Pinellas County
Marriage License Requirements

Marriage License Fees in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating the process of obtaining a marriage license can often be daunting, especially when considering the various fees and requirements that vary from state to state. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of marriage license fees in Florida, providing you with valuable information to ease your way through this important milestone in your life.

Understanding the Costs

Getting married is not only a celebration of love but also a legal commitment. As such, there are fees associated with obtaining a marriage license in Florida. Let’s break down the costs:

• $93.50 – Marriage License without Premarital Course Certificate: This is the standard fee for applying for a marriage license in Florida.
• $61.00 – Marriage License with Premarital Course Certificate: If you and your partner have completed a premarital course conducted by a registered premarital provider, you’re eligible for a reduced fee. This can be a significant saving, so it’s worth considering.

Where to Apply

To apply for a marriage license, you’ll need to visit one of the designated locations in Pinellas County, Florida. Here are the addresses and contact details for some of these locations:

• Clearwater Location: 315 Court Street, Room 150, Clearwater, FL 33756
  • Phone: 727.464.7000
  • Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. / Monday – Friday
• St. Petersburg Judicial Building: 545 1st Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
  • Phone: 727.464.7000
  • Fax: 727.582.7874
  • Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. / Monday – Friday
• N. County Branch Office: 29582 U.S. 19 North, Clearwater, FL 33761
  • Phone: 727.464.5150
  • Fax: 727.453.3423
  • Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. / Tuesday
• Tyrone Branch Office: 1800 66th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33710
  • Phone: 727.464.7000
  • Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. / Monday – Friday

Eligibility and Requirements

To complete your application for a marriage license, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria and provide specific documents:

• Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply without parental consent.
• If either applicant is between 16 and 18 years old, they need to provide a birth certificate, proof of identification, and notarized written consent from parents or a guardian.
• Applicants under 16 years old require approval from a County Court Judge.
• Blood tests are not required for obtaining a marriage license in Florida.

Additional Details

• Both parties need to provide their Social Security numbers, although the physical cards are not necessary.
• If either party has been previously married, information about the divorce or spouse’s death, along with relevant documentation, is required.
• Florida residents can enjoy a 3-day waiting period waiver if they attend a 4-hour pre-marital course.
• Non-residents of Florida may also receive a $32.50 discount on their marriage license fee if they complete an accepted premarital course.
• The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, and the ceremony must be performed within this period.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license is an essential step in your journey towards wedded bliss. By understanding the fees, requirements, and processes involved, you can navigate this process with ease. Remember to plan ahead, gather the necessary documentation, and consider enrolling in a premarital course to avail of potential discounts. Congratulations on embarking on this exciting chapter of your life!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do we need to provide a blood test to obtain a marriage license in Florida? No, blood tests are not required to obtain a marriage license in Florida.
2. Can we get a discount on the marriage license fee in Florida? Yes, Florida residents who complete a premarital course may receive a $32.50 discount on their marriage license fee.
3. How long is the waiting period for Florida residents to get married? Florida residents have a 3-day waiting period unless they complete a 4-hour pre-marital course, which waives the waiting period.
4. Can non-residents of Florida also avail of the premarital course discount? Yes, non-residents can receive the discount on their marriage license fee by completing an approved premarital course.
5. How long is the marriage license valid in Florida? A marriage license in Florida is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. The marriage ceremony must be conducted within this period.