Do you feel called to serve in ministry but lack formal recognition? The Licensed Minister program from Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) and Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) offers a powerful first step.
Whether you’re already volunteering at your church or just beginning to explore your calling, this program equips you with essential ministry training and a respected license—at no cost.
Becoming a Licensed Minister affirms your calling to serve in part-time or volunteer ministry roles. This credential gives you the confidence and credibility to take on spiritual responsibilities such as officiating weddings, leading prayer services, and offering pastoral care.
It’s especially valuable for:
The Licensed Minister program is a 13-credit course that gives you practical ministry training through CLI’s online platform. Here’s a breakdown of the main requirements:
Core Courses (11 Required)To become a Licensed Minister, you will need two personal recommendations from individuals who can speak to your character and calling. Once you complete the program and submit your references, you’ll be officially recognized as a Licensed Minister by Christian Leaders Alliance.
Your name will be listed in the CLA online directory, where government officials and others can verify your licensed status.
Once Licensed, you’ll be qualified to serve in a wide variety of roles:
Here’s why thousands have chosen to become a Licensed Minister through CLI and CLA:
Free Training & Credentials – Supported by generous donors, no tuition required.
Real Ministry Preparation – Learn practical skills that apply directly to your calling.
Global Recognition – Your license is posted on the CLA directory for official verification.
Flexible Learning – Study at your own pace, on your own schedule.
Pathway to Ordination – Opens doors to more advanced credentials like the Ordained Minister role.
For one aspiring Christian leader, the decision to become a Licensed Minister through Christian Leaders Institute has been nothing short of transformational.
“I’ve dreamt my entire life of becoming a motivational speaker of some sort,” the student shares, “but I simply never understood WHY that was exactly! As I later determined, God will use me through ministry to lead the way within my community and spread the Gospel and additionally provide a foundation for those who are lost.”
Becoming a Licensed Minister didn’t just fulfill a personal dream—it opened a door to trusted leadership. “I will have the credentials and influence to assure my future community group that they can trust in me with the teachings of Lord Jesus, as well as many passages from scripture,” they explain. “It’s important to trust your influencer, and this is my portal that will help me in that area.”
Through Christian Leaders Institute (CLI), this student gained the biblical training and ministry credibility needed to step into a new role as a part-time influencer and community group leader. “Becoming a Licensed Minister has really given me the power and influence, as well as the understanding on how to appropriately spread the word of our good Lord Jesus Christ.”
With a heart for the hurting and a passion for encouragement, this Licensed Minister plans to continue equipping themselves through additional training. “I will soon enough be taking a Life Coach Minister course to help out those in times of chaos, who could really use that good boost of confidence in their life—and what better way than that of our Lord and Savior?”
Looking ahead, they hope to pursue full ordination through Christian Leaders Alliance. But for now, they’re faithfully answering God’s call in their current season.
“CLI has given me more faith and encouragement in humanity than I ever could have imagined,” they testify. “I love knowing that we have an incredible organization and community that backs us students, and encourages us to go as far with the Gospel as we possibly can! Thank you, Christian Leaders Institute!”
If you’re ready to take your next step in ministry, now is the time to become a Licensed Minister. The program is designed for real people with real callings—just like you. Whether your goal is to serve in your local church, officiate weddings, or prepare for chaplaincy, this license can be the beginning of a powerful ministry journey.
Click Links to Find out about more Minister Roles
Learn about the Coaching Minister Program
Learn about the Ministry Chaplain Program
Learn about the Fully Ordained Minister Program
Click Links about Officiant Roles at the Christian Leaders Alliance
Learn More about the Wedding Officiant
Learn More about the Romance Officiant
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