Preparing for marriage is an exciting time for couples, but many people don’t know about the paperwork involved. Tying the knot online provides a seamless, convenient experience, but you still have to go through a legal process in accordance with your state’s laws. If you’re getting married online, it’s also important to know the difference between a marriage license, a marriage certificate and certified copies.
A marriage license is a document you receive after applying for one. The officiant performing the legal marriage will sign the license and send it back to you afterward. Sometimes there are multiple copies of the license that the officiant signs and the couple gets to keep one as a “keepsake” copy.
A marriage certificate refers to the official paper document which shows proof of legal marriage according to the jurisdiction where it was issued. This can be a keepsake copy, but most often it is a separate document (most often a “certified copy”) that is printed and mailed by the jurisdiction after they receive the “solemnized” license back from the officiant following the ceremony.
Certified Copy of Marriage Certificate
A certified copy of a marriage certificate is a paper hard copy of the marriage certificate which has been printed by the jurisdiction after the marriage has been solemnized. It often contains a raised seal of some other marking, stamp, or signature by a government official.
Wedding Certificate Online
A wedding certificate is the same thing as a marriage certificate, but the accurate name is a marriage certificate. A wedding is a ceremony (and sometimes a party as well), but there’s no government-issued certificate for that.
All Online Marriage packages include at least one certified copy of your marriage certificate, which gets mailed to you after the service is complete. We can also help you order additional copies if you need them!
If you are already married and need to order a copy of your marriage certificate, you would order that from the jurisdiction where your legal marriage took place. Some jurisdictions allow you to order certified copies online, but most still require you to mail or fax a form to their office and pay with a credit card or money order.
Getting Married Online Legally
With our affordable, quick, and convenient Get Married Online package, you can tie the knot legally in four simple steps. These include:
- Book Your Marriage Date. We make this incredibly easy with our Online Marriage Scheduler. Simply choose a date and time that works for you both and you’ll be well on your way.
- Apply for Your Marriage License and Pay the Fee. We’ll send you instructions and a link so you can apply for and obtain your legal marriage license.
- Get Legally Married via Web Conference. Both parties should have a reliable internet connection and attend without the use of substitutes or proxies. If your state requires witnesses, they will cost $20 each.
- Receive Your Marriage License Certified Copies. You’ll receive your marriage license in a matter of weeks. Faster shipping (including an overnight option) is available at an additional cost.
Our Get Married Online package includes online marriage license assistance, an online legal signing service, and a certified copy of your online marriage certificate. However, if you would prefer a more formal experience, a full 10-minute ceremony is an option. For only $100 more, an officiant will perform a ceremony in accordance with your beliefs and specifications. If you are looking to invite guests and share the day with family members, we highly recommend this service.
If you are ready to get married, the entire process can be completed in 1-3 business days. We also recommend viewing our list of online marriage eligibility requirements. Our goal is to make marriage easy and accessible for all, but there are a few regulations we have to follow. We also encourage you to check with your local government to ensure online marriage is legal in your jurisdiction.
Should you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Submit this simple form or take advantage of our other contact options and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Where Can I Obtain a Marriage Certificate Online?
With online marriage, you can get married online legally and securely in a short amount of time. Our Get Married Online package allows couples to be legally married in the United States from anywhere in the world via web video conference, even if they aren’t in the same location. Our signature legal online marriage package offers the best options based on your unique circumstances and preferences. Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest! Get started by filling out this quick form or give us a call at (202)-810-2201.