Introduction
Marriage is a beautiful union between two people who love each other. It is a significant milestone in life that marks the beginning of a new journey. However, before you can tie the knot, you need to obtain a marriage license. A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes couples to get married. It is a crucial requirement that must be fulfilled before you can exchange vows.
If you are planning to get married in Florida, it is essential to know the cost of a marriage license. Knowing the cost of a marriage license will help you budget accordingly and avoid any surprises. The cost of a marriage license in Florida varies depending on several factors, such as residency status, premarital counseling, and waiting period.
In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about the cost of a marriage license in Florida. We will provide you with a breakdown of the costs associated with obtaining a marriage license, any additional fees that may be required, and tips for saving money on a marriage license.
So, whether you are a Florida resident or planning a destination wedding in the Sunshine State, this blog post is for you. Our goal is to help you navigate the process of obtaining a marriage license in Florida with ease and confidence. Let's get started!
Table of Content
- What is a Marriage License?
- How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in Florida?
- Tips for Saving Money on a Marriage License
- Conclusion
What is a Marriage License?
Marriage is a beautiful union between two people who love each other. However, before you can tie the knot, you need to obtain a marriage license. A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes a couple to get married. It is a requirement in every state in the US, including Florida.
The purpose of a marriage license is to ensure that both parties meet the legal requirements to get married. It is a way for the state to regulate marriage and protect the rights of individuals. The legal requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Florida include being at least 18 years old, not being closely related, and not being currently married.
It is important to note that a marriage license is not the same as a marriage certificate. A marriage certificate is a legal document that proves that a couple is married. It is issued after the wedding ceremony has taken place and the marriage license has been signed by the couple and the officiant.
In Florida, a marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. This means that the couple must get married within 60 days of obtaining the license. If they do not get married within this time frame, they will need to apply for a new license.
Now that you know what a marriage license is and its purpose, it's time to discuss the cost of obtaining one in Florida. In the next section, we will break down the costs associated with getting a marriage license in Florida and provide tips for saving money.
How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in Florida?
Getting married is an exciting time in anyone's life, but it's important to know the costs associated with obtaining a marriage license in Florida. In Florida, the cost of a marriage license is $93.50. This fee includes a $61.00 fee for the marriage license and a $32.50 fee for the marriage certificate. It's important to note that this fee is non-refundable, even if the marriage license is not used.
There are some additional fees that may be required when obtaining a marriage license in Florida. For example, if you and your partner have completed a premarital course, you may be eligible for a discount on the marriage license fee. Additionally, if you are not a Florida resident, you may be required to pay an additional fee.
It's also worth noting that the cost of a marriage license in Florida is relatively low compared to other states. For example, in California, the cost of a marriage license can range from $35.00 to $100.00 depending on the county.
If you're looking to save money on your marriage license, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, consider completing a premarital course to qualify for a discount. Additionally, make sure to budget for the cost of the marriage license when planning your wedding expenses.
In conclusion, knowing the cost of a marriage license in Florida is an important part of planning your wedding. With a fee of $93.50, it's a relatively affordable expense, but it's important to budget accordingly. By following these tips and being prepared, you can obtain your marriage license with ease and start your new life together.
Tips for Saving Money on a Marriage License
Getting married is an exciting time in anyone's life, but it can also be expensive. Between the wedding venue, catering, and attire, the costs can quickly add up. One expense that many couples may overlook is the cost of a marriage license. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this important legal document.
Tip #1: Apply Early
In Florida, there is a three-day waiting period between the time you apply for a marriage license and when you can actually get married. However, if you complete a premarital course, the waiting period is waived. By applying for your marriage license early and completing the premarital course, you can save both time and money.
Tip #2: Look for Discounts
Some counties in Florida offer discounts on marriage licenses for couples who complete a premarital course. Additionally, some counties may offer discounts for active military members or veterans. It's worth checking with your local county clerk's office to see if any discounts are available.
Tip #3: Get Married on a Weekday
Many couples choose to get married on a weekend, but this can be more expensive. Some counties in Florida offer lower fees for marriage licenses if you get married on a weekday. This can be a great way to save money and still have a beautiful wedding.
Tip #4: Bring Cash
While many county clerk's offices accept credit cards, they may charge an additional fee for processing. By bringing cash to pay for your marriage license, you can avoid these extra fees and save money.
Tip #5: Plan Ahead
Finally, one of the best ways to save money on a marriage license is to plan ahead. By researching the requirements and fees ahead of time, you can budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses.
In conclusion, getting married doesn't have to break the bank. By following these tips, you can save money on your marriage license and put those savings towards other aspects of your wedding. Remember, a little bit of planning can go a long way in making your special day both memorable and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a fl marriage license?
In Florida, it typically takes 3-5 business days to receive a marriage license after submitting the application. However, some counties offer expedited services for an additional fee.
What do you need to get marriage license in Florida?
To get a marriage license in Florida, both parties must appear in person at the Clerk of Court's office and provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. They must also provide their social security numbers and pay a fee.
Is there a 3 day waiting period for marriage license in Florida?
Yes, there is a mandatory 3 day waiting period for all Florida marriage licenses. However, this waiting period can be waived for couples who complete a premarital course.
Do you need witnesses to get married in Florida?
Yes, you need at least two witnesses to get married in Florida. They must be present during the ceremony and sign the marriage license as witnesses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Florida is an important step for couples who are planning to get married. It is crucial to know the cost of a marriage license and any additional fees that may be required to avoid any surprises. By following the tips provided in this blog post, couples can save money on their marriage license and budget accordingly.
Remember, a marriage license is not just a piece of paper, it is a legal document that signifies the commitment between two individuals. It is important to take this step seriously and ensure that all legal requirements are met.
So, if you are planning to get married in Florida, take the time to research the cost of a marriage license and plan accordingly. Don't let the cost of a marriage license deter you from taking this important step in your relationship.
We hope that this blog post has been helpful in providing you with the information you need to obtain a marriage license in Florida. Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials and best of luck in your future together!
