rights of others.

While ordination is immediate, being an effective minister takes preparation. The ULC offers a variety of training materials to help you understand the legal and ceremonial responsibilities of your new role.

Why Is Online Ordination So Easy?

The ULC ordination process is so simple, it might sound too good to be true – but we’ve intentionally designed it that way!

As an independent religious organization, the Universal Life Church is empowered to conduct ordination in accordance with its doctrine. We believe that anyone who feels called to ministry should be able to answer that call without the barrier of expensive fees or formal schooling.That's why we make ordination as easy as filling out the online application. The Universal Life Church is, by far, the largest and most widely recognized organization providing online ordinations today. You can learn more by visiting this page about the ULC’s ordination philosophy.

Once your application is processed, you are conferred the legal title of “Minister” and are officially ordained!

Does Universal Life Church Ordination Expire?

No, your ULC ordination is good for life. Once you’re ordained by the ULC, your status is permanent and does not expire. That means you never need to renew your ordination or pay any type of fees to maintain your status.

Please note that if you plan to perform weddings, some local governments may require additional registration steps that could include renewal requirements. We encourage you to always verify these requirements with your local marriage authorities.

Is Getting Ordained Legal In My State?

Yes! Over the decades, the Universal Life Church has ordained millions of people across the U.S., and we have active members in every state. While the process is fairly standard, there are some small differences depending on where you’re located.

To learn more about the ordination process in your state specifically, please find your location below.