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Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Florida Marriage License - Requirements and Application Process Explained

Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Florida Marriage License - Requirements and Application Process Explained

Get married in sunny Florida! Learn how to obtain a marriage license, including requirements and fees. Start planning your dream wedding today.

Getting married in Florida is a dream come true for many couples. With its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and warm weather all year round, it's easy to see why. However, before tying the knot, there is an important document that must be obtained - the Florida marriage license. This legal document is required for all couples wishing to get married in the state of Florida, and it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate the process. But don't worry, we've got you covered.

First things first, let's talk about what a Florida marriage license is and why it's necessary. A marriage license is a legal document that gives permission for two individuals to get married. In Florida, both parties must apply for the license together in person at a county courthouse or through an online application process. The license is valid for 60 days and can be used anywhere within the state of Florida.

Now that you know what a Florida marriage license is, let's dive into the application process. The application itself is relatively straightforward and requires basic personal information such as your name, address, and social security number. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Additionally, if either party has been previously married, they will need to provide proof of divorce or death.

Once you have completed the application and provided all necessary documentation, you will be required to pay a fee. The fee varies depending on the county, but it typically ranges from $86-$93. It's important to note that this fee is non-refundable, so make sure all information is correct before submitting your application.

After submitting your application and paying the fee, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period before the license can be issued. However, this waiting period can be waived if both parties attend a premarital course provided by a registered provider. The course must be a minimum of four hours and cover topics such as conflict resolution, communication, and financial responsibility.

Assuming you've completed the waiting period or had it waived, it's time to pick up your Florida marriage license! Both parties must be present to pick up the license, and it must be picked up in person at the county courthouse where the application was submitted. Once you have the license, you're ready to get married!

When it comes to getting married in Florida, there are many beautiful locations to choose from. Whether you opt for a beach wedding, a historic venue, or a picturesque garden, there is something for every couple. Keep in mind that some locations may require additional permits or fees, so it's important to plan ahead.

Finally, it's worth noting that Florida recognizes both religious and civil ceremonies. If you choose to have a religious ceremony, the officiant must be authorized by their respective religious organization. If you opt for a civil ceremony, the officiant must be a Florida notary public, a judge, or a clerk of the circuit court. Additionally, two witnesses must be present to sign the marriage license.

In conclusion, obtaining a Florida marriage license may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a breeze. Remember to plan ahead, attend a premarital course if possible, and enjoy your special day in one of the most beautiful states in the country!

Introduction

Florida, the Sunshine State, is a popular destination for couples planning to tie the knot. With its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and picturesque scenery, it's no wonder that Florida is a top choice for weddings. However, before saying I do, couples must obtain a Florida marriage license. In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in Florida.

Eligibility Requirements

To obtain a marriage license in Florida, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, they must have written consent from their parent or legal guardian. Additionally, both parties must provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or annulment.

Application Process

Couples can apply for a Florida marriage license in person at any county courthouse or clerk of court office. It's recommended to apply at least 30 days before the wedding to allow time for processing. The application fee varies by county but typically ranges from $60 to $93. Some counties may also require a premarital course certificate, which can be obtained through a registered provider.

Civil vs. Religious Ceremonies

Florida allows both civil and religious ceremonies, and couples can choose to be married by a judge, justice of the peace, or religious official. However, if a couple chooses to have a religious ceremony, the officiant must be authorized by their respective faith to perform marriages.

Waiting Period

Florida has a three-day waiting period for residents who do not complete a premarital course. The waiting period begins the day the application is submitted and ends three days later, allowing couples to obtain their marriage license on the fourth day. However, non-Florida residents and Florida residents who complete a premarital course are exempt from the waiting period.

Validity

A Florida marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If the wedding does not take place within that time frame, the license will expire, and the couple will need to apply for a new one.

Same-Sex Marriage

In 2015, same-sex marriage was legalized in Florida, allowing couples of the same gender to obtain a marriage license and get married just like any other couple.

Destination Weddings

Florida is a popular destination for weddings, and many couples choose to have a destination wedding on one of the state's beautiful beaches. Non-residents can apply for a marriage license in any Florida county, making it easy for couples to plan their dream wedding from out of state.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a Florida marriage license is a straightforward process that ensures your marriage is legal and recognized by the state. Whether you're a Florida resident or planning a destination wedding, make sure to follow all the eligibility requirements and application procedures to ensure a smooth and stress-free process. Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials!

Florida Marriage License: What You Need to Know

Getting married in Florida requires obtaining a marriage license. The state has specific requirements that must be met before the license can be issued. Understanding these requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in Florida

To obtain a marriage license in Florida, couples must meet certain requirements. They must be at least 18 years of age and not currently married. If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or annulment. In addition, both parties must provide valid identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID.

Age and Identification Requirements for Marriage License

The age and identification requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Florida are strict. Both parties must be at least 18 years old and provide valid identification. If either party is under the age of 18, they must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian. In addition, minors must also provide a certified copy of their birth certificate.

Waiting Period and Timeframe for Marriage License Application

There is a waiting period of three days for obtaining a marriage license in Florida. This means that after the application has been submitted, there is a mandatory waiting period of three days before the license is issued. However, couples may waive this waiting period if they complete a premarital preparation course approved by the state. The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued.

Fee and Payment Options for Marriage License Application

The fee for obtaining a marriage license in Florida varies by county. Couples should check with their local county clerk's office for specific fees. Most counties accept cash, checks, and credit cards as payment options. It is important to note that the fee is non-refundable, even if the license is not used.

Residency Requirements for Marriage License

There are no residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Florida. Couples may apply for a license regardless of where they live. However, both parties must appear in person at the county clerk's office to apply for the license.

Blood Tests and Physical Examinations for Marriage License

Florida does not require blood tests or physical examinations for obtaining a marriage license. This means that couples do not need to take any medical tests before applying for a license.

Marriage Counseling and Education Requirements for Marriage License

Florida does not have any mandatory marriage counseling or education requirements for obtaining a marriage license. However, some counties may offer optional premarital preparation courses. Completing one of these courses may waive the mandatory waiting period and reduce the cost of the license.

Obtaining a Marriage License for Non-U.S. Citizens

Non-U.S. citizens may obtain a marriage license in Florida, but they must provide additional documentation. This includes a valid passport and, if applicable, a visa. They may also need to provide additional identification, such as a birth certificate or driver's license from their country of origin.

Renewing or Updating a Marriage License in Florida

Florida does not allow couples to renew or update their marriage license. If a couple needs to make changes to their license, such as correcting a name or date, they must apply for a new license. This requires paying the full application fee again.

Legal Documentation and Requirements for Marriage License Application

When applying for a marriage license in Florida, couples must provide legal documentation. This includes valid identification, proof of age, and proof of divorce or annulment if applicable. They may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a premarital preparation course certificate or non-U.S. citizen documentation.

Obtaining a marriage license in Florida may seem like a daunting process, but by understanding the requirements and following the proper steps, couples can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Whether you are a U.S. citizen or non-U.S. citizen, meeting the age and identification requirements, paying the application fee, and providing the necessary legal documentation are essential steps in obtaining your Florida marriage license.

Florida Marriage License: Pros and Cons

Overview of Florida Marriage License

A Florida marriage license is a legal document that permits two individuals to get married in the state of Florida. Obtaining a marriage license is an essential requirement for anyone who wants to get married in Florida, regardless of whether or not they are residents of the state. The process of obtaining a Florida marriage license is relatively straightforward, and it usually takes around 30 minutes to complete.

Pros of Florida Marriage License

  • Legal recognition: A Florida marriage license provides legal recognition of marriage in the state of Florida. This means that spouses have legal rights and responsibilities, such as property ownership, inheritance, and decision-making authority.

  • Easy to obtain: The process of obtaining a Florida marriage license is relatively straightforward, and it usually takes around 30 minutes to complete. The requirements are minimal, which makes it easy for couples to obtain a marriage license.

  • Valid for 60 days: A Florida marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. This gives couples enough time to plan their wedding ceremony and get everything in order before their marriage license expires.

  • No waiting period: In Florida, there is no waiting period between obtaining a marriage license and getting married. This means that couples can get married as soon as they obtain their marriage license.

Cons of Florida Marriage License

  • Cost: The cost of a Florida marriage license varies depending on the county in which it is obtained. On average, a Florida marriage license costs around $93.50. This can be a significant expense for some couples.

  • Identification requirements: In order to obtain a Florida marriage license, both individuals must provide identification. This can be an issue for individuals who do not have valid identification or for couples who are undocumented.

  • No common law marriage: In Florida, there is no common law marriage. This means that couples who live together and present themselves as married are not considered legally married without a marriage license.

Table of Florida Marriage License Keywords

Keyword Description
Florida marriage license A legal document that permits two individuals to get married in the state of Florida.
Legal recognition Provides legal rights and responsibilities to spouses, such as property ownership, inheritance, and decision-making authority.
Easy to obtain The process of obtaining a Florida marriage license is relatively straightforward and usually takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Valid for 60 days A Florida marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
No waiting period In Florida, there is no waiting period between obtaining a marriage license and getting married.
Cost The cost of a Florida marriage license varies depending on the county in which it is obtained, but on average, it costs around $93.50.
Identification requirements Both individuals must provide identification to obtain a Florida marriage license.
No common law marriage In Florida, there is no common law marriage.

Closing Message for Florida Marriage License Visitors

Thank you for taking the time to read our comprehensive guide on obtaining a Florida marriage license. We hope that this has been helpful in answering your questions and providing you with the necessary information to begin the process of getting married in the Sunshine State.

As we have discussed, there are several important steps to follow when applying for a marriage license in Florida. It is important to plan ahead and make sure that you have all of the necessary documents and information before you go to the courthouse. This will help to ensure that the process goes smoothly and that you can get your license in a timely manner.

Remember that Florida has a three-day waiting period after obtaining your marriage license before you can legally get married. This means that you should plan accordingly and give yourself enough time to complete all of the necessary steps before your wedding day.

If you have any additional questions or concerns about obtaining a Florida marriage license, we encourage you to reach out to your local courthouse or consult with a professional wedding planner in the area. They will be able to provide you with more specific information and guidance based on your unique situation.

We also want to remind you that marriage is a serious commitment and should not be taken lightly. Take the time to discuss your future plans and goals with your partner before tying the knot. This will help to ensure that you are both on the same page and ready for this next step in your lives together.

Finally, we would like to wish you all the best as you embark on this exciting journey. Getting married is a special and memorable occasion, and we hope that your wedding day is everything that you have dreamed of and more.

Thank you again for choosing to read our guide on obtaining a Florida marriage license. We hope that it has been helpful and informative.

People Also Ask About Florida Marriage License

What are the requirements for getting a Florida marriage license?

To get a Florida marriage license, both parties must appear in person and provide valid photo identification such as a driver's license or passport. Both parties must also provide their social security numbers and proof of any previous marriages being dissolved. If either party has been divorced within the past 30 days, they must provide a copy of the divorce decree.

What is the cost of a Florida marriage license?

The cost of a Florida marriage license varies by county, with most counties charging around $93.50. Some counties offer discounts for completing premarital counseling. It is important to check with your county clerk's office for the exact cost and payment methods accepted.

How long does it take to get a Florida marriage license?

In Florida, there is no waiting period to obtain a marriage license. Once all required documents are submitted and the fee is paid, the license can be issued immediately. However, the license is only valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, so couples should plan accordingly.

Can non-residents get married in Florida?

Yes, non-residents can get married in Florida as long as they meet the same requirements as residents. There are no residency requirements to obtain a Florida marriage license.

Do we need to have witnesses present when we apply for a Florida marriage license?

No, witnesses are not required when applying for a Florida marriage license. However, two witnesses over the age of 18 must be present at the wedding ceremony and sign the marriage license afterwards.

Can we get married the same day we obtain our Florida marriage license?

Yes, couples can get married the same day they obtain their Florida marriage license as long as they have a qualified officiant to perform the ceremony. Florida does not require a waiting period or blood tests before getting married.