Marriage Laws in Florida

Marriage laws must be followed when marrying in Florida.

There is a specific set of rules and regulations in place for legal marriage in the state of Florida, just like every other state in the nation. It is important that these marriage laws be followed in applying for a marriage license and completing the wedding ceremony in order to ensure that the marriage is completely legal.

Marriage License

A Florida marriage license is required in order for a couple to become married in the state. A couple should apply for a marriage license at least 30 days prior to the date of the ceremony. Once the marriage license has been obtained, the wedding ceremony should be held within 90 days. Applying for the license requires proof of age and identification, proof of single status and the payment of a nominal fee. The cost for a marriage license in the state of Florida as of 2010 is $93.50.

Application and Identification Requirement

Both the bride and the groom have to appear together in person when the application is submitted. A state-issued identification card is required, such as a state ID or driver's license, to become married in the state of Florida. An I-94 card, valid passport number or social security card may also be required, depending on where in Florida the couple is making the application. Non-residents need to provide identification, though it does not need to be a Florida-issued identification card.

Waiting Period Requirement

To marry legally in Florida, the bride and groom do not have to be legal residents of the state. Individuals who are not residents of Florida do not have the same requirements that residents do when it comes to the waiting period for marriage and the state-sanctioned course for marriage preparation. Residents of the state do have a mandated three-day waiting period, unless both the bride and groom have passed through a marriage prep course within a period of 12 months. After completing this course, the couple is entitled to a discount on the cost of the marriage license of $32.50.

Premarital Preparation Course

The preparation course must be provided by an instructor who is qualified and properly registered with the Circuit Court Clerk. The course must last at least four total hours to qualify. Topics covered by this course may include communication skills, conflict management, children and parenting, and related topics may include electronic media, videotape instruction and personal instruction.

References

• Florida State Law: Domestic Relations Statutes