Getting married in Florida is an exciting step, and understanding the marriage license process is crucial for a smooth start to your marital journey. While the entire marriage license application can’t be completed online, Florida offers an online pre-application to expedite the process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining your Florida marriage license, focusing on how to leverage online tools to make it easier.
Who Needs a Florida Marriage License?
If you are planning to get married within the Sunshine State, regardless of whether you are a Florida resident or not, you will need a Florida marriage license. It’s important to note that a Florida marriage license is valid for marriages performed anywhere within the state of Florida. If you plan to marry outside of Florida, you should obtain a marriage license from the state or country where the ceremony will take place.
Basic Requirements for Florida Marriage Licenses
To apply for a marriage license in Florida, both applicants must meet certain requirements:
- Age: Both parties must be 18 years of age or older. Specific rules apply to applicants who are 17 years old, which we will cover later.
- Presence: Both applicants must be present when applying for the marriage license.
- Identification: Each applicant must present a valid form of photo identification issued by a federal or state government. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Driver’s License (U.S. State or Government)
- Passport
- U.S. Military Identification
- State Identification Card (U.S. State or Government)
- Alien Registration Card
The ID must include your correct legal name, date of birth, and signature.
- Social Security Number: If you have been issued a Social Security number, you are required to provide it during the application process, as per Florida Statute. Non-U.S. citizens may provide either a Social Security number or an Alien Registration number if issued. If neither has been issued, alternative forms of identification may be necessary. Remember, you only need to provide the number; you do not need to present your Social Security card.
- Previous Marriages: If either applicant has been previously married, you must provide the exact date the last marriage ended due to divorce, death, or annulment.
The Marriage License Process in Florida
Florida aims to make the marriage license process straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Waiting Period or Premarital Course
Florida residents have a choice to make regarding the effectiveness of their marriage license:
- 3-Day Waiting Period: For Florida residents, there is a mandatory 3-day waiting period before the marriage license becomes effective. This means you cannot get married on the same day you apply for the license unless you meet the premarital course exemption.
- Premarital Course: Florida residents can waive the 3-day waiting period by completing a premarital course from a registered provider. Taking a premarital course also offers the benefit of a discount on your marriage license fee. You can find a directory of [Online Premarital Course Providers](Online Premarital Course Provider Directory) to find a course that suits you. Contact the clerk’s office for specific certificate requirements after completing the course. Non-Florida residents are exempt from any waiting period.
Utilizing the Online Pre-Application
To save time at the Clerk of Court’s office, Broward County, like many other counties in Florida, offers an online pre-application for your marriage license. While you still need to visit the office in person to finalize the application and receive your license, completing the pre-application online can significantly speed up the process. You can access the Marriage License Online Pre-Application to start this step. By filling out the forms online beforehand, you reduce your time spent in the office.
Important Information to Note
- No Blood Tests Required: Florida does not require blood tests to obtain a marriage license.
- Residency Not Required: You do not need to be a resident of Florida or any specific county within Florida to apply for a marriage license in Florida.
- License Validity: A Florida marriage license is valid for 60 days from its effective date and can be used for ceremonies anywhere within the State of Florida.
- Family Law Handbook: Before obtaining a marriage license, both applicants must sign an affidavit confirming they have read the Family Law Handbook. This handbook is available through The Florida Bar Family Law Section – Resources tab and at Clerk of Courts Marriage service locations.
- Affirmation of Common Child(ren) Born in Florida: If you and your partner have children together born in Florida, you will need to complete the Affirmation of Common Child(ren) Born in Florida form.
Requirements for Underage Applicants (Ages 17)
Florida law has specific stipulations for applicants who are 17 years of age:
- Age 17 Applicants: Applicants who are 17 years old must have the consent of both parents or a legal guardian to marry. If one parent has sole custody, original proof of custody is required. If a parent is deceased, a certified copy of the death certificate is necessary. Proof of age and parental identity is also required, typically through a certified birth certificate. Additionally, a 17-year-old can only marry someone who is no more than two years older.
- Applicants Under 17: Florida law prohibits the issuance of marriage licenses to anyone under the age of 17.
- Processing Location for Underage Applications: All applications involving underage applicants are processed at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, Room 02460.
Where to Apply for Your Marriage License
In Broward County, and across Florida, you can apply for your marriage license at any Clerk of Court’s office that provides marriage services. It is advisable to check the specific hours and locations of the marriage license offices in your county. Remember to bring all required documentation and, if you have completed it, your online pre-application confirmation.
Conclusion
Getting your marriage license in Florida involves a few key steps, and utilizing the online pre-application is a smart way to streamline the process. By understanding the requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and taking advantage of online tools, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience as you prepare for your wedding day in Florida. Remember to check the specific requirements of the county where you plan to apply and enjoy this important step in your journey to marriage!
