How to Apply For a Marriage License in Florida

The Sunshine State is home to Mickey Mouse, the Daytona 500 and thousands of weddings per year. Consider saying your nuptials on one of the more than a thousand miles of coastline property or a yacht or country club. If you’re planning to marry in Florida, make sure you get your marriage license at least three days before your wedding.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Identification
• Social Security Card
• Cash

1. Collect one picture ID and the social security card for both the bride and groom.

2. Gather certified final divorce decrees if either or both parties have been married previously. Alternatively, a certificate of death of a previous spouse should be obtained.

3. Visit the Web site under the Resources section to find the location of the marriage license issuing office in the county where the ceremony will take place.

4. Visit the county Web site to find the location, hours and directions to the county office you will be applying.

5. Head to the county office with bride, groom, documentation (including premarital certificate) and $93.50 cash or credit card between three and 60 days of the ceremony.

Tips & Warnings

• First cousin marriages are permitted.
• Minors under 16 years old may marry with an order by the Family Court of Florida. Minors 16 and 17 years old may marry with consent from both parents.
• Both the bride and the groom must be present to apply for and sign the marriage license.
• Many counties in Florida offer non-religious premarital counseling and classes. If you choose to partake in these classes, you can save $60 on your fee.
• Florida marriage licenses are valid for 60 days.
• Proxy, common law and same sex marriages are forbidden.