More couples than ever are choosing to get married online legally, and for good reason. Busy schedules, long-distance relationships, deployed service members, and a desire for a simpler process have all pushed online weddings into the mainstream. If you're asking how to get married online, the short answer is yes, it's possible in several U.S. states, and the process is more straightforward than most people expect.
This guide walks through exactly how the process works, which states allow it, and what military couples and same sex couples need to know before saying "I do" through a screen.
Can You Legally Get Married Online?
Yes, can you legally get married online in select U.S. states that permit remote officiating and video-based ceremonies. This isn't a loophole or a gray area; it's a legitimate legal process supported by state legislation.
States like Utah, Colorado, Nevada, and Montana currently allow couples to complete their entire marriage process online, from applying for a license to having the ceremony officiated over video call.
The marriage license issued through these programs carries the same legal weight as one obtained through a traditional courthouse wedding, as long as state requirements are properly followed.
How to Get Married Online: Step-by-Step Process
Understanding how to get married online starts with knowing the general sequence most states follow. While specific steps vary slightly by state, the core process looks like this:
Choose an eligible state. Not every state permits online marriage, so select one that legally supports remote ceremonies.
Apply for a marriage license online. Most platforms let both partners complete an application through a secure portal.
Verify identity. You'll typically upload a government-issued ID and sometimes complete a live video verification.
Schedule your video ceremony. A licensed officiant conducts the wedding over a live video call.
Sign the marriage license electronically. Both spouses and the officiant sign digitally.
Receive your certified marriage certificate. This document is mailed or filed with the appropriate county office.
Each step is designed to mirror an in-person wedding while removing geographic barriers.
Why Getting Married Online Legally Matters
Online marriage isn't just a convenience trend; it solves real problems for real couples. Understanding why this option matters helps explain its growing popularity.
Accessibility for long-distance couples who can't easily coordinate travel schedules
Support for military families managing deployments or short leave windows
Cost savings, since online licensing often costs less than traditional courthouse fees
Flexibility for couples with disabilities or health concerns that make in-person appointments difficult
Faster processing times compared to some traditional county offices
For many couples, the ability to get married online legally removes stress from an already significant life decision.
Military Marriage Online: What Service Members Need to Know
Military marriage online has become an important option for active-duty personnel who face deployment schedules, base restrictions, or short-notice orders that make traditional wedding planning difficult.
Service members considering a military marriage online should keep a few specifics in mind:
Confirm that the chosen state's online marriage license is recognized by military legal offices.
Keep a digital and physical copy of the marriage certificate for military records and benefits processing.
Check with a base legal assistance office regarding any additional documentation needed for dependent status or overseas assignments.
Time zone differences should be communicated clearly with the officiant when scheduling.
Because military benefits, healthcare, and housing allowances often depend on marital status, having a legally recognized certificate is essential, not optional.
Documentation Tips for Military Couples
Service members should request extra certified copies of their marriage certificate. These are often needed for base ID cards, DEERS enrollment, and dependent benefit applications.
Same Sex Marriage Online: Requirements and Recognition
Same sex marriage online is fully legal across the United States, and the process mirrors that of any other couple applying through an approved state program.
Since same sex marriage is federally protected, couples do not face additional legal hurdles beyond the standard requirements:
Both partners must meet the state's minimum age requirement, typically 18.
Neither partner can be currently married to someone else.
Valid government-issued identification is required for both applicants.
Some states require at least one partner to have a connection to that state, while others do not.
Same sex couples pursuing an online wedding should still confirm that their chosen officiant is licensed and that the state explicitly issues certificates without discriminatory restrictions, though this is now standard nationwide.
States That Allow You to Get Married Online Legally
Not every state offers this option, so choosing the right one matters. Some of the most established programs include:
Utah – One of the first states to formalize online marriage, with a well-documented legal framework.
Colorado – Allows self-solemnization in addition to officiant-led online ceremonies.
Nevada – Offers fast processing and 24/7 licensing services.
Montana – A popular choice for couples who don't reside in the state, since it doesn't require in-person presence at any point.
Before choosing a state, verify current requirements, since laws can change and processing platforms may update their procedures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Marrying Online
Even though the process is simpler than a traditional wedding, small errors can cause delays or legal complications.
Not double-checking that both partners' legal names match their identification documents.
Skipping the confirmation step for how the certificate will be delivered or filed.
Assuming every state has identical online marriage rules.
Forgetting to request additional certified copies for name changes, benefits, or insurance updates.
Taking a few extra minutes to review these details helps avoid unnecessary complications after the ceremony.
Conclusion
Getting married online legally is no longer a niche option. It's a practical, legitimate path for couples who need flexibility, whether due to distance, military service, or personal preference. Knowing how to get married online, understanding state-specific rules, and confirming documentation requirements ensures a smooth process from application to certificate.
Whether you're planning a military marriage online or exploring same sex marriage online options, the key takeaway is this: with the right state, the right officiant, and the right paperwork, an online wedding carries the same legal standing as any traditional ceremony.
FAQs
1. Can you legally get married online in every U.S. state? No. Only a handful of states, including Utah, Colorado, Nevada, and Montana, currently allow the full marriage process to be completed online. Always confirm your chosen state's current laws before applying.
2. How to get married online if we live in different states? Most online marriage programs don't require both partners to reside in the officiating state, especially in places like Montana. Both partners simply need valid identification and to complete the video ceremony together.
3. Is a military marriage online recognized by the Department of Defense? Yes, as long as the marriage license and certificate are issued by a state with a legally recognized online marriage program. Service members should still confirm documentation requirements with their base legal office.
4. Are there special requirements for same sex marriage online? No additional legal requirements exist beyond standard identification, age, and eligibility rules, since same sex marriage is federally recognized nationwide.
5. How long does it take to get married online legally? Processing times vary by state, but many programs issue licenses within a few business days, with some offering same-day or expedited services.
6. Do online marriages require witnesses? Some states require a witness during the video ceremony, while others allow self-solemnization without one. Check your chosen state's specific rules beforehand.
7. Can I change my name after getting married online? Yes. Once you receive your certified marriage certificate, you can use it to update your name with the Social Security Administration, DMV, and other institutions, just as you would after a traditional wedding.
8. Is an online wedding cheaper than a traditional courthouse wedding? In many cases, yes. Online marriage licensing fees are often comparable to or lower than in-person courthouse fees, and they eliminate travel-related costs.
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