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How to Get Married Online in Colorado (Complete 2026 Guide)

If you’re hoping for a fast, easy, and stress-free way to get legally married in Colorado, an online wedding ceremony can be the perfect solution. Traditional weddings often involve courthouse appointments, travel, scheduling conflicts, and a long list of logistical tasks.

With an online marriage, couples can skip all of that and complete the whole process from home — legally and quickly.

This guide explains everything you need to know about getting married online in Colorado, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings streamlines the entire experience.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean for Colorado Couples?

Colorado allows some flexibility that many states don’t — couples can self-solemnize in person without an officiant. But for a standard marriage through the county, you still must appear in person to get your license and complete the ceremony physically within the state.

However, Colorado residents can legally get married online by using Utah’s completely digital marriage license and ceremony system, which is recognized nationwide.

If your marriage is legally performed in another U.S. state, Colorado accepts it automatically as long as it meets state and federal laws.

This is what makes online marriages possible for Colorado couples.

Are Online Marriages Legal for People Living in Colorado?

Yes. Here’s why it works.

Utah’s Fully Digital Marriage System

In 2019, Utah County launched the first fully online marriage process in the United States. Through this system, couples can:

  • Complete their marriage license application online
  • Hold a virtual wedding ceremony
  • Have the officiant file everything electronically
  • Receive an official, legally recognized U.S. marriage certificate

You do not have to live in Utah to use this system, which is what makes it accessible to Colorado residents.

Nationwide Legal Recognition

A marriage legally completed in Utah is honored across all 50 states — including Colorado.
This national recognition is the foundation that makes Distant Weddings possible.

Traditional Colorado Marriage Requirements (In Person)

If you choose to follow Colorado’s standard, in-person marriage process, you’ll typically need:

ID Requirements

Both partners must appear together and bring one of the following:

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

(Some counties may request additional documents depending on your situation.)

Information You’ll Need to Provide

  • Legal names, birthdates, and places of birth
  • Parents’ names and birthplaces
  • Details about previous marriages
  • Intended married name (optional)

License Validity

A Colorado marriage license is valid for 35 days.

Ceremony & Witness Requirements

Colorado is unique: you may self-solemnize your marriage, meaning no officiant or witnesses are required.
However, this must still take place in person within Colorado.

County Variations

Fees, rules, and appointment availability vary by county.

Many couples choose an online marriage instead for speed, convenience, and no travel requirements.

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

Here’s the important distinction:

Online Marriage License (Not Fully Online)

Some states allow online license applications but still require:

✔ An in-person ceremony
✔ Physical presence in the state
✔ Traditional marriage steps

Online Marriage Ceremony (What Distant Weddings Offers)

A true online marriage includes:

✔ Digital license
✔ Full ceremony online
✔ Virtual officiant
✔ No need to enter a courthouse
✔ Valid U.S. marriage certificate afterward

This is the simplest option for Colorado couples wanting a 100% remote experience.

Why Colorado Couples Choose Online Marriage

Here’s how a traditional Colorado marriage compares to an online ceremony through Distant Weddings:

Feature

Traditional Colorado Marriage

Online Marriage with Distant Weddings

Apply for license online

❌ Not fully

✅ Yes, completely online

In-person visit required

✅ Yes

❌ None

Ceremony location

Must be in Colorado

Anywhere with internet

Witnesses required

Not required

Not required (or provided if desired)

Speed

Days–weeks

24–48 hours

Paperwork

Manual

Fully digital

Valid in Colorado

Yes

Yes (nationally recognized)

How to Get Married Online in Colorado with Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings partners with Utah County’s official online marriage system to give Colorado couples a legally recognized, fully remote marriage process.

Here’s how it works:

1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account

Sign up — it takes only a minute.
Once your profile is set, you can move forward immediately.

2. Select Your Ceremony Type & Date

Choose the style you want for your ceremony: simple, symbolic, modern, religious, or minimalist.
We’ll automatically match you with a licensed U.S. officiant based on your preferred time and date.

3. Complete Secure Online ID Verification

We handle the licensing digitally:

✔ No paperwork
✔ No courthouse visit
✔ No long applications

4. Join Your Online Wedding Ceremony

Log in from any phone, laptop, or tablet.
The ceremony typically lasts about 15 minutes.
Family and friends can join virtually if you’d like.

5. Receive Your Legal U.S. Marriage Certificate

You will receive:

  • A digital marriage certificate immediately
  • A printed copy mailed within 1–2 weeks

Your certificate is valid anywhere in the United States.

Getting Your Online Marriage Recognized Internationally (Apostille)

If you plan to use your marriage certificate outside the U.S. — for immigration, residency, or government documentation — you may need an Apostille.

Distant Weddings provides guidance to make this step quick and easy.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in Colorado

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

Do we need to be in Colorado during our ceremony?
No. You can participate from anywhere in the world.

Do we need witnesses?
Colorado doesn’t require witnesses for marriage, but if you want them, Distant Weddings can provide virtual witnesses.

How long does the process take?
Most couples complete everything in 24–48 hours.

Is this valid for immigration?
Yes, but an Apostille may be required depending on your situation. We can guide you through the process.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in Colorado

For couples who want a quick, modern, and stress-free way to get legally married, Distant Weddings offers the simplest solution available. You can complete the entire process — licensing, ceremony, and certification — 100% online without stepping foot in a county office.

Eliminate the stress of wedding logistics and focus on what really matters: celebrating your marriage.

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.

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How to Get Married Online in Colorado (Complete 2026 Guide)