Florida Marriage License: Steps to Legally Tie the Knot

March 26, 2025

Preparing for a wedding is often a whirlwind of emotions, planning, and anticipation. While it’s exciting to decide on venues, flowers, and attire, one critical step cannot be overlooked—getting your marriage license. If you’re tying the knot in florida marriage license is a straightforward process. Here’s everything you need to know to handle it like a pro.
Why a Marriage License Matters
A marriage license is more than just a formality—it’s the legal document that allows you to officially become a married couple in the eyes of the law. Without it, your wedding won’t be legally recognized. Statistics show that Florida is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the U.S., hosting approximately 150,000 marriages annually. This popularity makes understanding the steps unique to Florida’s marriage license process even more crucial.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To start, you and your partner must meet Florida’s basic eligibility criteria. Both parties must:
• Be at least 18 years old (17 under specific conditions with parental consent).
• Provide a valid photo ID, like a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
• Not currently be married to anyone else.
Florida law does not require residency or proof of citizenship, which is why many non-residents select Florida for their destination weddings.
Step 2: Complete the Marriage License Application
Both individuals must apply together in person at a Florida Clerk of Courts office. There is no online application process, but you can streamline it by downloading and filling out the application form from the Clerk’s website beforehand. Be sure to double-check the information, as errors could delay the process.
Couples are also required to provide their Social Security numbers or an equivalent identification number if they are non-U.S. citizens.
Step 3: Pay the License Fee or Take the Premarital Course
The fee for obtaining a Florida marriage license is $93.50. However, Florida encourages couples to take a state-approved premarital preparation course, which can reduce the fee by around $32. Additionally, couples who take the course are exempt from the mandatory three-day waiting period. Without the course, the license will not be effective until three days after it is issued—something to keep in mind if you’re planning a short engagement.
Step 4: Know the Validity Period
Your Florida marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, which means you must say “I do” within that timeframe. After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the license and return it to the Clerk of Courts office to be officially recorded.
Failing to get married within these 60 days means you’ll need to start the process over, including repaying the fees.
Step 5: Celebrate with Confidence
Once you meet the requirements and submit your paperwork, you’re all set. Your officiant—whether it’s a judge, notary, or ordained minister—will ensure everything is finalized, and you can focus your attention on celebrating your special day.
With Florida ranking consistently among the top venues for destination weddings, understanding these marriage license steps puts you in the perfect position to join the millions of happy couples who make Florida their starting point for forever.