How to Get Married Online in Rhode Island (Complete 2026 Guide)

If you’re looking for a fast, stress-free, and legally recognized way to get married in Rhode Island, an online wedding could be the perfect choice. Traditional weddings often require appointments, travel, and paperwork, which can be time-consuming and stressful.

With an online marriage, you can complete the entire process from the comfort of home — quickly, safely, and legally.

This guide explains everything Rhode Island couples need to know about getting married online, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings makes it simple.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean for Rhode Island Residents?

Rhode Island usually requires in-person steps for marriage, including obtaining a marriage license at the City or Town Clerk’s office and conducting a ceremony with witnesses.

However, Rhode Island residents can legally marry online using Utah’s digital marriage license system, which is recognized nationwide.

A marriage legally performed in any U.S. state is automatically valid in Rhode Island as long as it meets federal and state regulations. This allows Rhode Island couples to have a fully online wedding.

Are Online Marriages Legal for Rhode Island Couples?

Yes — here’s why.

A Modern Digital Marriage Platform

In 2019, Utah County launched the nation’s first completely online marriage system. This allows couples to:

• Apply for a marriage license online
  
• Conduct their ceremony virtually
  
• Have an officiant submit documents electronically
  
• Receive an official U.S. marriage certificate

You don’t need to live in Utah to use this platform.

Nationwide Recognition

Marriages conducted legally in Utah are recognized in all 50 states, including Rhode Island.

This is the foundation that Distant Weddings uses to provide fast, legal online weddings.

Traditional Rhode Island Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

If you prefer a traditional wedding in Rhode Island, here’s what is typically required:

ID Requirements

Both partners must appear in person and provide one of the following:

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

(Some clerks may request a birth certificate.)

Additional Details

You’ll also need to provide:

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

License Validity

A Rhode Island marriage license is valid for 90 days.

Witness & Ceremony Requirements

• Rhode Island requires at least two witnesses at the ceremony
  
• The ceremony must take place within the state
  
• Fees and requirements vary by city or town

Many couples choose an online marriage instead for speed and convenience.

Online Marriage License vs. Full Online Marriage

Online Marriage License

Some states allow online license applications but still require:

✔ In-person ceremony
✔ Physical presence in the state
✔ Traditional paperwork

Full Online Marriage (Distant Weddings)

With Distant Weddings, Rhode Island couples can:

✔ Obtain a digital marriage license
✔ Conduct the ceremony online
✔ Connect with a licensed officiant virtually
✔ Skip any in-person appearance
✔ Receive a valid U.S. marriage certificate

This option is fast, secure, and entirely remote.

Why Rhode Island Couples Choose Online Marriage

Feature	Traditional Rhode Island Marriage	Online Marriage with Distant Weddings
Apply for license online	❌ Usually no	✅ Fully online
In-person visit required	✅ Yes	❌ No
Ceremony location	Must be in Rhode Island	Anywhere with internet
Witnesses required	Yes	Provided if needed
Speed	Days–weeks	24–48 hours
Paperwork	Manual	Fully digital
Legal recognition	Yes	Yes, nationwide

How to Get Married Online in Rhode Island With Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings uses Utah’s official digital marriage system to provide Rhode Island couples a fast, legal, fully online wedding.

1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account

Sign up in minutes and start immediately.

2. Select Your Ceremony Style & Date

Choose your preferred ceremony style — symbolic, modern, religious, or simple.

We match you with a licensed officiant based on your schedule.

3. Complete Secure ID Verification

Licensing is handled digitally:

✔ No paperwork
✔ No trips to the clerk
✔ Fast and secure

4. Celebrate Your Online Wedding

Log in from any device — phone, tablet, or computer.

The ceremony usually lasts 15 minutes, and family and friends can join virtually.

5. Receive Your Legal U.S. Marriage Certificate

You’ll get:

• Instant digital certificate
  
• Printed certificate mailed in 1–2 weeks

Your marriage is recognized nationwide, including Rhode Island.

International Recognition (Apostille)

If one spouse lives abroad or you plan to use the certificate internationally, an Apostille may be required.

Distant Weddings provides guidance to complete this step efficiently.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in Rhode Island

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

Do we need to be in Rhode Island during the ceremony?
No — you can participate from anywhere with internet access.

Do we need witnesses?
Distant Weddings can provide witnesses if necessary.

How fast is the process?
Most couples complete everything in 24–48 hours.

Will our marriage be valid for immigration purposes?
Yes. Couples may need an Apostille for immigration, which Distant Weddings can assist with.

Conclusion: The Simplest Way to Get Married Online in Rhode Island

For couples seeking a quick, convenient, and legally recognized wedding, Distant Weddings is the easiest solution. Complete your application, ceremony, and marriage certificate fully online — no trips to the clerk required.

Focus on your love and celebration, not paperwork.