Highlands County Marriage License Guide – Florida Marriage License

Overview of Florida Marriage Licenses

In Highlands County, Florida, obtaining a marriage license requires both parties to appear in person at the Clerk’s Office. The license is valid for 60 days from the issue date and must be returned within 10 days after the marriage ceremony.

Florida Marriage License Requirements

To obtain a marriage license in Highlands County:

Both parties must appear in person at the Clerk’s Office
Sign the application together
Present valid identification
Pay the required fee
The license is valid for 60 days from issuance
Return the license to the Clerk’s Office within 10 days after the ceremony

Knowing Florida Marriage Laws

Highlands County follows Florida marriage laws:

Legal age for marriage without parental consent: 18 years
With parental consent: 16 years
Under 16: Requires doctor’s certification of pregnancy, affidavit, parental consent, and possibly a hearing before the county judge
Same-sex marriages are legally recognized
No waiting period for Florida residents
Out-of-state couples can obtain a license in any Florida county

Highlands County Clerk of Courts
Address: 590 S Commerce Ave, Sebring, FL 33870
Phone: (863) 402-6565
Services: Issues marriage licenses, performs marriage ceremonies, and maintains marriage records.

Applying for a Marriage License

Applying for a marriage license in Highlands County, Florida, is a straightforward process. Both parties must appear in person at the Clerk’s Office to complete the application and sign necessary documents.

How to Apply for a Marriage License

To apply for a marriage license in Highlands County:

Visit the Highlands County Clerk’s Office at the Government Center, 590 S. Commerce Ave., second floor.
Use the eMarriage online pre-application to save time at the office.
Pay the required fee at the time of application.
Sign the application together in the presence of a clerk.

Documents Needed for a Florida Marriage License

When applying for a marriage license in Highlands County, you’ll need:

Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
Social Security numbers for both parties
Proof of any previous marriages and divorces, if applicable
Payment for the license fee

Note: Additional documents may be required for minors or non-U.S. citizens.

Florida Marriage License Application Process

The marriage license application process in Highlands County includes:

Completing the online pre-application through eMarriage
Appearing in person at the Clerk’s Office
Presenting required documents and identification
Signing the application in front of a clerk
Paying the license fee
Receiving your marriage license

Once issued, the license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.

Highlands County Clerk of Courts
Address: 590 S. Commerce Ave., 2nd Floor, Sebring, FL 33870
Phone: (863) 402-6564
Services: Issues marriage licenses, performs marriage ceremonies, and maintains marriage records.

Marriage License Details

Obtaining a marriage license in Highlands County, Florida requires both parties to appear in person at the Clerk’s Office. Here’s what you need to know about the process:

Marriage License Fees

Highlands County charges a fee for marriage licenses. The exact amount may vary, so it’s best to contact the Clerk’s Office directly for the most up-to-date information. Bring cash, credit card, or a money order to pay the fee. Remember, fees are subject to change, so confirm the amount before your visit.

Marriage License Validity

Your marriage license in Highlands County is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. Plan your wedding ceremony within this timeframe to ensure your license remains valid. If you don’t use the license within 60 days, you’ll need to reapply and pay the fee again.

Expedited Marriage License

Highlands County doesn’t offer an expedited marriage license service. All applications are processed in the order they’re received. To save time, complete the eMarriage online pre-application before visiting the Clerk’s Office. This streamlines the process and reduces your wait time at the office.

Highlands County Clerk of Courts
Address: 590 S. Commerce Ave., Sebring, FL 33870
Phone: (863) 402-6564
Services: Issues marriage licenses, performs marriage ceremonies, and maintains marriage records.

Special Considerations

Highlands County has specific requirements for marriage licenses that couples need to be aware of. These considerations ensure compliance with Florida state laws and local regulations.

Florida Marriage License for Same-Sex Couples

Same-sex couples can obtain a marriage license in Highlands County under the same conditions as opposite-sex couples. The process is identical, requiring both parties to appear in person at the Clerk’s Office, present valid identification, and provide their Social Security numbers. Same-sex marriages are fully recognized and treated equally under Florida law.

Florida Marriage License for Out-of-State Couples

Out-of-state couples can apply for a marriage license in Highlands County without being Florida residents. The requirements remain the same as for local couples, including personal appearance at the Clerk’s Office and proper identification. Non-U.S. citizens must provide additional documentation, such as a passport from their native country or an Immigration and Naturalization Services card.

Marriage License Renewal

Highlands County doesn’t offer marriage license renewals. Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days from the issue date. If your license expires before you get married, you’ll need to apply for a new license and pay the fee again. To avoid this, plan your wedding within the 60-day validity period or apply for your license closer to your wedding date.

Additional Resources

Here are additional resources to help you navigate the marriage license process in Highlands County, Florida. These resources provide essential information and services for couples planning to tie the knot.

Florida Marriage License Office Locations

Online Marriage License Application

Highlands County offers an eMarriage online pre-application service to streamline the process. Visit the Highlands County Clerk of Courts website to access the eMarriage portal. Complete the pre-application online to save time during your in-person visit. Remember, both parties must still appear in person at the Clerk’s Office to finalize the application and obtain the license.

Marriage License Hours of Operation

The Highlands County Clerk of Courts office is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays. Plan your visit during these hours to apply for your marriage license. It’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing time to ensure sufficient processing time. For the most up-to-date information on hours of operation, contact the office directly at (863) 402-6564.