If you want a fast, easy, and stress-free way to get legally married in Illinois, an online wedding could be the perfect solution. Traditional weddings often involve scheduling, travel, county clerk visits, and heaps of paperwork.

With an online marriage, couples can complete everything from the comfort of home — legally, quickly, and hassle-free.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting married online in Illinois, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings makes it simple.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean in Illinois?

Illinois generally requires in-person steps for a traditional marriage — like appearing at the County Clerk to obtain a marriage license and having a ceremony with witnesses.

However, Illinois residents can legally marry online using Utah’s digital marriage license system, which is recognized nationwide. Since Illinois honors marriages legally performed in other states, a Utah online wedding is fully valid in Illinois.

This makes online weddings a legal and convenient option for Illinois couples.

Are Online Marriages Legal for Illinois Residents?

Yes — here’s why.

Utah’s Digital Marriage Platform

Utah County created the first fully online marriage system in the U.S. in 2019. Using this platform, couples can:

• Apply for a marriage license digitally
  
• Hold the wedding ceremony online
  
• Have the officiant submit documents electronically
  
• Receive a valid U.S. marriage certificate
  
  

You don’t need to live in Utah to use the system.

Nationwide Recognition

Marriages completed via Utah’s online system are recognized in all 50 states, including Illinois.
This is the legal basis for Distant Weddings’ fully online marriage services.

Traditional Illinois Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

For couples opting for a conventional Illinois wedding, here’s what’s typically required:

Identification

Both partners must appear in person and show:

• Driver’s license
  
• State ID
  
• Passport
  
• Military ID

Some counties may request a birth certificate.

Additional Information

• Full legal names, birth dates, and birthplaces
  
• Parents’ names and birthplaces
  
• Information about previous marriages
  
• Intended post-marriage name (optional)
  

License Validity

An Illinois marriage license is generally valid for 60 days.

Ceremony & Witnesses

• Ceremony must occur in Illinois
  
• At least two witnesses are required
  
• Officiants must be authorized to perform marriages in Illinois
  

County Variations

Fees, rules, and scheduling differ by county, which is why many couples choose the faster online alternative.

Online Marriage License vs. Full Online Wedding

Online Marriage License

Some states allow online license applications but still require:

✔ In-person ceremony
✔ Being physically present in the state
✔ Traditional paperwork

Full Online Wedding (Distant Weddings)

With a full online wedding:

✔ License issued digitally
✔ Ceremony conducted online with a licensed officiant
✔ No physical presence needed
✔ Valid U.S. marriage certificate

This is the easiest option for Illinois couples looking for a fully remote marriage experience.

Why Illinois Couples Choose Online Weddings

How to Get Married Online in Illinois with Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings uses Utah County’s official digital marriage system to provide Illinois couples a fast, legal, and fully online wedding experience.

1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account

Sign up in minutes and start your process immediately.

2. Pick Your Ceremony Style & Date

Choose from simple, symbolic, religious, or modern styles.
We match you with a licensed officiant based on your preferred date and time.

3. Complete Secure Digital ID Verification

Licensing is handled securely online:

✔ No county office visits
✔ No long forms
✔ Fully digital verification

4. Celebrate Your Online Wedding

Join from any device — phone, tablet, or laptop.
Ceremonies usually last about 15 minutes, and friends/family can attend virtually.

5. Receive Your Legal U.S. Marriage Certificate

You’ll get:

• Instant digital certificate
  
• Printed copy delivered in 1–2 weeks
  

Your marriage is legally recognized across the U.S.

Getting Your Online Marriage Recognized Internationally (Apostille)

For couples living abroad or needing to use the certificate internationally, an Apostille may be required.
Distant Weddings provides guidance to make this process simple.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in Illinois

Is an online marriage legal for Illinois residents?
Yes. Illinois recognizes marriages legally performed in other states, including Utah’s online system.

Do we need to be in Illinois for the ceremony?
No — you can join from anywhere with internet access.

Are witnesses required?
Distant Weddings can provide witnesses if necessary.

How quickly can we get married online?
Most couples finish the entire process in 24–48 hours.

Will our marriage be valid for immigration purposes?
Yes. Couples applying for immigration may need an Apostille, and Distant Weddings can guide you.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in Illinois

For couples seeking a simple, fast, and legally recognized wedding, Distant Weddings offers the easiest option.
The full process — from application to ceremony to certificate — is completed online without visiting any county office.

Skip the stress of planning a traditional wedding and focus on celebrating your love.