Streamline Your Marriage License Process with Our Guides
Hey there! We’re here to simplify your life by simplifying the process of getting your Florida marriage license. Our goal is to present you with all of the relevant information. You need to get your license quickly and without hassle. Therefore, take it easy, put your feet up, and allow us to take care of everything for you! We will walk you through the all process from start to finish. Starting with the first step, from what you need to know to what you need to bring, we’ll even help you figure out where to go and when.
Planning to get married in Florida? Here’s a simplified guide to obtaining a marriage license in the Sunshine State. This breakdown includes eligibility requirements, application steps, deadlines, and useful tips to smooth the process. Whether you’re a resident or organizing a destination wedding, use this guide to start your path to “I do.” Let’s make the first step toward your special day as easy as possible.
Here are the key details about obtaining a marriage license in Florida:
Requirements
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old (17-year-olds can marry with parental consent and other restrictions).
- Both parties must apply in person together.
- Valid government-issued photo ID required (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
- Social Security numbers must be provided.
- No blood tests or medical exams are required.
- No residency requirement – you don’t need to be a Florida resident.
Process
- Complete the marriage license application online or in person at a county clerk’s office.
- Both parties must appear together at the clerk’s office to finalize the application.
- Pay the license fee (typically $86, reduced to $61 with completion of a premarital preparation course).
- There is a 3-day waiting period for Florida residents, unless waived by completing a premarital course.
- No waiting period for non-Florida residents.
- License is valid for 60 days after issuance.
Other Key Points
- The license can be used for a ceremony anywhere in Florida, regardless of which county issued it.
- The ceremony must be performed by an authorized officiant (clergy, judge, notary public, etc.).
- The completed license must be returned to the clerk’s office within 10 days after the ceremony.
- Premarital preparation courses can waive the waiting period and reduce the license fee.
Be sure to check with the specific county clerk’s office where you plan to apply, as some details may vary slightly by county. Completing the online application in advance can help expedite the in-person process.
difference between counties
While the basic requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Florida are set by state law, there can be some minor differences in procedures and fees between counties:
Validity across Florida: A marriage license issued by any Florida county is valid for a ceremony performed anywhere in the state.
Application process: Most counties require couples to apply in person together at the county clerk’s office, though some may offer online pre-applications.
Fees: The standard fee is typically $86 in most counties, reducible to $61 with the completion of a premarital preparation course. However, exact fees may vary slightly by county.
Waiting period: There’s generally a 3-day waiting period for Florida residents, which can be waived with the completion of a premarital course. Non-residents have no waiting period.
Required documents: All counties require valid government-issued photo ID and social security numbers. Some may have additional requirements.
Validity period: Marriage licenses are typically valid for 60 days after issuance across all counties.
Premarital courses: All counties offer a fee reduction and waiting period waiver for completing a premarital course, but approved providers may vary by county.
Office hours and locations: These can vary between counties, so it’s best to check with the specific county clerk’s office for accurate details.
Here is a table comparing marriage license details for the 10 largest counties in Florida by population
| County | License Fee | Fee with Premarital Course | Online Application | Waiting Period | Ceremony at Clerk’s Office |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miami-Dade | $93.50 | $61.00 | Yes (pre-application) | 3 days* | Yes ($30) |
| Broward | $86.00 | $61.00 | Not specified | 3 days* | Not specified |
| Hillsborough | Not specified | Not specified | Yes (pre-application) | 3 days* | Not specified |
| Palm Beach | $86.00 | $61.00 | Not specified | 3 days* | Not specified |
| Orange | $86.00 | $61.00 | Yes | 3 days* | Not specified |
| Duval | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | 3 days* | Not specified |
| Pinellas | Not specified | Reduced fee | Yes | 3 days* | Yes ($30) |
| Lee | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | 3 days* | Not specified |
| Polk | Not specified | Reduced fee | Yes (pre-application) | 3 days* | Yes |
| Brevard | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | 3 days* | Not specified |
*The 3-day waiting period applies to Florida residents and can be waived with the completion of a premarital preparation course. Non-Florida residents typically have no waiting period.