The LDS Church holds that the priesthood — both the Aaronic (lesser) and Melchizedek (greater) priesthoods — is held by worthy male members. Boys may be ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood at age 12; men may be ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood. The priesthood is understood as the authority to act in God's name for the salvation of his children, including administering ordinances.

Women do not hold the LDS priesthood, though they exercise priesthood power in temple ordinances and serve in significant leadership roles — as General Officers of church organizations (Relief Society, Young Women, Primary) and as leaders in local auxiliaries. The LDS church's position on male-only priesthood has been consistent throughout its history, though the 2023 general conference introduced some expanded roles for women in officiating at certain ordinances.