Yes, you can get married online — but not in the way most people imagine. There is no state that lets a couple exchange vows over Zoom and receive a legally binding marriage license with no human physically present in front of an officiant. What actually exists, and what most people mean when they search for military marriage online, is proxy marriage: a legal process where a stand-in represents one or both partners at the ceremony while every document, notarization, and application is completed online. Below, we break down how to get married online through this process, which states allow it, and what military couples need to know.
What Does It Mean to Get Married Online?
When people search "get married online," they're usually looking for a way to become legally married without traveling to be in the same place. For civilians, this is difficult, since most states require both parties to appear in person. For military couples separated by deployment, however, several states offer proxy marriage — a recognized path to get married online that solves exactly this problem.
How Military Marriage Online (Proxy Marriage) Works
A proxy marriage allows a designated stand-in to sign the marriage license on behalf of an absent party. There are two types:
- Single proxy marriage — one partner is present; a stand-in represents the absent partner.
- Double proxy marriage — neither partner is present; two separate stand-ins represent both parties.
Montana is the only state that permits double proxy marriage, making it the primary destination for couples who want a fully remote military marriage online. California, Colorado, Texas, and Kansas allow single proxy marriage under specific military-related circumstances.
Steps to Get Married Online as a Military Couple
- Confirm eligibility — one partner must be active-duty military or a Montana resident (for double proxy).
- Complete a marriage application and provide proof of identity and military status.
- Sign a notarized power of attorney designating your proxy, often through Remote Online Notarization (RON).
- Submit documents to the county clerk's office for review.
- The proxy ceremony is solemnized, and the marriage license is issued and mailed.
Most facilitators complete the entire military marriage online process within a few hours to a few days.
Why Military Couples Choose to Get Married Online
Getting married online through proxy marriage secures military benefits — housing allowance, healthcare, and next-of-kin status — without waiting for deployment to end. Couples can still plan a traditional ceremony later; the online process only handles the legal paperwork.
FAQ: Getting Married Online for Military Couples
Is it legal to get married online? Yes, through proxy marriage in specific states. It is not a video-call wedding — a licensed officiant and stand-in are legally required.
Which state is best for military marriage online? Montana, since it's the only state allowing double proxy marriage, meaning neither partner needs to be present.
Do I need to be stationed overseas to qualify? No. Active-duty status generally qualifies you regardless of location.
Will the marriage be recognized in other states? Yes, proxy marriages legally performed in one state are recognized nationwide and by the military.
How long does it take to get married online? Many double proxy services complete the process in as little as a few hours once documents are ready.