What Is a Marriage License in Hillsborough County, Florida?
A marriage license in Hillsborough County, Florida, is a legal document that authorizes couples to get married within the state. It’s issued by the Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court, acting as an agent for the State of Florida in accordance with Florida Statute 741.
The license serves as official permission for the couple to proceed with their wedding ceremony. Here are key points about marriage licenses in Hillsborough County:
- Issuance: The Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court issues the license.
- Application: Both individuals must apply in person at the clerk’s office.
- Fee: $86.00 for the standard license, reducible to $61.00 with an approved premarital course.
- Waiting Period: A 3-day waiting period applies, waivable with completion of a premarital course.
To obtain a marriage license or get more information, contact:
Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court
419 N. Pierce St., Room 140
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 276-8100 ext. 4806
Additional locations:
- Brandon: 311 Pauls Drive, Suite 110, Brandon, FL 33511
- Plant City: 301 N. Michigan Avenue, Plant City, FL 33563
- SouthShore: 410 30th St. SE, Ruskin, FL 33570
For the most up-to-date information on hours and services, visit the official Hillsborough County Clerk’s website or call the main office.
Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License
To obtain a marriage license in Hillsborough County, Florida, couples must meet specific requirements. Here’s what you need to know about age, identification, residency, citizenship, and previous marriages:
Age and Identification
Both parties must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in Hillsborough County. When applying, each person must present a valid form of identification. Acceptable forms include:
- Driver’s license
- State identification card
- Valid passport
These documents prove age and identity, which are crucial for the application process.
Residency and Citizenship
There’s no residency requirement for obtaining a marriage license in Hillsborough County or anywhere else in Florida. You’re free to get married in any Florida county, regardless of where the license was issued. While citizenship isn’t a requirement, valid identification remains essential for all applicants.
Previous Marriages
If either party has been married before, they must provide specific information about their previous marriage(s):
- Start and end dates of the previous marriage
- How the marriage ended (divorce or death)
This information is necessary to complete the marriage license application form accurately.
- Address: 419 Pierce Street, Tampa, FL 33602
- Phone: (813) 276-8100
- Website: www.hillsclerk.com
How to Apply for a Hillsborough County Florida Marriage License
Applying for a marriage license in Hillsborough County, Florida, is a straightforward process with multiple options available. Couples can choose between online and in-person applications, depending on their preferences and circumstances.
Online Application Process
The Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court now offers an online marriage license issuance process via Zoom appointments. Here’s how to apply online:
- Schedule a Zoom appointment through the Clerk’s online marriage licensing page.
- Prepare necessary documentation and information for the Zoom meeting.
- Attend the scheduled Zoom appointment.
- After the appointment, pick up the issued license at one of the Clerk’s offices or have it mailed to you.
This convenient option allows couples to complete most of the process from the comfort of their homes.
In-Person Application Options
For those who prefer or need to apply in person, Hillsborough County provides multiple locations and flexible hours:
- Locations:
- Downtown Tampa
- Brandon
- Plant City
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
To apply in person, visit one of the Clerk of the Circuit Court offices during business hours. Be sure to bring all required documentation and identification.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Hillsborough County Clerk’s office:
- Address: 419 Pierce Street, Tampa, FL 33602
- Phone: (813) 276-8100
- Website: www.hillsclerk.com
Choosing between online and in-person applications depends on individual circumstances and preferences. Both options ensure couples can obtain their marriage license efficiently and start their journey towards marriage in Hillsborough County, Florida.
Fees and Payment Methods
The Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court offers straightforward fees and diverse payment options for marriage licenses. I’ll outline the costs and accepted payment methods to help you plan accordingly.
Fees
- Standard marriage license fee: $86.00
- Reduced fee with approved premarital course: $61.00
The standard fee covers both state and county charges. Couples who complete an approved premarital course benefit from a $25 discount.
Payment Methods
The clerk’s office accepts a wide range of payment options:
- Cash
- Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
- Debit cards
- Money orders
- Personal checks
- Traveler’s checks
This variety of payment methods ensures convenience for all applicants, whether they prefer electronic transactions or traditional payment forms.
- Address: 419 Pierce Street, Tampa, FL 33602
- Phone: (813) 276-8100
- Website: www.hillsclerk.com
Waiting Periods and Expiration
Hillsborough County’s marriage license process includes specific waiting periods and expiration timelines. I’ll outline these important details to help couples plan their weddings effectively.
Waiting Period
A 3-day waiting period applies after the marriage license is issued. During this time, couples can’t legally perform their marriage ceremony. However, there’s an option to waive this waiting period by completing an approved premarital course.
Expiration
The marriage license remains valid for 60 days from the issue date. Couples must use the license within this timeframe to avoid expiration. If the license expires, couples need to reapply and pay the fees again.
Return of License
After the marriage ceremony, couples have 10 days to return the completed license to the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. This step finalizes the marriage record.
- Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court
- Address: 419 Pierce Street, Tampa, FL 33602
- Phone: (813) 276-8100
- Website: www.hillsclerk.com
Same-Sex Marriage Licenses in Hillsborough County
Same-sex couples in Hillsborough County, Florida follow the same process for obtaining a marriage license as heterosexual couples. The Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court treats all couples equally, regardless of sexual orientation.
Key points for same-sex couples seeking a marriage license in Hillsborough County:
- Both individuals must appear in person at one of the Clerk’s office locations
- Standard identification and documentation requirements apply
- The fee structure is identical: $86.00 for a standard license, reducible to $61.00 with a premarital course
- The 3-day waiting period and 60-day validity period apply to all couples
Locations to obtain a marriage license:
- Tampa Office:
419 Pierce Street, Room 140
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 276-8100 x3800 - Brandon Office:
301 N. Michigan Avenue
Plant City, FL 33563
Phone: (813) 757-3918 - Plant City Office:
301 N. Michigan Avenue
Plant City, FL 33563
Phone: (813) 757-3918
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the official Hillsborough County Clerk’s website at www.hillsclerk.com or call (813) 276-8100.
Using Your Marriage License
Once you’ve obtained your marriage license in Hillsborough County, Florida, there are specific guidelines for its use. The license is valid for 60 days from the issue date, giving you ample time to plan your ceremony.
Officiant Requirements
In Hillsborough County, various individuals can officiate your marriage ceremony. These include:
- Ordained ministers
- Judges
- Notaries public
- Clerks of the circuit court
The officiant must be authorized to perform marriages in Florida. They’re responsible for completing the appropriate sections of the marriage license and returning it to the Clerk’s office after the ceremony.
Filing the License After the Ceremony
After your wedding, it’s crucial to file your completed marriage license promptly. Here are the key points to remember:
- Return the signed license to the Clerk’s office within 10 days of the ceremony
- The officiant typically handles this task, but it’s your responsibility to ensure it’s done
- You can file the license at any of the Hillsborough County Clerk’s office locations:
- Downtown Tampa: 419 Pierce Street, Tampa, FL 33602
- Brandon: 311 Pauls Drive, Suite 110, Brandon, FL 33511
- Plant City: 301 N. Michigan Avenue, Plant City, FL 33563
For any questions about filing your marriage license, contact the Hillsborough County Clerk’s office at (813) 276-8100 or visit their website at www.hillsclerk.com.
Obtaining Copies of Your Marriage License
I can provide you with information on how to obtain copies of your marriage license in Hillsborough County, Florida. The process is straightforward and can be completed in person or online.
To request a copy of your marriage license, you have several options:
- Visit in person: You can go to any of the following Clerk’s office locations:
- Downtown Tampa: 419 Pierce Street, Tampa, FL 33602
- Brandon: 311 Pauls Drive, Suite 110, Brandon, FL 33511
- Plant City: 301 N. Michigan Avenue, Plant City, FL 33563
- Order online: Visit the official Hillsborough County Clerk’s website at www.hillsclerk.com to request a copy of your marriage license.
- Phone request: Call the Clerk’s office at (813) 276-8100 to inquire about ordering a copy by phone.
When requesting a copy of your marriage license, you’ll need to provide:
- Full names of both parties on the marriage license
- Date of marriage
- Purpose for requesting the copy
The fee for obtaining a certified copy of your marriage license varies depending on the number of copies requested. It’s best to check the current fees on the Clerk’s website or by calling the office directly.
Remember, marriage licenses in Hillsborough County are valid for 60 days from the issue date. After your ceremony, the officiant must return the completed license to the clerk’s office within 10 days for it to be recorded and made official.
For any additional questions or concerns about obtaining copies of your marriage license, don’t hesitate to contact the Hillsborough County Clerk’s office directly using the provided phone number or by visiting their website.
Conclusion
Getting married in Hillsborough County Florida is a straightforward process with clear guidelines. I’ve covered the essential steps from eligibility requirements to obtaining copies of your license. Whether you’re a local couple or planning a destination wedding this guide provides valuable insights into the legal aspects of tying the knot in Tampa Bay. Remember to plan ahead consider the premarital course option and ensure all documentation is in order. With this information you’re well-equipped to navigate the marriage license process and focus on celebrating your special day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic requirements to get a marriage license in Hillsborough County?
Both parties must be at least 18 years old and present valid identification such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. There’s no residency requirement, and citizenship isn’t necessary. If previously married, details about prior marriages are required. Both individuals must apply in person, and the standard fee is $86.00, which can be reduced to $61.00 with completion of an approved premarital course.
How can couples apply for a marriage license in Hillsborough County?
Couples can apply online through Zoom appointments or in person at multiple locations including Downtown Tampa, Brandon, and Plant City. Online applicants can schedule a meeting, prepare documentation, and either pick up the license or have it mailed. In-person applications are available Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Both methods require the presence of both parties and necessary documentation.
What documents are needed to apply for a marriage license?
Applicants need to provide valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. If previously married, information about prior marriages including start and end dates and how they ended is required. Social Security numbers are also typically requested. Both parties must present these documents when applying, whether online or in person.
How long is the waiting period for a marriage license in Hillsborough County?
There is a 3-day waiting period after the license is issued, during which couples cannot legally perform their marriage ceremony. However, this waiting period can be waived if the couple completes an approved premarital course. The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the issue date, and couples must use it within this timeframe to avoid expiration.
Can same-sex couples obtain a marriage license in Hillsborough County?
Yes, same-sex couples in Hillsborough County follow the same process for obtaining a marriage license as heterosexual couples. They are subject to the same requirements regarding identification, documentation, and fees. The application process, waiting periods, and validity of the license are identical for all couples regardless of sexual orientation.
Who can officiate a marriage ceremony in Hillsborough County?
Various individuals authorized to perform marriages in Florida can officiate ceremonies in Hillsborough County. This includes ordained ministers, judges, notaries public, and clerks of the circuit court. It’s important to ensure that the officiant is legally authorized to perform marriages in the state of Florida before proceeding with the ceremony.
How do couples obtain copies of their marriage license after the ceremony?
Couples can request copies of their marriage license in person at various Clerk’s office locations, order online through the official Hillsborough County Clerk’s website, or make a phone request. When requesting a copy, provide the full names of both parties, the date of marriage, and the purpose for the request. Fees for certified copies vary based on the number of copies requested.