📅 2026 Update: Current Marriage Laws in Florida

Since the original article was written, there have been no significant changes in marriage laws or procedures in Florida from 2024 to 2026. The overall process for obtaining a marriage license and certificate remains the same. Readers can find additional information and details in the earlier parts of the article below.

📝 Current Marriage License Fees

In Florida, marriage license fees vary by county. Couples interested in getting married should contact their local county clerk's office for the exact amount. This is consistent with many states where fees depend on local regulations.

📃 Obtaining Marriage Certificates

Couples can obtain certified copies of their marriage certificates from the county clerk's office where the marriage license was issued. Similar to marriage license fees, the cost for obtaining a marriage certificate will vary depending on the specific county involved.

⏳ Processing Times for Licenses and Certificates

Processing times for marriage licenses in Florida can vary. Some counties may issue licenses immediately, while others may have a waiting period. After the wedding, the officiant will file the marriage license, and the processing time for the marriage certificate can differ by county.

📅 Validity of Marriage Licenses

Marriage licenses in Florida are typically valid for 30 to 90 days. Couples should be aware of this timeframe to plan their wedding accordingly. It's important to check local rules to avoid any issues.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • Fees for marriage licenses and certificates vary by county in Florida.
  • Couples can obtain certified copies of marriage certificates from local offices.
  • Processing times for licenses and certificates can differ by county.
  • Marriage licenses are valid for 30 to 90 days.

💡 Tips for Navigating Marriage in Florida

Reviewing your situation with an attorney can help clear up any questions you may have about marriage laws.

📑 Understand Local Requirements

Each county in Florida may have different requirements for marriage licenses. It's wise to check with the local clerk's office for specific rules and necessary documents.

📅 Plan for Processing Times

Be mindful of processing times for marriage licenses and certificates. Knowing how long it takes can help you plan your wedding date without any surprises.

🏷️ Gather Required Documents

Before applying for a marriage license, make sure you have all necessary documentation. This usually includes valid identification and personal information, which can speed up the application process.

💵 Budget for Fees

Marriage license and certificate fees can vary, so budget accordingly. Contact your county clerk's office for the most accurate fee information to avoid unexpected costs.

📝 Keep Copies of Important Documents

After your marriage, obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate. These copies may be necessary for name changes and legal matters in the future.

🏆 Marriage Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section reviews services related to marriage, focusing on user ratings and overall satisfaction. The rankings are based on Trustpilot data from October 2026. Keep in mind that star ratings are just one indicator of quality, as unhappy customers often leave more reviews.

🥇 1. VirtualMarriage

VirtualMarriage has a Trustpilot score of 4.9. It has been known for offering online marriage services that prioritize customer satisfaction. Users appreciate the convenience of accessing these services online.

However, it's important to note that VirtualMarriage tends to have higher pricing compared to competitors.

🆓 Free Government Help

State and county websites provide free information on marriage licenses and requirements. Legal aid organizations may also offer assistance in navigating marriage laws and obtaining necessary documents.

🔎 Factors to Compare When Choosing a Service

  • 💰 Cost of services
  • ⭐ Trustpilot ratings and reviews
  • 📄 Range of services offered
  • ⚙️ Ease of use of the platform

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

💍 What do I need to apply for a marriage license in Florida?

Couples must complete a marriage license application and provide valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, along with personal information.

⏳ Is there a waiting period for marriage licenses in Florida?

Yes, some counties in Florida may impose a waiting period between the application and the issuance of a marriage license, typically ranging from 1 to 6 days.

📃 How do I obtain a certified copy of my marriage certificate?

Certified copies can be obtained from the county clerk's office where the marriage license was issued. Be prepared to pay the relevant fees, which vary by county.

🔄 Can I change my name after getting married?

Yes, a marriage certificate is required to legally change your name on various documents, such as driver's licenses and social security records.

🏷️ How long is a marriage license valid in Florida?

Marriage licenses in Florida are generally valid for a period of 30 to 90 days, depending on the county. Check with your local clerk's office for specific information.

👩‍❤️‍👨 Are same-sex marriages recognized in Florida?

Yes, same-sex marriages are legal in Florida following the Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015. This ruling allows same-sex couples to enjoy the same legal rights as opposite-sex couples.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Marriage

Recent court rulings can have an impact on marriage laws and procedures. These rulings may address issues such as marriage rights and legal definitions.

For more recent rulings, feel free to check out more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Marriage Certificate Florida: A Comprehensive Guide


Marriage is an important milestone in one’s life, and it is no different in Florida. When you are ready to say “I do”, you need to obtain your Marriage Certificate Florida. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Marriage Certificate Florida.

What is a Marriage Certificate?


A marriage certificate is a legal document that proves a marriage has taken place. It includes details about the couple who has married, such as their names, ages, and addresses. It also includes the date and location of the marriage ceremony.

In Florida, the Department of Health is responsible for issuing marriage certificates. They are the only organization authorized to do so. The department keeps records of marriages and divorces that take place in the state.

What are the Requirements for Getting a Marriage Certificate in Florida?


To obtain a marriage certificate in Florida, you have to fulfill certain requirements. They are:

1. Age: Both parties must be 18 years old or older. If one or both of the parties is under 18, they must have a court order. The court order is required for the minor’s parent’s consent.

2. Identification: You must provide a valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or state identification card. Only a US driver’s license, US passport, or Valid Military ID card is accepted for non-US citizens.

3. Residency: There are no residency requirements for getting married in Florida.

4. Waiting period: The state of Florida has a 3-day waiting period after the application for a marriage license is submitted.

5. Application fee: The fee for the application for a marriage license is $93.50.

6. Blood Tests: There are no blood tests required.

7. Divorce Papers: If either party has been divorced within the past six months, then they must present their divorce papers to obtain a marriage certificate.

8. Translation: If the name or any other information on the identification is in any language other than English, the document must be translated.

How to Apply for a Marriage Certificate in Florida?


You can apply for a marriage certificate in Florida in person or online.

In-person Application

To apply in-person, you will need to visit the Clerk of Courts in the county where you plan to get married. The following are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Complete the application form

Both parties must be present when applying for the marriage certificate. You have to complete the application form, which you can obtain from the Clerk of Courts. You will also need to provide identification.

Step 2: Pay the fee

There is a fee of $93.50 to apply for a marriage certificate. Make sure to bring along the fees and have a check or cash with you since most courthouses may not accept credit cards.

Step 3: Wait for the Certificate

When the application is completed and submitted, there is a three-day waiting period before the certificate can be issued. You must return within 60 days for the Certificate after the waiting period.

Online Application

You can also apply for a marriage certificate online through the Florida Clerk of Courts. The following are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Go to the website

Visit the Florida Clerk of Courts website and click on the marriage certificate link.

Step 2: Fill out the online application form

Complete the online application form as required. Both parties will have to provide personal information.

Step 3: Pay the fee

You will be required to pay the $93.50 application fee using a credit card.

Step 4: Delivery Options

After submitting the application and paying the requisite fee, your certificate will be mailed to you, or you can pick it up at the clerk’s office.

How Long is a Marriage Certificate Valid in Florida?


Marriage certificates are valid in Florida for 60 days after the date of issuance. This means that the couple must get married within 60 days of obtaining the marriage license. After this period, the license becomes invalid, and the couple will have to apply for a new one.

What Happens if the Marriage Certificate is Lost or Damaged?


If you have lost or damaged your marriage certificate in Florida, you can obtain a new one from the Clerk of Courts in the county where the marriage took place. The following are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Fill out the application form

You will need to fill out the application form, which you can obtain from the Clerk of Courts. You will need to provide details such as the names of the parties, the date of the marriage, and any other relevant information.

Step 2: Pay the fee

There is a fee of $7.00 for a replacement marriage certificate. The fee has to be paid before your certificate can be issued.

Step 3: Wait for the Certificate

When the application is completed and submitted, the certificate will be issued within 2 to 3 weeks.

Conclusion


A marriage certificate is an essential document that proves that two individuals have legally consecrated their relationship. In the state of Florida, obtaining a Marriage Certificate is a straightforward process that requires fulfilling specific requirements. Whether you decide to apply in person or online, the steps are easy to follow, and you can have your marriage certificate within days. If you lose or damage your certificate, it can be replaced easily through the Clerk of Courts office. With this comprehensive guide, you should feel confident about obtaining your Marriage Certificate Florida.



 

Guide to Getting a Marriage Certificate in Florida


If you have gotten married in Florida, you may wonder how to apply for your marriage certificate in FL or how to get copies later on for your records or legal proceedings.  This guide can teach you how to obtain a copy of your marriage certificate in Florida whether you have just been married with a Florida marriage license or whether you are looking for documentation of a present or past marriage.

Initial Applicants


When you are married, you will need to obtain a Florida marriage license before you can be given a marriage certificate in FL.  Your marriage license will be given to the Clerk of the Court, who will file and record it in the county courthouse where the marriage took place.  After the clerk files a copy, he or she will send it to the state Department of Health, which maintains your marriage certificate in Florida at the state level.  The process of having the license sent and recorded by the state can take up to 60 days, so it can be difficult to obtain a marriage certificate until these 60 days have passed.  If you need proof of your marriage to show a court, you may have to contact the County Clerk in the county where the marriage took place in to get your initial marriage certificate in FL.

Getting a Copy


If you are seeking a copy of a marriage certificate in Florida for any marriage that took place after June 6, 1927, you can ask the state of Florida's Department of Health to give you a copy.  You can find an application for obtaining a copy of a marriage certificate in FL.  The form is available in several languages.

You may also seek a commemorative certification in addition to a computer generated certification, if you wish to display your marriage certificate from Florida as a piece of personal memorabilia.  A commemorative marriage certificate in Florida is signed by the current governor of Florida, as well as the State Registrar of Vital Statistics.  Instead of a computer printout, these certificates have calligraphy fonts and a gold state seal.  While a regular copy of a marriage certificate costs only four dollars, the commemorative certificates are $30.  To find a marriage certificate in FL from before June 6, 1927 will require you to make a request from your county clerk.

Who is Eligible To Get a Copy?


While a marriage may seem like a private ceremony, a marriage certificate in Florida is a public record, and may be ordered by anyone who wants to see the legal record of a marriage, whether or not they are a family member.  Anyone can order a marriage certificate in FL for any marriage that took place in the state.  If you are not sure what year a marriage took place in, you may include a range of dates in your search request.  A $2 search fee applies for every year that must be searched for the marriage certificate in Florida.
Marriage Certificate Florida