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1. Where can I obtain a certified copy of a marriage license?

Certified copies of marriage licenses can be obtained from our Public Records Center, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

2. What is age limit a person can get a marriage license without parental consent?

The individual must be at least 18 years of age.

3. If under the age of 18, can I still get a marriage license?

Per 741.04, F.S. Issuance of marriage license, with the effect of prohibiting a county court judge or Clerk of Court from issuing a marriage license to a person under the age of 18. However, a person that is at least 17 years of age may marry with written parental or legal guardian consent, but only if the other party is no more than two years older:

• Written consent of the parent or guardian of the minor to such marriage, acknowledged before an officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments and administer oaths, is filed with the clerk or court
• Both parents of the minor are deceased at the time of application
• When the minor has been married previously

4. Is a waiting period required?

If both applicants are not a resident of the State of Florida, then no waiting period is required. If either applicant is a resident of the State of Florida, then Florida does require a three day waiting period from the date you apply for your license. If both applicants have taken a premarital preparation course within one year prior to applying for their marriage license, from a course provider registered with the Clerk of Courts in Florida the waiting period will then be waived.

Example for the three day waiting period:

• License obtained on Monday, effective date will be Thursday
• License obtained on Tuesday, effective date will be Friday
• License obtained on Wednesday, effective date will be Saturday
• License obtained on Thursday, effective date will be on Sunday
• License obtained on Friday, effective date will be on Monday

5. Is a blood test required?

The State of Florida does not require a blood test.

6. Who can perform marriage ceremonies?

The following can perform ceremonies:

• All judicial officers
• Clerks of the circuit court
• A notary public of the State of Florida
• Ordained ministers or elders in communion with some church

7. If I get a marriage license in the State of Florida, can I take it to another state to be married?

No. The license is valid only in Florida and you must be married in the State of Florida.

8. How long is a marriage license good for?

A Marriage License must be used within 60 days from the effective date. The effective date is located on your license.

9. Will we have to read any material prior to our marriage license being issued?

Yes. Both applicants must read and make a sworn affidavit that they have read the Family Law Handbook created by the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar.

10. Must I be a Florida resident or a U.S. Citizen to apply for a marriage license?

No. Non-Florida residents and individuals who are not citizens of the United States of America may apply for a marriage license F.S. 741.04. Any person who is not a citizen of the United States, and has not been issued a social security number or an alien with a registration number, is encouraged to provide another form of identification such as a passport or visa.

11. Do I need to bring witnesses?

Witnesses are not required in the State of Florida.

12. Can I marry a relative?

Per F.S. 74121, A man person may not marry any woman person he/she is related by lineal consanguinity, nor his/her sister sibling, nor his/her aunt/uncle, nor his/her niece/nephew. A woman person may not marry any man to whom she is related by lineal consanguinity, nor his/her brother, nor his/her uncle, nor his/her nephew.

13. Can I marry a person of the same sex as I am?

Yes. Additionally, the Clerk's office performs ceremonies for an additional charge of $30.

14. Is my marriage in another state to a person of the same sex recognized in Florida?

Yes.