How to Get a Marriage License in Florida

There are so many questions when it comes to marriage licenses from most all our couples. No matter if your local or coming from out of state, Florida laws can be confusing and technical. We will lay it out very clearly for you so you can feel empowered and not feel like the marriage license is another question mark.

What documents will we need? A valid driver's license or state ID, and a passport if one or both of the couple is not a U.S. citizen.

How close to the wedding can we get the license? The furthest you can get your license is 60 days out. The soonest you can get the license is the day before, but that is if you are a resident and have completed the premarital course prior to. We advise a week or more before your wedding date as there is generally a 3 business day waiting period in Florida.

Where do we go to get our marriage license? The Clerk of Court within your county. Duval County: 501 W Adams St, Jacksonville, FL 32202. St. Johns County: 4010 Lewis Speedway, St Augustine, FL 32084.

Hands signing a Florida marriage license at a reception table

Do we need an appointment or can we just walk in? It depends on your county — Duval County, FL accepts walk-ins.

Can we apply in a different county than the county we're getting married in? In Florida, a marriage license is valid for a ceremony in any county within the state of Florida.

Are there additional rules or proof of identity needed if a non-U.S. citizen? As a non-U.S. citizen, you'll need to bring a government ID/passport and a Social Security number or alien registration number.

Does the license cost anything? Cash or check for the $86 fee (for most Florida counties).

What happens after the wedding and who needs to be present for the signatures of the marriage license? After the wedding, the marriage license must have these things to be complete: the signature of the couple getting married, the officiant's signature, and a witness or two (depending on the state, but one is required in Florida). Next, the officiant will mail in the license to the clerk of court and you're set!

You will be sent a copy of your marriage certificate so make sure your address on your driver's license is up to date. For additional copies you can request them from your local Clerk of Court.