Here's the 411:
1. A marriage license fee varies from $88.50 to $113.50, depending on which county court house you visit. (A discount of $32.50 is offered to couples who complete a 4-hour premarital counseling course).
Payment for the marriage license can be made with cash, money order, Visa, or MasterCard. No personal checks are accepted.
2. Both the bride and groom are required to be present when license is issued.
3. One Picture ID required with applican't picture, signature and brith date (state driver license, passport, Alien Registration card, State ID). All US citizens and residents must provide a Social Security Card.
4. The marriage license is valid for 60 days from its effective date.
5. If divorced, you must know the date the divorce became final. Some counties require a certified copy of the Final Judgment of Dissolution. (Check with the Clerk of Court in the county you are applying for a marriage license). If widowed, date of death is requested.
6. There is a 3-day waiting period for Florida residents after issuance of the marriage license. For example, if you are getting married on a Saturday, you must obtain the marriage license before the prior Wednesday for it to be valid.
There is no waiting period for couples who fulfilled the 4-hour preparation course.
Couples who reside in another state or country, and come to Florida to get married, are also exempt from this provision.
7. The marriage license can be obtained from any of the 67 counties in Florida and still be valid anywhere within the state.
Hope this helps clear some of the questions that may arise regarding this procedure.
