What Is a Lee County Florida Marriage License?
A Lee County Florida marriage license is a legal document that authorizes couples to marry within the state of Florida. It’s an official permit issued by the Lee County Clerk of Court, granting permission for a couple to solemnize their union.
Key features of a Lee County Florida marriage license include:
- Valid only in Florida
- Expires 60 days after issuance
- Requires both parties to appear in person at the Clerk’s office
- Necessitates completion of the Marriage License Online Application
- Mandates reading of the Family Law Handbook
To obtain a Lee County Florida marriage license, couples must visit:
Lee County Clerk of Court
2115 Second Street, 2nd Floor
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Contact information:
Phone: (239) 533-5000
Email: RecordingDept@leeclerk.org
Office hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The license application process involves providing essential information and documents:
| Required Items | Details |
|---|---|
| Photo ID | U.S. Driver’s License or Passport |
| Social Security Numbers | For U.S. citizens |
| Previous Marriage Info | Date last marriage ended (if applicable) |
| Application Fee | $93.50 (as of 2023) |
I recommend couples to schedule an appointment online or call ahead to ensure a smooth and efficient process when obtaining their Lee County Florida marriage license.
Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in Lee County
Obtaining a marriage license in Lee County, Florida involves meeting specific criteria and providing necessary documentation. Here’s what you need to know about the key requirements:
Age and Identification
To apply for a marriage license in Lee County, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If one or both parties are 17, parental consent is required through a notarized Certificate of Consent for Marriage signed by both parents. The age difference between the parties can’t exceed 2 years when one is 17. Each applicant must present an acceptable form of photo identification, such as:
- U.S. Driver’s License
- U.S. State Identification Card
- Military ID
- Passport
- Matricular ID Card
- Foreign Passport
- U.S. Permanent Resident Card
Residency Requirements
Lee County doesn’t impose residency restrictions for obtaining a marriage license. You can acquire a license from any Florida county, including Lee, regardless of your place of residence. The license is valid for use anywhere within Florida, making it convenient for both residents and non-residents planning to marry in the state.
Previous Marriage Documentation
For individuals who’ve been previously married, additional documentation is necessary. You’ll need to provide:
- The date your last marriage ended
- Proof of divorce, such as a certified copy of the divorce decree
- Death certificate if you’re widowed
To obtain a marriage license or for more information, contact:
Lee County Clerk of Court
2115 Second Street, 2nd Floor
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 533-5000
It’s advisable to schedule an appointment online or call ahead to ensure a smooth process when visiting the office.
How to Apply for a Lee County Florida Marriage License
Applying for a marriage license in Lee County, Florida involves both online and in-person steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process efficiently.
Online Application Process
The online application is the first step in obtaining your Lee County marriage license:
- Complete the Marriage License Online Application on the Lee County Clerk of Court website.
- Read the Family Law Handbook, which is mandatory for all applicants.
- Print and fill out the Statement of Compliance Form, but don’t sign it yet.
- If you have a minor child born in Florida together, also complete the Affirmation of Common Children Born in Florida Form.
Remember, your online application remains valid for 30 days from the submission date.
In-Person Application
After completing the online portion, you’ll need to finalize the process in person:
- Schedule an appointment with the Lee County Clerk of Court.
- Bring all required documents, including:
- Photo ID (U.S. Driver’s License, Military ID, or Passport)
- Social Security numbers
- Completed forms from the online application
- Pay the $93.50 application fee.
- Both parties must be present to sign the forms and receive the license.
For in-person applications, visit the Lee County Clerk of Court at:
Lee County Justice Center
2075 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33901
To schedule an appointment or for further inquiries, call (239) 533-5000.
Fees and Payment Methods
The Lee County Clerk’s office has established specific fees for marriage licenses and ceremonies. Here’s a breakdown of the costs and payment information:
Marriage License Fees
- Standard fee: $93.50
- Reduced fee with approved premarital course: $61.00
Ceremony Fees
- Marriage ceremony at the Lee County Clerk’s office: $30
- This fee includes:
- 6 photos
- Keepsake marriage certificate
- Online wedding announcements
Payment Process
I’ve confirmed that fees must be paid in person at the clerk’s office. While specific payment methods aren’t listed, it’s common for government offices to accept cash, credit cards, or checks. To ensure you’re prepared, I recommend contacting the Lee County Clerk’s office directly for the most up-to-date payment information.
Additional Costs
If you lose your marriage license, you’ll need to pay a fee for a replacement. The exact amount isn’t specified, so it’s best to inquire directly with the clerk’s office.
Contact Information
For inquiries about fees, payment methods, or to schedule an appointment:
- Phone: (239) 533-5000
- Address: Lee County Justice Center, 2075 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901
I recommend calling ahead or checking the official website for the most current information on fees and accepted payment methods before your visit.
Waiting Period and License Validity
In Lee County, Florida, the waiting period and license validity for marriage licenses differ based on residency status. Here’s what you need to know:
Waiting Period
- Florida residents: A 3-day waiting period applies before the license can be used for marriage. This waiting period is waived if both applicants complete an approved pre-marital counseling course.
- Non-Florida residents: No waiting period applies.
- Mixed residency couples: If one applicant is a Florida resident, the 3-day waiting period is enforced.
License Validity
- Immediate issuance: The marriage license is issued right away upon application approval.
- 60-day validity: The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
- Florida-only use: The license can only be used within the state of Florida.
- Post-ceremony return: The officiant must return the completed license to the clerk’s office within 10 days after the ceremony for recording.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact:
Lee County Clerk of Court
2075 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 533-5000
Remember to plan accordingly, especially if you’re a Florida resident, to ensure your license is valid for your intended wedding date. Non-residents can use their license immediately upon receipt, offering greater flexibility for destination weddings in Lee County.
Marriage Ceremony Options in Lee County
Lee County offers various options for couples to celebrate their marriage. While courthouse ceremonies aren’t explicitly mentioned, couples have flexibility in choosing officiants and venues for their special day.
Courthouse Ceremonies
The Lee County Clerk of Court doesn’t explicitly state that they offer courthouse ceremonies. However, couples can contact the Clerk’s office at (239) 533-5000 for the most up-to-date information on any potential ceremony services they might provide.
Officiants and Venues
Lee County provides couples with a wide range of options for officiants and venues:
- Officiants: Florida law recognizes ordained ministers, judges, clerks of circuit courts, and notaries public as authorized to perform marriage ceremonies.
- Venues: Couples can choose from various locations, including beaches, parks, hotels, and private venues throughout Lee County.
- Popular wedding locations: Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, and Captiva Island offer scenic backdrops for ceremonies.
- Outdoor venues: J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge (1 Wildlife Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957) and Lakes Regional Park (7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33908) provide natural settings for weddings.
- Indoor options: The Edison & Ford Winter Estates (2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901) offers a historic venue for ceremonies.
For more information on specific venues or to book an officiant, couples can contact the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau at (239) 338-3500.
Name Change Considerations After Marriage
After getting married in Lee County, Florida, many individuals choose to change their name. Here are key considerations for the name change process:
- Marriage Certificate: Obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Lee County Clerk of Court. You’ll need these for various name change procedures.
- Social Security Card: Visit the local Social Security Administration office to update your name. Bring your marriage certificate and current ID.
- Address: 3650 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966
- Phone: (800) 772-1213
- Driver’s License: Update your name at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
- Address: 2571 N Airport Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33907
- Phone: (239) 225-3900
- Passport: If you have a valid passport, submit Form DS-82 along with your marriage certificate to update your name.
- Employer and Financial Institutions: Notify your employer, banks, and credit card companies of your name change.
- Other Documents: Update your name on insurance policies, voter registration, and other important documents.
Remember, the name change process can take time. Start with your Social Security card, as many other institutions require this update first. For specific questions about the name change process in Lee County, contact the Lee County Clerk of Court at (239) 533-5000.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Lee County, Florida is a straightforward process when you’re well-informed. I’ve covered the essential steps, requirements, and considerations to help you navigate this important milestone. Remember to plan ahead, gather all necessary documents, and take advantage of the resources available through the Lee County Clerk’s office. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to start your journey towards marriage in beautiful Lee County. I wish you all the best as you embark on this exciting new chapter in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to get a marriage license in Lee County, Florida?
You’ll need a valid photo ID (like a driver’s license, passport, or military ID), Social Security numbers, and information about previous marriages if applicable. If you’re 17, you’ll also need a notarized Certificate of Consent for Marriage from your parents. Both parties must be present at the Clerk’s office with these documents.
How much does a marriage license cost in Lee County?
The standard fee for a marriage license in Lee County is $93.50. However, if you complete an approved premarital course, the fee is reduced to $61.00. Additional fees may apply for ceremonies or replacement licenses. It’s best to contact the Lee County Clerk’s office for the most up-to-date fee information.
Is there a waiting period for getting married after obtaining a license?
For Florida residents, there’s a 3-day waiting period before the license can be used. This waiting period is waived if both applicants complete an approved pre-marital counseling course. Non-Florida residents have no waiting period. The license is valid for 60 days after issuance and can only be used within Florida.
Can non-residents get married in Lee County?
Yes, non-residents can get married in Lee County. There are no residency restrictions for obtaining a marriage license in Lee County, making it accessible for both residents and non-residents. Non-residents also benefit from having no waiting period before using their marriage license.
Where can I have my wedding ceremony in Lee County?
Lee County offers various wedding venues, including beaches, parks, hotels, and private locations. Popular spots include Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, and Captiva Island. You can also choose scenic outdoor locations like J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge or indoor venues like the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.
How do I change my name after getting married in Lee County?
To change your name after marriage, obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate, update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and passport. Then notify your employer and financial institutions. Start with the Social Security card, as many other institutions require this update first. The process can take time, so plan accordingly.
Who can officiate my wedding in Lee County?
In Lee County, and throughout Florida, ordained ministers, judges, clerks of circuit courts, and notaries public are authorized to officiate weddings. You have the flexibility to choose your preferred officiant for your ceremony, whether it’s a religious leader, justice of the peace, or a friend who’s been ordained.
How long is a Lee County marriage license valid?
A Lee County marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. It’s important to plan your wedding date within this timeframe. If you don’t use the license within 60 days, you’ll need to reapply and pay the fee again to obtain a new license.