If an out-of-state member of the clergy or a person not recognized by the State, is to perform the marriage, that person must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth prior to the ceremony. This certificate, which is issued by the Public Records Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, is to be attached to the original license and returned to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued. For further information, please visit the
Secretary of State's website.