If you’re looking for a fast, simple, and stress-free way to get legally married in California, an online wedding ceremony may be the perfect option. Traditional weddings involve scheduling, travel, county appointments, and a long list of to-dos.

With an online marriage, couples can skip all the hassle and complete the entire process from home — quickly and legally.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to get married online in California, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings makes the process easy.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean in California?

California still requires in-person steps for a typical marriage — including appearing at the County Clerk’s office and holding an in-person ceremony with witnesses.

However, California residents can legally get married online using Utah’s digital marriage license system, which is recognized nationwide.

If a marriage is legally performed in any U.S. state, California automatically honors it, as long as it meets federal and state laws.

That’s what makes online marriage possible for California couples.

Are Online Marriages Legal for California Residents?

Yes — and here’s why.

A Modern Digital Marriage System

In 2019, Utah County developed the nation’s first fully online marriage system. The platform allows couples to:

• Apply for a marriage license online
  
• Hold their ceremony online
  
• Have the officiant file documents electronically
  
• Receive an official U.S. marriage certificate
  
  

You do not need to live in Utah to use this system.

Nationwide Recognition

Marriages legally performed in Utah are recognized across all 50 states, including California.

This is the legal foundation behind Distant Weddings.

Traditional California Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

If you choose to get married traditionally in California, here’s what you’ll typically need to do:

ID Requirements

Both partners must appear in person and show:

• Driver’s license
  
• State ID
  
• Passport
  
• Military ID
  (Some counties may require a birth certificate.)
  
  

Additional Details Needed

• Legal name, birth date, and birthplace
  
• Parents’ names and birthplaces
  
• Information about previous marriages
  
• Your intended post-marriage name (optional)
  
  

License Validity

A California marriage license is valid for 90 days.

Witness & Location Requirements

The ceremony must be performed physically in California, with the officiant and witnesses present.

County Variations

Fees, appointments, and rules vary by county.

This leads many couples to choose the much faster online marriage alternative instead.

Online Marriage License vs. Online Marriage: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference helps avoid confusion.

Online Marriage License

Some states let you apply for your license online, but still require:
✔ In-person ceremony
✔ Being physically in the state
✔ Traditional requirements

Online Marriage Ceremony (What Distant Weddings Provides)

With a full online marriage:
✔ License issued digitally
✔ Ceremony completed online
✔ Officiant connected virtually
✔ No physical presence required
✔ Valid U.S. marriage certificate provided

This is the easiest option for California couples wanting a fully remote process.

Why California Couples Choose Online Marriage

Here’s how online marriage compares to a traditional ceremony:

Comparison Table

How to Get Married Online in California With Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings uses the official Utah County digital marriage process to give California couples a fast, legal online marriage experience.

Here’s how it works:

1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account

Start by signing up — it only takes a minute.
Once your account is created, you can begin the process immediately.

2. Choose Your Ceremony Style & Date

Pick the ceremony vibe you want: simple, symbolic, religious, or modern.
We automatically match you with a licensed U.S. officiant based on your date and time preferences.

3. Complete Secure ID Verification

We handle licensing through secure digital verification.
✔ No paperwork
✔ No county office visits
✔ No long forms

4. Enjoy Your Online Wedding Ceremony

Log in from any device — phone, laptop, or tablet.
Your ceremony typically lasts around 15 minutes.
Family and friends can join virtually.

5. Receive Your Legal U.S. Marriage Certificate

You’ll receive:

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

Your certificate is valid across the United States.

Getting Your Online Marriage Recognized Internationally (Apostille)

If one of you lives outside the U.S. or you plan to use your marriage certificate abroad, you may need an Apostille certification. This allows foreign governments to officially recognize your U.S. marriage.

Distant Weddings provides guidance to help you complete this step easily.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in California

Is an online marriage legal for California residents?

Yes. California recognizes marriages legally performed in another U.S. state, including Utah’s digital online system.

Do we need to be in California during the ceremony?

No — you can be anywhere as long as you have internet access.

Do we need witnesses?

If needed, Distant Weddings can provide witnesses at no extra hassle.

How fast is the process?

Most couples complete everything within 24–48 hours.

Will our marriage be valid for immigration?

Yes, but couples applying for immigration often need an Apostille. We can guide you through it.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in California

For couples wanting a simple, fast, and stress-free way to get legally married, Distant Weddings is the easiest option available. You can complete the entire process — application, ceremony, and paperwork — entirely online without visiting any county office.

Take the pressure off wedding planning and focus on what matters most: celebrating your relationship.