How to Get Married Online in New Jersey (Complete 2026 Guide)

If you’re trying to get legally married in New Jersey without dealing with office appointments, time-consuming paperwork, or in-person ceremonies, an online wedding may be the perfect alternative.
Instead of coordinating schedules, traveling to a clerk’s office, or planning a traditional ceremony, you can complete the entire marriage process from home — fast, simple, and fully legal.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting married online as a New Jersey resident: legality, requirements, timelines, and how Distant Weddings makes it incredibly easy.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean for New Jersey Residents?

New Jersey still requires several in-person steps if you choose a traditional marriage, including appearing at the local registrar’s office and completing an in-person ceremony with witnesses.

However — and here’s the key —
New Jersey residents can legally get married online by using Utah’s fully digital marriage license and virtual ceremony system.

Because any marriage that is legally performed in a U.S. state must be recognized nationwide, New Jersey accepts marriages completed online through Utah’s system, provided they meet federal requirements.

This legal framework is what makes online marriage possible for NJ couples.

Are Online Marriages Legal in New Jersey?

Yes — and the reason is straightforward.

Utah’s 100% Online Marriage System

In 2019, Utah County launched the nation’s first fully digital marriage platform, allowing couples to:

• Apply for a marriage license online
  
• Complete secure ID verification
  
• Hold their wedding ceremony online
  
• Have the officiant file everything electronically
  
• Receive an official U.S. marriage certificate

   

You don’t have to live in — or even visit — Utah to use this system.

Recognized in All 50 States, Including New Jersey

Once a marriage is legally performed in Utah, it’s valid everywhere in the U.S.
That includes New Jersey.

Distant Weddings uses this legally recognized system to provide NJ couples with a streamlined, fully remote experience.

Traditional New Jersey Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

If you choose a standard New Jersey marriage, here’s what the process usually involves:

Identification Requirements

Both individuals must appear in person with:

• Driver’s license
  
• Passport
  
• State ID
  
• (Some municipalities may request birth certificates or additional documentation)

   

Information You Must Provide

Registrars typically require:

• Full legal names, birth dates, and birthplaces
  
• Parents’ names and birthplaces
  
• Details about previous marriages
  
• Intended married name (optional)

   

Waiting Period

New Jersey requires a 72-hour waiting period after applying for the marriage license.

License Validity

A New Jersey marriage license is valid for 30 days.

Ceremony Requirements

• Ceremony must occur within New Jersey
  
• Witnesses and an authorized officiant are required
  
• Paperwork must be returned to the local registrar

Because each town may have different rules, fees, and appointment availability, many couples choose an online ceremony to avoid the delays.

Online Marriage License vs. Online Marriage Ceremony

These two terms are often confused, so here’s what they mean:

Online Marriage License

Some states allow online applications, but still require:
✔ An in-person ceremony
✔ Presence within state boundaries
✔ Standard documentation

Online Marriage Ceremony (What Distant Weddings Offers)

This is a fully remote wedding experience:
✔ 100% digital license
✔ Ceremony performed online
✔ Officiant connected virtually
✔ No travel or office visits
✔ Valid U.S. marriage certificate issued

This is the simplest option for New Jersey couples wanting a legally binding online marriage.

Why New Jersey Couples Choose Online Marriage

A quick comparison:

How to Get Married Online in New Jersey With Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings connects you with Utah County’s completely online marriage system, giving New Jersey residents a fast and legitimate alternative to traditional weddings.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account

Sign up on the website — it’s quick.
Once you’re logged in, you can begin the process immediately.

2. Pick Your Ceremony Style & Date

Choose the ceremony feel you want: simple, modern, romantic, religious, or symbolic.
We’ll match you with a licensed officiant based on your date and time.

3. Complete Secure ID Verification

All licensing is handled online with safe, digital identity checks.

✔ No paperwork
✔ No office visits
✔ No complicated forms

4. Attend Your Online Wedding Ceremony

Join from your laptop, phone, or tablet.
Ceremonies typically last around 10–15 minutes, and guests can attend virtually.

5. Receive Your Official U.S. Marriage Certificate

After the ceremony, you’ll receive:

• A digital copy of your certificate
  
• A printed version delivered within 1–2 weeks

Your marriage certificate is valid everywhere in the United States.

Using Your Online Marriage Certificate Internationally (Apostille)

If you plan to use your marriage certificate outside the U.S. (for immigration, visas, residency, etc.), you may need an Apostille.

Distant Weddings provides guidance to help you complete that step without stress.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in New Jersey

Is an online marriage legal for NJ residents?

Yes. New Jersey honors marriages legally performed in any U.S. state.

Do we have to be in New Jersey during the ceremony?

No — you can participate from anywhere with internet access.

Do we need witnesses?

If witnesses are required, Distant Weddings can provide them.

How long does the process take?

Most couples complete everything within 24–48 hours.

Is this valid for immigration purposes?

Yes. Many couples use their Utah-issued certificate for immigration, though an Apostille may be required.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in New Jersey

For couples looking for a fast, simple, and fully remote way to get legally married, Distant Weddings offers the most convenient option. You can complete the entire process — from the application to the ceremony to receiving your certificate — without stepping foot in a clerk’s office.

Focus on celebrating your relationship, and let Distant Weddings handle the rest.