Unlocking the Price: How Much Does a Marriage License Really Cost in Florida?

AvatarByKelsey Garrison Marriage

Marriage is a beautiful and significant milestone in one’s life, marking the union of two individuals in love. However, there are various legal aspects that need to be taken care of before walking down the aisle. One of the crucial requirements for getting married in Florida is obtaining a marriage license. This document not only validates the wedding ceremony but also serves as proof of legal marriage. But the question is, how much does a marriage license cost in Florida? In this article, we will delve into all the necessary information about the cost of a marriage license in the sunshine state. Whether you are planning to say “I do” on a sandy beach or at a luxurious venue, understanding the expenses involved in obtaining a marriage license is vital. So, let’s explore and unravel this important aspect of getting married in Florida.

Overview of Marriage License Costs in Florida

In Florida, a marriage license is required for couples who wish to get legally married. This license serves as proof of the marriage and is necessary for anyone who wants to change their name, update their marital status, or receive any spousal benefits.

The cost of a marriage license in Florida varies depending on the county where you apply for it. The state does not have a fixed fee for marriage licenses, and it is up to each county to set their own rates. Generally, the price ranges from $60 to $100.

The good news is that Florida offers discounts on marriage licenses for couples who participate in premarital counseling. These discounts can save you between $25-$32.50 on your marriage license fee.

If you plan on getting married in Florida, it’s essential to understand the costs and requirements associated with obtaining a marriage license. This article will provide an in-depth overview of the costs involved in getting a marriage license in Florida.

County Fees for Marriage Licenses

As mentioned earlier, the cost of a marriage license varies from one county to another in Florida. The average price range is between $60-$100, but some counties may go as low as $55 or as high as $103.50.

Some counties offer discounts if you are a resident of that particular county. For instance, Hillsborough County provides a discount of $32.50 if both applicants are residents. However, this discount does not apply if one applicant is out-of-state.

It’s also worth noting that some counties charge an additional fee if either applicant is under 18 years old. For example, Miami-Dade County charges an extra $7 when either party is under 18 years old. If both parties are under 18, the cost increases by $14.

Additionally, some counties require payment by cash or check only. Make sure to check with your county clerk’s office for accepted forms of payment.

Pre-marital Counseling Discounts

Florida offers discounts on marriage licenses for couples who participate in premarital counseling. This could save you between $25-$32.50 on your marriage license fee.

Premarital counseling is encouraged by the state to promote healthy marriages and reduce the divorce rates in Florida. Both parties must attend a premarital course from a registered provider in order to receive the discount.

The course should consist of at least four hours, addressing topics such as conflict management, communication skills, financial responsibilities, and parenting matters. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate that is valid for one year from the date issued.

It’s important to note that the premarital course discount only applies if both applicants are getting married for the first time and are applying for their marriage license together. The discount does not apply if one applicant has been previously married or is applying without their partner.

Out-of-State Applicants

If one or both parties are out-of-state residents, additional fees may apply when obtaining a marriage license in Florida. These fees can range from $7-$93 depending on the county.

Most counties require out-of-state applicants to submit a notarized affidavit with their application form. The affidavit must state that both parties have read and understood the Florida Marriage Handbook and agree to be bound by its terms.

Some counties also require out-of-state applicants to have their signatures on the application form notarized by a Florida Notary Public before submitting it for processing.

Additional Fees and Requirements

Aside from county fees, there may be additional fees and requirements associated with obtaining a marriage license in Florida. For instance, some counties charge an extra fee if you request a printed copy of your marriage certificate after your wedding.

It’s also important to note that a Florida marriage license is only valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If you do not get married within this time, you will have to apply for a new license before your wedding.

Both parties must also provide a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport when applying for a marriage license. Non-U.S citizens may be required to provide additional documents such as proof of legal status in the country.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in Florida involves several costs and requirements. It’s important to research the fees set by your county and any additional fees that may apply. Remember to take advantage of the premarital counseling discount and make sure all requirements are met before applying for your marriage license. Congratulations on taking this step towards starting your life together as a legally married couple in Florida!

Overview of Marriage License Costs in Florida

Getting married is an exciting time in anyone’s life, but it can also come with a lot of expenses. One of the first things you will need to do when planning to tie the knot is obtaining a marriage license. In the state of Florida, the cost of a marriage license varies depending on your specific circumstances and location. In this comprehensive guide, we will give you an overview of the marriage license costs in Florida and what you can expect to pay.

Factors That Affect Marriage License Costs in Florida

Before we dive into the specific costs associated with obtaining a marriage license in Florida, it is essential to understand the various factors that can influence these costs. These factors include:

– County: The cost of a marriage license can vary from one county to another in Florida.
– Residency: If you or your partner are not residents of Florida, you may be subject to higher fees for obtaining a marriage license.
– Premarital Course: Completing a premarital course can lessen the cost of your marriage license in some counties.
– Age: In Florida, anyone under the age of 18 must have consent from their parent or legal guardian and may have additional fees associated with obtaining a marriage license.
– Waiting Period: There is typically a three-day waiting period between obtaining your marriage license and getting married unless you complete a premarital course.

Costs Associated With Obtaining a Marriage License in Florida

Now that we’ve discussed how various factors can affect the cost of your marriage license let’s break down the actual expenses associated with getting one in Florida.

Marriage License Fee

The basic fee for obtaining a marriage license in Florida is $93.50. This fee includes a $63.50 state fee and an additional $30 clerk’s service charge. The clerk’s service charge is used for administrative costs and other services.

Premarital Course Fee

As mentioned earlier, completing a premarital course can save you money on your marriage license. If you choose to take a premarital course, the standard marriage license fee is reduced to $61.00, with an $8.50 clerk’s service charge for a total of $69.50.

County Fees

In some counties, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining a marriage license. For example, in Miami-Dade County, there is an additional $30 fee for couples who are not residents of Florida. These county-specific fees may also vary depending on the location where you apply for your marriage license.

Copies and Other Documents

If you need additional copies of your marriage license or any other documents from the county clerk’s office, there may be additional fees associated with them. Typically, these fees range from $1-$5 per copy.

How to Pay for Your Marriage License

Now that we’ve covered the various costs associated with obtaining your marriage license in Florida let’s discuss how you can pay for it.

– Cash: Many county clerk’s offices only accept cash payments.
– Credit/Debit Card: Some counties will accept credit or debit card payments, but there may be an additional convenience fee.
– Checks: Some counties also accept personal checks but make sure to check with your specific county first.
– Online Payment: A few counties offer the option to pay for your marriage license online before going into the office to pick it up.

Applying for Your Marriage License in Florida

To apply for a marriage license in Florida, both parties will need to appear in person at any county clerk’s office within the state. You will need to bring a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate. You will also need to provide your social security numbers and your mother’s full birth names. If either party has been previously married, you will need to provide the date of your divorce or the date of your spouse’s death.

It is essential to note that there is a three-day waiting period between obtaining your marriage license and getting married unless you complete a premarital course. There are exemptions to this waiting period for active military members and those who can provide written proof that they are taking one of the parties out on a ship and cannot appear in person to obtain the license.

Obtaining a marriage license in Florida is an important and necessary step if you plan on getting married in the state. The overall costs may vary depending on factors such as county, residency, and age. However, by understanding these costs and taking advantage of any discounts or exemptions, you can save money while starting your happily ever after with your partner. Make sure to plan ahead by researching the specific costs for obtaining a marriage license in your county before heading into the clerk’s office.

1) How much does it cost to obtain a marriage license in Florida?
The cost of a marriage license in Florida varies depending on the county, but it typically ranges from $93.50 to $108.50.

2) Are there any additional fees or requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Florida?
Yes, there may be additional fees or requirements such as completing a premarital course, providing proof of identification and social security numbers, and a waiting period before the license is issued.

3) Can I save money on my marriage license if I complete a premarital course?
Yes, completing a premarital course can save you up to $32.50 on your marriage license fee. The course must be completed within one year prior to applying for the license and must be from an approved provider.

4) Does the cost of a marriage license in Florida differ for out-of-state residents?
No, the cost of a marriage license is the same for both Florida residents and non-residents. However, non-residents may have different requirements for obtaining the license.

5) Is there an expiration date on a marriage license in Florida?
Yes, a marriage license in Florida is valid for 60 days after it is issued. If not used within this time period, you will need to reapply and pay the fee again.

6) Can I request a waiver for the marriage license fee if I cannot afford it?
There are no provisions for waiving the marriage license fee due to financial hardship. However, some counties may offer reduced fees or payment plans upon request. It is best to check with your local county clerk’s office for more information.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Florida involves a few key steps and costs that couples should be aware of. The cost of a marriage license in Florida varies depending on the county and type of ceremony, but typically ranges from $93.50 to $108. Couples can apply for their license in person at the county clerk’s office or through an online application, but both options require certain documents and information to be provided. Additionally, there may be additional fees for premarital counseling or expedited service. It is important for couples to carefully research and plan for these costs in advance to avoid any delays or unexpected expenses.

Moreover, while the cost of a marriage license is important to consider, it should not overshadow the significance of marriage itself. Marriage is a commitment between two individuals who are joining their lives together and embarking on a journey as partners. The process of obtaining a marriage license serves as a reminder of the legal aspects involved in this commitment, but it should not detract from the joy and love that comes with marriage.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that the cost of a marriage license is just one aspect of starting a life together as a married couple. There will be other expenses to consider such as wedding preparations, setting up a household, and potential future investments

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Kelsey Garrison
Kelsey Garrison, our esteemed author and a passionate writer in the world of weddings and bridal fashion, has been an integral part of our website since its inception.

With a rich history in creating engaging content, Kelsey has consistently brought fresh insights and valuable information to our readers.

Starting in 2024, Kelsey made a significant transition to focus specifically on the "Wedding/Bridal Fashion, Wedding Tips" niche. This shift was driven by her desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of wedding planning and bridal fashion—a field that blends timeless elegance with contemporary trends.

Her articles are meticulously researched and designed to provide thorough answers and innovative ideas for all things wedding-related.