Alachua County Marriage License Requirements
Planning to tie the knot in the sunny state of Florida? One of the essential steps in preparing for your wedding is obtaining a marriage license. But wait, what are the costs involved? Let’s dive into the details of marriage license fees in Florida and everything else you need to know before saying “I do.”
Introduction
Getting married is a momentous occasion, and in Florida, securing a marriage license is the first step towards making it official. However, before you start planning your dream wedding, it’s essential to understand the marriage license fees associated with the process.
Application Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Florida, there are a few key requirements that you should be aware of:
- Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply without parental consent.
- If either applicant is between 16 and 18 years of age, a birth certificate and proof of identification are required, along with notarized written consent from parents or guardians.
- Applicants under 16 years of age require a determination from a County Court Judge.
- A blood test is not necessary.
- A fee of $93.50 is required when submitting the marriage license application.
Marriage Waiting Period
Florida residents typically have a three-day waiting period before their marriage license becomes valid. However, this waiting period can be waived under certain circumstances:
- Florida residents who attend a 4-hour pre-marital course are exempt from the waiting period.
- Non-Florida residents are not subject to the waiting period.
Marriage Residency Requirement
You don’t have to be a resident of Florida to apply for a marriage license in the state. This makes Florida a popular destination for destination weddings.
Previous Marriages
If you or your partner have been previously married, you’ll need to provide the date of divorce or the date of your spouse’s death. If the divorce or death occurred within the past 30 days, you’ll need to provide a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate.
Marriage Blood Test
Unlike some states, Florida does not require couples to undergo a blood test as part of the marriage license application process.
Marriage License Fees
The standard fee for a marriage license in Florida is $93.50. However, there is a reduced fee of $61.00 available for Florida residents who have completed a premarital course conducted by a registered provider. To qualify for this reduced fee, a valid certificate of completion must be presented at the time of application.
Marriage Preparation Course
Taking a marriage preparation course can offer advantages to couples planning to get married in Florida. Florida residents who complete an approved marriage preparation course can enjoy:
- A $32.50 discount on the marriage license fee.
- Waiver of the three-day waiting period.
Non-Florida residents who take an accepted marriage preparation course can also have the waiting period waived.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step on your journey to marital bliss. By understanding the marriage license fees and requirements in Florida, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process as you prepare to say “I do.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can non-residents of Florida get married in the state?
A: Yes, non-residents can apply for a marriage license in Florida.
Q: Is there a waiting period for Florida residents?
A: Yes, there’s a three-day waiting period for most Florida residents, but it can be waived under specific conditions.
Q: Can cousins marry in Florida?
A: Yes, first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in Florida.
Q: Are witnesses required for the marriage ceremony?
A: No, witnesses are not required for a marriage ceremony in Florida.
Q: How long is a marriage license valid?
A: A marriage license in Florida is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
