How to get married online in Colorado (Step-by-Step Guide)

Colorado is known for its breathtaking landscapes, making it one of the most enchanting states for exchanging vows. The majestic mountains and captivating vistas provide an idyllic backdrop for couples to start their journey together. However, it's crucial for couples to be aware that Colorado has specific laws regarding weddings within the state, especially for those interested in getting married online.

Couples can get married online with special laws, which is convenient for those who can't have a regular ceremony. If you are considering an online marriage and civil union in Colorado, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process.

The legality of online marriages in Colorado

Before the pandemic, marriage laws in some states required the couple and the person marrying them to be there in person for the marriage to be legal. Couples were also required to visit the county clerk's office in person to obtain a marriage license.

In 2019, the Utah County marriage license office and information technology departments worked together. They created a fully digital marriage license process. This innovative system eliminated the need for couples to physically visit the office to obtain and return their marriage license.

One significant aspect of Utah's online marriage procedure is that it is open to anyone, regardless of residency. Marriages performed legally in one state are generally recognized across the United States. They must comply with federal and state laws. This means that if a couple legally married online through Utah's system, their marriage will be recognized in other states as well.

What about in-person wedding requirements in Colorado?

Until 2019, couples had no choice but to follow the traditional requirements for an in-person wedding in Colorado. To obtain a marriage license in Colorado, you would need to complete a basic form that includes personal details. The birthdays and addresses of both you and your spouse, as well as the names and places of birth of your parents should be written down. When you go to the county clerk's office, bring a valid picture ID with your birthdate. This can be a passport or driver's license. It's important to prove your age and identity.

If you have been previously divorced, there is additional information to provide on the application. You will need to specify the date of the divorce and the county and state where it was recorded. It may require some research to gather this information, so it is advisable to have these details ready when filling out the application.

How much is a typical marriage license in Colorado?

Marriage license fees in Colorado vary by county. The cost typically ranges from approximately $30 to $50. However, it is always best to check with the specific county clerk's office where you plan to apply for the license to get the most up-to-date information on fees and any requirements. You can find the contact information for the county clerk's office in the county where you plan to marry on the county's website or by searching online.

Obtaining a marriage license from Colorado without visiting in person

If you are only interested in getting your marriage license online, but still want to have an in-person wedding, you do have the ability to obtain a marriage license online in certain Colorado counties. 

In Boulder County, you can obtain a marriage license remotely through an online process. However, it is important to note that there are specific steps and requirements involved. Here is an overview of the steps for obtaining a marriage license in Boulder County:

1. Visit the county's website and complete the online marriage license application. It is important to note that the online application may not work on mobile devices, so it is recommended to use a desktop or laptop computer.
2. After submitting the online application, schedule an appointment for a video call with a staff member from the county. This video call is conducted to verify the identity of both parties. Appointments with Spanish-speaking staff members may also be available.
3. Prior to the scheduled appointment, download Microsoft Teams, a free application available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices. This application will be used for the video call.
4. Follow the link provided in the email confirmation of your appointment to join the video call. Both parties must be present in the same room during the call and have their identification documents and payment ready for verification.
5. After the video call appointment, the completed application and marriage license will be mailed to you via USPS. Upon receiving these documents, you must: (1) Fill in the last 4 digits of their Social Security Numbers, (2) Sign the application, (3) Complete the certificate portion of the license on your wedding day, (4) Use the provided pre-addressed envelope to return both the signed application and the completed license to the Recording office. You will need to include postage unless you choose to use the drop box in Boulder or Longmont.

It is important to note that the process outlined above is specific to Boulder County. Other counties in Colorado may have different requirements and procedures, which may include in-person visits to the county office. 

Distinguishing Online Marriage Licenses from Online Marriages

An online marriage license and an online marriage are two distinct processes. An online marriage license is just the document that grants legal permission for a couple to marry. Some states permit couples to apply and receive this license through an online application, streamlining the paperwork process. However, even with an online license, the actual wedding ceremony must still take place in person, following the state's regulations.

On the other hand, an online marriage, such as those facilitated by services like Courtly, allows the entire marriage process to be completed online. This means that both the legal paperwork and the wedding ceremony can be conducted virtually, providing a convenient and modern alternative to traditional in-person weddings.

Courtly provides a simple solution for couples who want an easier marriage process. Couples can enjoy the flexibility of completing the entire process remotely from any location, minimizing the need for extensive documentation. Through our streamlined approach, Courtly enables couples to obtain a valid US marriage certificate in a quick and hassle-free manner.

Step-by-step process of getting married online in Colorado with Courtly

Using Courtly, couples can conveniently complete the entire marriage process online from any location. With Courtly, acquiring a legitimate U.S. marriage certificate is quick, easy, and typically takes less than 48 hours, without the need for extensive documentation.

1. Create an Account

To get started, simply create an account with Courtly. Click on the "Get Married" icon located in the top right corner of the website and follow the on-screen instructions. Once your account is created, you will have access to the Courtly platform.

2. Choose Ceremony Format, Setting, and Officiant

Select the ceremony format, venue, and style that best suit your preferences. Depending on the date and time you choose, Courtly will match you with one of their legally qualified U.S. officiants.

3. Confirmation and Payment

After selecting your wedding package, proceed with the payment. Once the payment is complete, you will receive an email confirmation from Courtly, indicating that your wedding plans are in motion. For complete information on our available wedding packages and add-ons, please check our Pricing Page.

4. Celebrate Your Marriage Online

Gather your family and friends online to celebrate your marriage! You can tie the knot from the comfort of your own home or any location with a strong internet connection. The online ceremony typically takes around 15 minutes to complete.

After your online wedding, you will receive a digital copy of your U.S. marriage certificate immediately and Courtly will deliver a printed copy in 1 to 2 weeks. You can also download your digital marriage license within 24 hours after the ceremony.

Legal recognition of online marriage outside the United States

If you intend for your wedding to be certified and recognized in a country outside of the United States, it may be necessary to obtain an Apostille certification. The Apostille certification ensures that your marriage license is valid, officially legitimate, and acknowledged in all countries that have ratified the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. 

Virtual wedding ceremonies conducted by a Courtly officiant are legally valid in the United States. However, foreign countries or immigration authorities may not always recognize them, especially if your partner is from another country. So, it's important to study and follow the rules of the country where you want your marriage recognized. 

Consulting with legal professionals or authorities in the respective country can provide clarity and guidance on the necessary steps to ensure the validity and recognition of your marriage abroad.

Conclusion

Online marriage with Courtly is ideal for couples who value convenience, efficiency, and flexibility. Couples who wish to avoid the complexities and paperwork involved in traditional in-person marriages will find Courtly's online marriage process a convenient alternative. Additionally, Courtly's services are suitable for couples who want a valid U.S. marriage certificate quickly and with minimal documentation.

FAQ

What is Colorado’s Uniform Marriage Act?

Colorado follows the Uniform Marriage Act (C.R.S. 14-2-101, et seq) for marriage procedures, which may be familiar to those who have wed in other states:

• To get married, both people must fill out an online application and go to the county clerk's office. They must bring identification and pay a $30 fee for the license. If one person can't come, they can fill out Form M3 Absentee Affidavit for Marriage License. The absent party needs to give it and a copy of their ID to the other person to submit.
• You must solemnize a marriage within 30 days of obtaining the license, which is valid for that timeframe (C.R.S. 14-2-107). A judge, magistrate, minister, or one of the parties can officiate the ceremony. Additionally, authorized friends or family members can also solemnize the marriage. This means that a couple can marry themselves without a formal ceremony, officiant, or witnesses.
• To register the marriage, the officiant must fill out the marriage certificate form and submit it to the county clerk within 63 days of the ceremony. While a late filing does not invalidate the marriage, it may result in late fees.

Can your dog sign your marriage license in Colorado?

Yes. In Colorado, couples do not need an officiant or witness to get married. This is because Colorado has a self-solemnizing marriage law, which means couples can marry themselves. This also means that couples can have their dog as a witness at their elopement or wedding.

To have your dog as a witness at your wedding in Colorado, you will need to obtain a marriage license from your local county clerk's office. There is no waiting period for marriage licenses in Colorado, so you can get married on the same day. Once you have the license, you and your dog can sign it and file it with the county clerk's office within 63 days.