Distant Weddings

Missouri flag – how to get married online in Missouri guide

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

If you’re looking for a fast, convenient, and stress-free way to get legally married in Missouri, an online wedding ceremony may be the perfect solution. Traditional weddings often involve scheduling, traveling to the county clerk, and handling lengthy paperwork.

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

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about marrying online in Missouri, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings simplifies the process.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean in Missouri?

A traditional Missouri wedding requires couples to obtain a marriage license in person and hold a ceremony with an officiant and witnesses physically present.

However, Missouri residents can legally marry online using Utah’s digital marriage license system, which is recognized across the United States.

As long as a marriage is legally performed in another U.S. state, Missouri automatically recognizes it under federal and state law. This allows couples to take advantage of fully online weddings.

Are Online Marriages Legal for Missouri Residents?

Yes — here’s why.

Utah’s Digital Marriage Platform

Utah County introduced the nation’s first fully online marriage system in 2019. This platform allows couples to:

  • Apply for a marriage license online
  • Hold a virtual wedding ceremony
  • Have the officiant file documents electronically
  • Receive a legal U.S. marriage certificate

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

Nationwide Recognition

Marriages performed through Utah’s online system are recognized in all 50 states, including Missouri.
This is the legal basis that Distant Weddings uses to provide fully online weddings.

Traditional Missouri Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

If you choose a traditional Missouri wedding, here’s what you’ll need:

Identification

Both partners must appear in person and provide:

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

Some counties may also ask for a birth certificate.

Additional Information

  • Legal names, birth dates, and birthplaces
  • Parents’ names and birthplaces
  • Previous marriage details
  • Intended surname after marriage (optional)

License Validity

A Missouri marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued.

Ceremony & Witnesses

  • Ceremony must take place in Missouri
  • Must have an officiant authorized to perform marriages in the state
  • At least two witnesses are required

County Variations

Fees, appointments, and other requirements differ by county, which is why many couples prefer the online option.

Online Marriage License vs. Full Online Wedding

Online Marriage License

Some states allow couples to apply for a license online but still require:

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

Full Online Wedding (Distant Weddings)

Distant Weddings provides a fully virtual experience:

✔ License issued digitally
✔ Ceremony conducted online
✔ Licensed officiant connected remotely
✔ No physical presence required
✔ Legal U.S. marriage certificate

This is the easiest option for Missouri couples who want a completely online process.

Why Missouri Couples Choose Online Marriage

Feature

Traditional Missouri Marriage

Online Marriage with Distant Weddings

Apply for license online

❌ Usually no

✅ 100% online

In-person visit required

✅ Yes

❌ Not required

Ceremony location

Must be in Missouri

Anywhere with internet

Witnesses required

Yes

Provided if needed

Speed

Days–weeks

24–48 hours

Paperwork

Manual

Fully digital

Valid in Missouri

Yes

Yes — recognized nationwide

How to Get Married Online in Missouri with Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings uses Utah County’s official digital marriage system to give Missouri couples a fast, legal online wedding.

1. Create Your Account

Sign up in minutes to begin your wedding process immediately.

2. Choose Your Ceremony Style & Date

Pick the ceremony style you want: simple, symbolic, religious, or modern.
Distant Weddings matches you with a licensed officiant based on your preferred date and time.

3. Complete Secure ID Verification

Licensing is handled digitally:

✔ No paperwork
✔ No county visits
✔ Quick and secure

4. Enjoy Your Online Wedding Ceremony

Log in from a phone, tablet, or computer.
Ceremonies typically last around 15 minutes, and family and friends can join virtually.

5. Receive Your Legal Marriage Certificate

You’ll receive:

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

Your marriage is recognized in Missouri and across the U.S.

Getting Your Online Marriage Recognized Internationally (Apostille)

If you plan to use your marriage certificate abroad, an Apostille may be needed.
Distant Weddings provides step-by-step guidance to make this process simple.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in Missouri

Is an online marriage legal for Missouri residents?
Yes. Missouri recognizes marriages legally performed in another U.S. state, including Utah’s online system.

Do we need to be in Missouri during the ceremony?
No — you can be anywhere with internet access.

Are witnesses required?
Distant Weddings can provide witnesses if needed.

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

Will our marriage be valid for immigration purposes?
Yes. Couples applying for immigration may need an Apostille, and Distant Weddings can help.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in Missouri

For couples seeking a simple, fast, and fully legal wedding, Distant Weddings is the easiest solution.
Complete your application, ceremony, and marriage certificate entirely online, without ever visiting a county office.

Skip the stress of traditional wedding planning and focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love.

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.