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

Looking for a fast, convenient, and stress-free way to get legally married in Pennsylvania? An online wedding might be the ideal solution. Traditional weddings often involve long planning, travel, county appointments, and paperwork, which can feel overwhelming.

With an online marriage, couples can complete everything from the comfort of home — quickly, securely, and legally.

This guide explains everything Pennsylvania couples need to know about getting married online, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings makes the process simple.

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

Normally, Pennsylvania requires in-person steps for marriage, such as obtaining a license at the County Clerk’s office and holding a ceremony with witnesses.

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

Marriages legally performed in any U.S. state are automatically honored in Pennsylvania, provided they meet federal and state laws. This is what allows fully online weddings to be recognized.

Are Online Marriages Legal for Pennsylvania Residents?

Yes — here’s why.

A Fully Digital Marriage System

In 2019, Utah County launched the nation’s first completely online marriage platform. This system 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 do not need to reside in Utah to use this platform.

Nationwide Recognition

Marriages legally conducted in Utah are recognized across all 50 states, including Pennsylvania.

This is the legal foundation that Distant Weddings uses to provide online marriage services.

Traditional Pennsylvania Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

If you prefer a conventional in-person wedding in Pennsylvania, here’s what you’ll typically need:

ID Requirements

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

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

(Some counties may require a birth certificate.)

Additional Details Needed

Counties may also ask for:

• Legal names, birth dates, and birthplaces
  
• Parents’ names and birthplaces
  
• Information about previous marriages
  
• Intended post-marriage name (optional)

License Validity

A Pennsylvania marriage license is valid for 60 days.

Witness & Ceremony Requirements

• At least two witnesses are usually required for the ceremony
  
• The ceremony must take place within Pennsylvania
  
• Fees, procedures, and appointments vary by county

Many couples opt for the faster, simpler online marriage route instead.

Online Marriage License vs. Online Marriage Ceremony

Online Marriage License

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

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

Full Online Marriage Ceremony (Distant Weddings)

With Distant Weddings, Pennsylvania couples can:

✔ Get a digital marriage license
✔ Complete the ceremony entirely online
✔ Connect with a licensed officiant virtually
✔ Skip any in-person attendance
✔ Receive an official U.S. marriage certificate

This makes the process fast, convenient, and fully remote.

Why Pennsylvania Couples Choose Online Marriage

Feature	Traditional Pennsylvania Marriage	Online Marriage with Distant Weddings
Apply for license online	❌ Usually no	✅ 100% online
In-person visit required	✅ Yes	❌ No
Ceremony location	Must be in Pennsylvania	Anywhere with internet
Witnesses required	Yes	Provided if needed
Speed	Days–weeks	24–48 hours
Paperwork	Manual	Fully digital
Legal recognition in Pennsylvania	Yes	Yes, nationwide

How to Get Married Online in Pennsylvania With Distant Weddings

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

1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account

Sign up in minutes and start the process immediately.

2. Select Your Ceremony Style & Date

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

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

3. Complete Secure ID Verification

Licensing is handled digitally:

✔ No paperwork
✔ No county visits
✔ Quick, secure verification

4. Enjoy Your Online Wedding Ceremony

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

Ceremonies typically last around 15 minutes, and friends and family can join virtually.

5. Receive Your Legal U.S. Marriage Certificate

You’ll get:

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

Your marriage is legally recognized across the United States, including Pennsylvania.

Using Your Marriage Certificate Internationally (Apostille)

If one spouse lives outside the U.S. or you plan to use your marriage certificate internationally, an Apostille may be required to ensure official recognition.

Distant Weddings provides guidance to help complete this process easily.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in Pennsylvania

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

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

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

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, which Distant Weddings can assist with.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in Pennsylvania

For couples who want a simple, stress-free, and legally recognized wedding, Distant Weddings is the easiest option. Complete your application, ceremony, and marriage certificate fully online — no county visits required.

Focus on your love and celebration, rather than paperwork and logistics.