The sunshine state is known for its pristine beaches, long coastlines, warm temps, the everglades, alligators, and theme parks! It’s easy to see why so many people want to say I do in the beautiful state of Florida! Before you get too caught up in all the other details of wedding planning let us help you sort out one of the most important aspects of your wedding, obtaining the marriage license…

The great news is this step will be the same no matter where you are in the state of Florida! Marriage license’s in the state of Florida are issued by a county court judge or clerk of the circuit court. Head to your nearest clerk of the circuit court office. It is important to note that you can get married in any county in Florida, regardless of where you obtained your marriage license.

You will be able to obtain the marriage license here for $93.50 and both partners must apply at the same time. Find a Clerk of the Court contact information here and by county here.

HOT TIP: if you and your partner are Florida residents you can complete a premarital preparation course, the cost of the marriage license will only be $61 AND you can skip the 3-day waiting period. This course must be completed within one year before obtaining the marriage license and you must present a valid certification of completion to the Clerk’s office when applying.

It is important to be as prepared as possible with all the appropriate documents for your appointment at the Clerk’s office. Government-issued photo ID, Social security numbers, any documentation of previous marriages, and your preferred payment method.

Lastly and importantly, you must provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope for the return of their certified copy of the marriage certificate once it has been recorded. This can typically be purchased at the office.

In the state of Florida, a marriage license is valid for 60 days after it is issued. If you do not complete the Florida Pre-marital course there is a 3-day waiting period after issuance of the license before you can get married. Make sure your wedding day is with in that 60-day timeframe to ensure the license is not expired!

Time to tie the knot! According to Florida state statute:  your marriage may be solemnized by “All regularly ordained ministers of the gospel or elders in communion with some church, or other ordained clergies, and all judicial officers, including retired judicial officers, clerks of the circuit courts, and notaries public of this state.”

Once you say I do and the marriage license is signed by both parties and the officiant it will need to be mailed back to the court office to be certified. This must happen within 10 days of the wedding ceremony. Lastly, an official, certified copy will be sent back to you. Congratulations you are legally married in the state of Florida!

Don’t forget to make obtaining your marriage license special! This is a monumental step in your journey to marriage. Major milestones like this one should be celebrated. Plan a special meal or a champagne toast to commemorate the occasion!

Photos by: Berkley McGaughey Photography