Pinellas County Florida Marriage Licenses
Obtaining a marriage license in Pinellas County, Florida involves specific legal requirements and age restrictions. Here’s what couples need to know about the process:
Legal Requirements for Marriage in Pinellas County
Both parties must appear in person at the Clerk’s office to obtain a marriage license in Pinellas County. The application process includes:
- Completing the application form
- Providing Social Security numbers
- Presenting proof of age
- Signing a statement verifying they’ve read or accessed Florida’s Family Law Handbook
Non-U.S. citizens must provide alien registration or other proof with an alien registration number. Previously married applicants must provide the legal termination date of their last marriage.
Age Restrictions and Parental Consent
Pinellas County enforces strict age requirements for marriage license applicants:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old
- No parental consent is required for those 18 and older
- Phone: (727) 464-7000
- Address: 315 Court St, Clearwater, FL 33756
- Website: www.mypinellasclerk.org
Applying for a Marriage License in Pinellas County
Obtaining a marriage license in Pinellas County, Florida, involves a specific process and requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the application process, required documentation, and associated fees.
Required Documentation
To apply for a marriage license in Pinellas County, you’ll need:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Social Security numbers for both applicants
- Completed online EMarriage Application
- Proof of age (both applicants must be at least 18 years old)
- For 17-year-olds: Written consent from parents or legal guardians
- For previously married applicants: Date of divorce, annulment, or spouse’s death
Both parties must appear in person at the Clerk’s office to finalize the application and receive the marriage license.
Fees and Payment Methods
The marriage license fee in Pinellas County is:
| Type of Applicant | Fee |
|---|---|
| Florida Residents with Premarital Course | $61 |
| Florida Residents without Premarital Course | $86 |
| Non-Florida Residents | $86 |
Payment methods accepted include cash, credit card, or money order. The Clerk’s office doesn’t accept personal checks.
To apply for a marriage license or get more information, visit one of these locations:
- Clearwater Courthouse: 315 Court St., Room 150, Clearwater, FL 33756
- St. Petersburg Branch: 545 First Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- North County Branch: 29582 U.S. 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33761
For questions or assistance, call the Clerk’s office at (727) 464-7000.
The Application Process
The application process for a marriage license in Pinellas County, Florida, involves both online and in-person steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
Online Application Options
The first step in obtaining a marriage license is completing the online EMarriage Application. This convenient option allows couples to:
- Fill out the form at their leisure from home
- Use public terminals available at Clerk’s office locations offering marriage services
- Submit the application to the Clerk’s Marriage Application Queue
- Access their application for up to 30 days after submission
It’s important to note that completing this online application is mandatory before proceeding with the in-person portion of the process.
In-Person Application Procedures
After submitting the online application, couples must appear in person at one of the Clerk’s office locations within 30 days. The in-person visit includes:
- Presenting required documentation (valid government-issued photo ID, proof of age, etc.)
- Verifying information provided in the online application
- Signing necessary paperwork
- Paying the applicable fees
Couples can visit any of the following locations for their in-person application:
- Clearwater Courthouse
315 Court St, Room 150
Clearwater, FL 33756
Phone: (727) 464-7000 - St. Petersburg Branch
545 First Ave N
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: (727) 464-7000 - North County Branch
29582 U.S. 19 N
Clearwater, FL 33761
Phone: (727) 464-7000
It’s advisable to call ahead or check the Clerk’s website for current operating hours and any special instructions before visiting.
Waiting Periods and Expiration Dates
Pinellas County, Florida has specific regulations regarding waiting periods and expiration dates for marriage licenses. These rules vary depending on residency status and completion of premarital preparation courses.
Mandatory Waiting Period for Florida Residents
Florida residents face a 3-day waiting period between purchasing a marriage license and its effective date. This waiting period applies when at least one party is a Florida resident. However, couples can waive this waiting period by completing a premarital preparation course and presenting the certificate of completion to the Clerk.
Non-Florida residents aren’t subject to the 3-day waiting period, allowing them to use their marriage license immediately after purchase.
License Validity and Expiration
Marriage licenses issued in Pinellas County remain valid for 60 days from the issue date. Couples must conduct their ceremony between the effective date and the expiration date listed on the license. If a license expires, couples must apply for a new one.
- Clearwater Courthouse: 315 Court St., Room 150, Clearwater, FL 33756. Phone: (727) 464-7000
- St. Petersburg Branch: 545 First Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Phone: (727) 464-7000
- North County Branch: 29582 U.S. 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33761. Phone: (727) 464-7000
Special Circumstances for Marriage Licenses
Pinellas County recognizes various special circumstances when applying for marriage licenses. These exceptions accommodate out-of-state applicants and military personnel, ensuring a smooth process for those in unique situations.
Out-of-State Applicants
Out-of-state applicants follow the same general requirements as Florida residents when applying for a marriage license in Pinellas County. They must appear in person at the Clerk’s office, provide valid identification, and complete the necessary paperwork. However, non-Florida residents aren’t subject to the 3-day waiting period that applies to state residents. This allows couples planning destination weddings in Pinellas County to obtain their license more quickly.
Military Personnel Considerations
Pinellas County offers accommodations for military personnel seeking marriage licenses. Active duty service members may present their military ID as proof of identification. In cases where one party can’t appear in person due to deployment, the absent party can complete an Affidavit of Absent Applicant for Marriage License. This form must be notarized and submitted along with a copy of their military ID. For specific questions related to military considerations, contact the Pinellas County Clerk’s office at (727) 464-7000.
- Clearwater Courthouse: 315 Court St., Room 150, Clearwater, FL 33756
- St. Petersburg Branch: 545 First Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- North County Branch: 29582 U.S. 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33761
Ceremony and Officiant Requirements
A marriage ceremony in Pinellas County must be performed between the effective date and expiration date listed on the marriage license. The license is valid for 60 days from the issue date, giving couples ample time to plan their ceremony.
Authorized Officiants in Pinellas County
In Pinellas County, various authorized officiants can perform marriage ceremonies. These include:
- Judges
- Clergy members
- Notaries public
- Deputy Clerks of the Pinellas County Clerk’s office
Deputy Clerks offer marriage ceremony services for a $30.00 fee. No appointment is necessary, provided the license’s effective date is valid.
Marriage Certificate Filing
After the ceremony, the officiant must complete and sign the marriage license. The couple is responsible for returning the signed license to the Clerk’s office within 10 days of the ceremony. The Clerk’s office will then record and file the marriage certificate.
For more information or assistance with marriage certificate filing, contact:
Pinellas County Clerk’s Office
315 Court St, Clearwater, FL 33756
Phone: (727) 464-7000
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Pinellas County Florida is a significant step towards tying the knot. I’ve outlined the key requirements processes and special considerations to help couples navigate this important process smoothly.
Remember to gather all necessary documents complete the online application and visit the Clerk’s office in person to finalize your marriage license. With proper preparation you’ll be well on your way to celebrating your special day.
For any additional questions or unique circumstances don’t hesitate to contact the Pinellas County Clerk’s office. They’re there to assist you in making your journey to marriage as seamless as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Pinellas County?
Both parties must appear in person at the Clerk’s office, complete an application form, provide Social Security numbers, present proof of age, and sign a statement regarding Florida’s Family Law Handbook. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of alien registration, and previously married applicants must disclose their last marriage’s termination date.
What documents do I need to bring when applying for a marriage license?
You’ll need a valid government-issued photo ID, Social Security numbers, a completed online EMarriage Application, and proof of age. If you’re 17, bring written consent from parents or legal guardians. Previously married individuals must provide the date of divorce, annulment, or spouse’s death.
How much does a marriage license cost in Pinellas County?
The cost varies: $61 for Florida residents who completed a premarital course, $86 for Florida residents without the course, and $86 for non-Florida residents. Accepted payment methods include cash, credit card, or money order. Personal checks are not accepted.
Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in Pinellas County?
Yes, for Florida residents there’s a mandatory 3-day waiting period between purchasing a license and its effective date. This can be waived by completing a premarital preparation course. Non-Florida residents don’t have a waiting period.
How long is a marriage license valid in Pinellas County?
Marriage licenses issued in Pinellas County are valid for 60 days from the issue date. Couples must conduct their ceremony within this timeframe to avoid needing to apply for a new license.
Are there special provisions for out-of-state applicants or military personnel?
Out-of-state applicants follow the same general requirements but aren’t subject to the 3-day waiting period. Military personnel can use their military ID for identification. If one party can’t appear due to deployment, they can submit a notarized Affidavit of Absent Applicant for Marriage License.
Who can officiate a marriage ceremony in Pinellas County?
Authorized officiants include judges, clergy members, notaries public, and Deputy Clerks of the Clerk’s office. Deputy Clerks can perform ceremonies for a $30 fee without an appointment.
What needs to be done after the marriage ceremony?
The officiant must complete and sign the marriage license. The couple is responsible for returning it to the Clerk’s office within 10 days for the marriage certificate to be recorded and filed.