How to Get Married Online in North Carolina (Complete 2026 Guide)
If you’re hoping for a fast, simple, and stress-free way to get legally married in North Carolina, an online wedding ceremony may be the perfect solution. Traditional marriage procedures in NC often involve county appointments, travel, scheduling conflicts, and stacks of paperwork.
With an online marriage, you can avoid all the hassle and complete the entire process from the comfort of home — quickly, securely, and 100% legally.
This guide explains exactly how North Carolina couples can get married online, the legal basis behind it, and how Distant Weddings makes the entire experience smooth and convenient.
What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean in North Carolina?
A standard marriage in North Carolina still requires in-person steps, including appearing before the Register of Deeds to get your license and holding a physical ceremony with witnesses.
However, North Carolina residents have another option:
A fully online marriage through Utah’s digital marriage licensing and virtual ceremony system.
Because North Carolina recognizes any marriage legally performed in another U.S. state, a marriage completed online in Utah is automatically valid in NC — as long as it meets federal and state standards.
This legal framework is what allows Distant Weddings to offer online marriage to North Carolina couples.
Are Online Marriages Legal for North Carolina Residents?
Yes — completely.
Here’s how it works:
Utah’s Digital Marriage System
In 2019, Utah County launched the nation’s first complete online marriage platform, which allows couples to:
- Apply for a marriage license online
- Hold the ceremony online
- Have the officiant submit documents electronically
- Receive an official U.S. marriage certificate
- Participate from anywhere in the world
No residency in Utah is required.
National Recognition
A marriage legally performed in Utah is recognized across all 50 states — including North Carolina.
This nationwide reciprocity is the legal basis for Distant Weddings’ completely online marriage service.
Traditional North Carolina Marriage Requirements (In-Person)
If you choose the traditional route, here’s what the process typically involves in NC:
ID Requirements
Both people must appear in person and present:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued ID
- Passport
- Military ID
(Some counties may ask for additional documents.)
Information You’ll Need
NC counties usually require:
- Full legal name, date and place of birth
- Parents’ names and birthplaces
- Details about any previous marriages
- Intended post-marriage name (optional)
License Validity
A North Carolina marriage license is valid for 60 days.
Witness & Ceremony Requirements
- Two witnesses are required at an in-person ceremony
- Ceremony must take place within NC
- Requirements may vary slightly by county
Because of long lines, limited appointments, and travel requirements, many couples choose the faster, fully remote online marriage option instead.
Online Marriage License vs. Online Marriage Ceremony
Understanding the difference helps avoid confusion.
Online Marriage License
Some states allow an online license application but still require:
✔ In-person ceremony
✔ Physical presence in the state
✔ Traditional documentation steps
Online Marriage (What Distant Weddings Offers)
With a full online marriage:
✔ Digital license
✔ Online ceremony
✔ Virtual officiant
✔ No travel required
✔ Valid U.S. marriage certificate
This is the simplest option for North Carolina couples who want a fully online experience.
Why North Carolina Couples Choose an Online Marriage
Here’s how a traditional NC marriage compares to a fully online one:
Feature | Traditional NC Marriage | Online Marriage with Distant Weddings |
Apply online | ❌ Rarely | ✅ Always |
In-person visit required | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Ceremony must happen in NC | ✅ Yes | ❌ No – anywhere online |
Witnesses required | Yes | Provided if needed |
Processing time | Days–weeks | 24–48 hours |
Paperwork | Manual | Fully digital |
Valid in North Carolina | Yes | Yes (recognized nationwide) |
How to Get Married Online in North Carolina With Distant Weddings
Distant Weddings uses Utah’s official digital marriage system to give NC couples a fast, hassle-free, and legally binding online wedding.
Here’s how the process works:
1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account
Sign up in minutes. Once your account is created, you can begin immediately.
2. Select Your Ceremony Style & Date
Choose the ceremony style you prefer — simple, religious, romantic, contemporary, or symbolic.
We match you with a licensed U.S. officiant based on your schedule and preferences.
3. Complete Secure Online ID Verification
We handle everything digitally through a secure verification system.
✔ No paperwork
✔ No visits to the Register of Deeds
✔ No long forms
4. Enjoy Your Online Wedding Ceremony
Join the ceremony from any device — laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
The ceremony usually lasts about 15 minutes, and guests can join virtually if you’d like.
5. Receive Your Legal U.S. Marriage Certificate
You’ll receive:
- A digital copy of your marriage certificate immediately
- A physical certificate mailed within 1–2 weeks
Your certificate is valid in all 50 states, including North Carolina.
Getting Your Online Marriage Recognized Internationally (Apostille)
If one of you lives abroad or you need to use your marriage certificate internationally, you may need an apostille. This certification verifies your marriage for use in other countries.
Distant Weddings can guide you through this step effortlessly.
FAQs About Getting Married Online in North Carolina
Is an online marriage legal for North Carolina residents?
Yes. NC recognizes any marriage legally performed in another U.S. state, including Utah’s online marriage system.
Do we need to be in North Carolina during the ceremony?
No — you can be anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection.
Do we need witnesses?
If you don’t have witnesses available, Distant Weddings can provide them.
How quickly can we get married online?
Most couples complete the full process in 24–48 hours.
Is the marriage valid for immigration?
Yes. Many couples applying for immigration also need an apostille, which Distant Weddings can help you obtain.
Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in North Carolina
For couples seeking a fast, simple, and legally recognized marriage option, Distant Weddings offers the easiest and most modern solution available. You can complete your license, ceremony, and certificate entirely online — without ever visiting a county office.
Make wedding planning stress-free and focus on celebrating your commitment.
Get Married Online
Get married online with Distant Weddings. We’ll guide you step by step through our 3-step process, ensuring the process is simple & easy.
