How to Get Married Online in Ohio (Step-by-Step Guide)

Getting married is one of life's most cherished milestones, and Ohio offers a unique blend of picturesque landscapes and modern conveniences to make your special day unforgettable. Whether you're looking to tie the knot in an enchanting forest or prefer the ease and flexibility of an online ceremony, Ohio has it all. 

Imagine exchanging vows at the stunning Hocking Hills State Park, where breathtaking waterfalls and lush forests set a romantic backdrop. For a touch of history, consider the grandeur of the Ohio Statehouse with its magnificent architecture. If you dream of a serene lakeside wedding, the shores of Lake Erie provide a tranquil setting that feels like a fairytale.

But for those who prefer the convenience and modernity of an online wedding, Ohio makes it possible to say "I do" from the comfort of your home or any location with internet access. Picture having your ceremony on a remote hilltop in the Appalachian foothills, with a beautiful view that stretches for miles, or even in a cozy cabin in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, surrounded by the vibrant colors of autumn leaves. 

With online weddings, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. This guide will walk you through the steps to get married online in Ohio, ensuring your day is as smooth and memorable as possible.

In-Person Wedding Requirements in Ohio

Getting married in Ohio involves specific steps to ensure your marriage will be legally recognized.

First, you must apply for a marriage license at any Ohio county probate court. Both applicants need to appear in person. 

• Bring valid photo identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) and proof of residency.
• Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Those aged 16 or 17 need parental consent and court approval.
• Fees vary by county but typically range from $40 to $75.

Once you receive your marriage license, there is no waiting period in Ohio. You can get married immediately after the license is issued. Next is to find an officiant. Your ceremony must be performed by an officiant who is legally recognized by the state of Ohio. This can include religious clergy, judges, or any licensed officiant.

While witnesses are not required to sign the marriage certificate in Ohio, having at least two witnesses is customary and often requested by officiants. After the ceremony, your officiant must return the signed marriage license to the probate court where it was issued to be officially recorded. You will then receive a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

Applying for an Ohio Marriage License Online

Applying for a marriage license in Ohio is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure everything is completed correctly.

1. Determine Eligibility: At least one of the applicants must be a resident of the county where you're applying. If both applicants are from out of state but are getting married in Ohio, you must apply in the county where the ceremony will take place.
2. Prepare Necessary Documents: some text
   • Proof of Age: Accepted forms include a birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport.
   • Proof of Residency: Utility bills or lease agreements can serve as proof of address.
   • Previous Marriages: If applicable, provide a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse.
3. Complete the Online Application: Visit the probate court’s website of the county where you are applying. Many counties, like Franklin and Miami, offer an online application form to streamline the process.
4. Schedule an Appointment: After submitting the online application, schedule an appointment to appear in person at the probate court. This step is necessary to verify your documents and complete the process.
5. Pay the Fee: Marriage license fees in Ohio typically range from $40 to $75, depending on the county. Be prepared to pay this fee during your appointment.
6. Receive Your License: Once the application is processed, you will receive your marriage license. There is no waiting period, so you can use it immediately. The license is valid for 60 days anywhere in Ohio.

Online License vs. Online Marriage

The processes of obtaining an online marriage license and having an online marriage are distinct. An online marriage license is a document that gives couples legal permission to marry. Some states allow this license to be acquired through an online application, which streamlines the process. However, despite obtaining an online marriage license, the actual ceremony must still take place in person, following the respective state's guidelines.

In contrast, an online marriage, such as those arranged through Courtly, permits the entire process to be completed online. This means both the legal paperwork and the ceremony can be done virtually, providing a modern and convenient alternative to the traditional in-person wedding.

Courtly: Simplifying the Online Marriage Process in Ohio

Courtly provides a seamless and efficient solution for couples looking to marry online. By handling the entire process remotely, Courtly eliminates the need for extensive paperwork, making it easier to obtain a valid U.S. marriage certificate.

Step-by-Step Guide for Getting Married Online in Ohio with Courtly

1. Create an Account

Start by setting up an account on Courtly. Click the "Get Married" icon in the top right corner of the website and follow the registration steps. Once your account is created, you will have full access to the Courtly platform.

2. Select Ceremony Details

Choose the format, setting, and style of your ceremony according to your preferences. Courtly will match you with a legally qualified U.S. officiant based on your chosen date and time.

3. Confirmation and Payment

After selecting your wedding package, proceed to payment. Once the payment is processed, you will receive an email confirmation from Courtly, finalizing your wedding plans.

4. Celebrate Your Online Marriage

Invite your friends and family to join your online wedding ceremony. You can hold the ceremony from any location with a stable internet connection, and it typically lasts about 15 minutes.

After the ceremony, you will receive a digital copy of your U.S. marriage certificate. Courtly will also send a printed copy within 1 to 2 weeks. Additionally, you can download your digital marriage license within 24 hours of the ceremony.

The Legality of Online Marriages in Ohio

Before the pandemic, many jurisdictions enforced strict laws requiring both the officiant and the couple to be physically present for a marriage to be legally recognized. Additionally, couples had to visit the county clerk's office in person to obtain a marriage license. However, in 2019, Utah County's marriage license office and IT departments collaborated to develop an innovative, fully digital marriage license application system. This system effectively eliminated the need for couples to visit the office in person to obtain and return their marriage licenses.

A significant aspect of Utah's online marriage process is its availability to everyone, regardless of residency. Marriages legally performed in one state are generally recognized throughout the United States, provided they comply with both state and federal laws. Consequently, couples who legally marry online through Utah's system will have their marriage recognized by other states as well.

The Legality of Online Marriages Outside the US

To ensure your wedding is recognized internationally, you may need an Apostille certification. An Apostille is a unique certificate that verifies your marriage license's validity and legal authenticity in all countries that have ratified The Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. This certification ensures your marriage document is internationally valid and easily verifiable.

While U.S. court officials can legally conduct ceremonies online, other countries might not recognize them, particularly if your spouse is from a different country. In such cases, additional steps may be required to comply with that country's specific regulations.

Obtaining an Apostille certification can help address these issues, ensuring your marriage license is accepted abroad. Before using your marriage certificate internationally, it's essential to research and consult the relevant authorities or embassies to understand their specific recognition requirements.

Conclusion

In this guide, we've covered the legal requirements for both in-person and online marriage applications in Ohio, discussed the flexibility and benefits of using platforms like Courtly, and outlined the step-by-step process to get married online.

By prioritizing clear communication with your chosen platform and meticulously planning your legal ceremony, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. This guide simplifies the online marriage journey in Ohio, allowing couples to begin their new life together with confidence and ease.

FAQs

Is online marriage legal in Ohio?

Yes, online marriages are legal in Ohio when facilitated through Utah's virtual marriage license system and platforms like Courtly.

Can I use this marriage certificate to change my name after marriage?

Yes, your marriage certificate can be used to change your name. If you’re in the US, you may also consider using a Courtly Name Change Kit to quicken the process. Each kit contains essential documents and instructions for changing your name after marriage.

‍Can non-residents apply for an Ohio marriage license online?

Non-residents must apply for a marriage license in the county where the wedding will take place if they are getting married in Ohio. Their county may or may not have an online application.

Is there a waiting period after applying?

No, Ohio does not have a waiting period after you apply for a marriage license.

How long is the marriage license valid?

The marriage license in Ohio is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.

‍What to do if you need to make changes to the application?

If you need to make changes to your marriage license application, you should contact the probate court in the county where you applied for specific instructions.