How to Schedule and Prepare for an LDS Temple Appointment

What a temple appointment is and how to request one

An LDS (Latter-day Saint) temple appointment is a scheduled time slot to enter a temple and participate in religious ordinances or ceremonies. Unlike walking into a chapel for Sunday services, temple attendance requires advance planning. You contact your local temple directly to request a specific date and time, and the temple staff confirms whether that slot is open.

The process differs slightly by temple and by what you are doing there. If you are going through temple ordinances for the first time, you will need a temple recommend — a document signed by your bishop and stake president confirming you meet membership standards. If you already have a recommend, you can call or use your temple's online scheduling system to book a time. Some temples use the Church's official scheduling portal; others manage appointments by phone.

You do not need to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to visit certain temples during open house events, but regular temple appointments are for members only. If you are a member preparing for your first temple visit, your bishop can walk you through the recommend process and explain what to expect.

Key Takeaways

• Temple appointments must be scheduled in advance by contacting your local temple directly, either by phone or through the temple's online system.
• A current temple recommend is required for most temple appointments and is obtained from your bishop and stake president.
• Different temples have different scheduling systems, so the method for booking depends on which temple you plan to visit.
• First-time visitors should speak with their bishop beforehand to understand the recommend process and what ordinances involve.
• Temple hours and appointment availability vary by location and season, so calling ahead confirms whether your preferred date has openings.

How to find your local temple's scheduling system

The Church maintains a directory of all operating temples on its official website, organized by location. You can search by state or country to find the temple nearest you, along with its phone number and hours of operation. Once you have identified your temple, contact it directly — this is the most reliable way to learn which scheduling method it uses.

Some temples use an online portal where you log in with your Church account and select available time slots. Others require you to call during business hours and speak with temple staff. A few smaller temples may ask you to submit a request by email. The temple's main phone line or website will tell you which system applies to yours.

If you are unsure whether your recommend is current or valid, the temple staff can check this when you call. They will also tell you if there are any holds on your recommend or if you need to renew it before your visit.

What to bring and wear to your appointment

Dress standards for temple appointments are formal. Men typically wear a dark suit, white dress shirt, and tie. Women wear a modest dress, skirt and blouse, or pantsuit in conservative colors. Avoid bright patterns, sleeveless clothing, and anything sheer or form-fitting. Shoes should be closed-toe and comfortable, since you will be walking and standing during ordinances.

Bring your temple recommend card — this is your entry pass and proof that you are authorized to be there. You will also need a valid photo ID. If you are going through ordinances for the first time, bring a small bag or envelope with a change of clothes, as you will be asked to change into temple clothing for certain ceremonies. The temple provides lockers where you can store your street clothes and personal items.

Do not bring phones, cameras, recording devices, or written notes into the ordinance rooms. The temple is a place of worship and reverence, and these items are not permitted. You may bring a small notebook if you have a specific reason, but ask temple staff first.

Preparing for your first temple visit

If this is your first time, schedule a meeting with your bishop at least a few weeks before your appointment. Your bishop will discuss what temple ordinances are, answer your questions, and explain the recommend interview process. The bishop will ask about your personal worthiness and commitment to Church standards. This is not a test you can fail — it is a conversation to confirm you understand what the temple represents and are ready to participate.

After your bishop approves you, you will meet with your stake president for a similar conversation. Once both have signed your recommend, you are cleared to schedule a temple appointment. Many people find it helpful to read Church materials about temple ordinances beforehand, or to watch videos the Church provides on its website explaining what happens during a first visit.

Arrive at your appointment 10 to 15 minutes early. You will check in at the front desk, show your recommend and ID, and be directed to the appropriate area. Temple staff are trained to help first-time visitors, so do not hesitate to ask questions if you are unsure about anything.

Understanding temple recommend types and renewal

There are two main types of temple recommends: a limited-use recommend and a full-use recommend. A limited-use recommend allows you to attend certain temple ceremonies but not all ordinances — this is typically given to younger members or those preparing for their first full temple experience. A full-use recommend permits you to participate in all temple ordinances, including those performed on behalf of deceased ancestors.

Both types expire after two years. When your recommend is close to expiration, you will receive a notice from your bishop. You can renew it by meeting with your bishop and stake president again — the process is the same as the initial interview. You do not need to wait until it expires to renew; you can do so anytime within the last few months of validity.

If you move to a different area, you can use your current recommend at any temple until it expires, even if it was issued by a different bishop. However, when you renew, you will meet with the bishop in your new ward.

What happens if you cannot keep your appointment

If you need to cancel or reschedule, contact the temple as soon as possible. Most temples ask for at least 24 hours' notice, though some prefer more time. If you are using an online scheduling system, you can usually cancel or change your time slot directly. If you called to book, call back to make changes.

Canceling last-minute or missing an appointment without notice does not affect your recommend or standing in the Church, but it does prevent someone else from using that time slot. Temple staff appreciate advance notice so they can open the slot for another member.

If you are sick or have an emergency, call the temple and explain. Staff understand that life happens, and rescheduling is straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my children to a temple appointment?

Children must be at least 8 years old and have a valid temple recommend to attend. Younger children are not permitted in the ordinance rooms. If you have young children, arrange childcare before your appointment, as the temple does not provide supervision.

What if I do not have a temple recommend yet?

Contact your bishop to begin the recommend process. This typically takes two to four weeks from your first conversation with your bishop to receiving a signed recommend. Plan your temple appointment after you have the recommend in hand, not before.

Can I attend a temple open house without a recommend?

Yes. During open house events, temples are open to the public and no recommend is required. These events happen when a temple is newly built or undergoing renovation. Check the Church's temple directory to see if your local temple has an upcoming open house scheduled.

What if my temple recommend has a hold on it?

A hold means you are not currently authorized to use your recommend. This can happen for various reasons related to Church membership status. Contact your bishop to discuss the hold and what steps are needed to clear it before scheduling a temple appointment.

How long does a typical temple appointment take?

A first-time visit usually takes two to three hours. Subsequent visits may be shorter, depending on which ordinances you are participating in. Plan to spend at least two hours at the temple, and arrive with no other commitments that day.