Nassau County
Marriage License Requirements
If you’re planning to tie the knot in the Sunshine State, understanding the marriage license fees and requirements is essential. Getting married involves more than just saying “I do.” It entails navigating legal procedures, fees, and documents. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about marriage license fees in Florida, ensuring your journey to marital bliss begins on the right foot.
Introduction
Getting married is a joyous milestone, but it involves more than just planning the perfect ceremony. Before you walk down the aisle, you need a valid marriage license. This legal document not only formalizes your union but also ensures that you’re in compliance with Florida’s marriage laws.
Marriage Application Requirements
Age Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Florida, both applicants must be at least 18 years old. If one applicant is between 16 and 18 years old, a birth certificate and proof of identification are required, along with notarized consent from parents or guardians. Applicants under 16 must obtain approval from a County Court Judge.
Parental Consent
Applicants between 16 and 18 years old require parental or guardian consent. If you’re below 18, but at least 16, the court’s approval is necessary. A blood test is not required.
Blood Test and Fees
At the time of application, a fee of $93.50 is required. However, this fee can be reduced to $61.00 if both applicants complete a premarital course conducted by a registered provider. A printed copy of the premarital course completion certificate must be presented to receive the fee reduction.
Premarital Course Certificate
Completion of a premarital course by both applicants allows a fee reduction. This course should be conducted by a registered provider, and the certificate of completion should be presented when applying for the marriage license.
Marriage ID Requirements
Applicants need photo identification such as a driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or I-94 card. Social Security numbers are required, but the cards themselves are not.
Marriage Waiting Period
Florida Residents
Florida residents face a 3-day waiting period for marriage licenses unless they complete a 4-hour pre-marital course. Completion of the course waives the waiting period, and a $32.50 discount applies to the fee.
Non-Florida Residents
Non-residents do not have a waiting period, regardless of pre-marital counseling. Completing a premarital course within a year of application can lead to a $32.50 discount on the fee.
Marriage Residency Requirement
Florida residency is not necessary to obtain a marriage license in Nassau County.
Previous Marriages
Details of divorce or spouse’s death must be provided. Certified copies of relevant documents are required if these events occurred within the past 30 days.
Marriage Blood Test
No blood tests are required for marriage in Florida.
Marriage License Fees
The standard fee for a marriage license is $93.50, but it can be reduced to $61.00 with a premarital course certificate. Cash is the preferred payment method.
Marriage Preparation Course
Florida residents completing an approved marriage preparation course receive a $32.50 fee reduction and waiver of the 3-day waiting period. Non-residents who complete this course have the waiting period waived.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Florida.
Cousin Marriages
Florida permits first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are not recognized in Florida.
Marriage Age Requirements
Without parental consent, the legal marriage age is 18. With consent, it’s 16. For those under 16 with pregnancy certification, marriage is possible with parental consent and court approval.
Name Change After Marriage
While a marriage license can have your new name, it doesn’t automatically change it legally. An online marriage name change kit is recommended for the process.
Marriage Officiants
Ordained clergy, notary publics, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings.
Marriage Witnesses
Witnesses are not required in Florida.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
The marriage license is valid for 60 days from issuance, and the ceremony must occur within this period.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
For a copy of your marriage license certificate, contact the Department of Children and Families’ Division of Vital Statistics.
Conclusion
Navigating the intricacies of marriage license requirements and fees is an important part of planning your wedding. Understanding the legal aspects ensures a smooth journey towards a joyful union. Remember to verify all information with your local Nassau County Clerk’s Office to guarantee accuracy.
FAQs
Q1: How much is the marriage license fee in Florida? A1: The standard fee is $93.50, but it can be reduced to $61.00 with a premarital course completion certificate.
Q2: Is a blood test required to obtain a marriage license in Florida? A2: No, blood tests are not required for marriage licenses in Florida.
Q3: Can non-Florida residents receive a fee reduction for completing a premarital course? A3: Non-residents can receive a fee reduction by completing a premarital course, but the waiting period will still be waived.
Q4: Are proxy marriages allowed in Florida? A4: No, proxy marriages are not permitted in Florida.
Q5: How long is a Florida marriage license valid? A5: A marriage license in Florida is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
