So You Wanna Tie the Knot in the Sunshine State? How Much Will It Cost You?
Planning a wedding in Florida? Congratulations! You've got sunshine, beaches, and hopefully, not too many unexpected rain showers (fingers crossed!). But before you get swept away in the whirlwind of cake tastings and bridesmaid dress drama, there's a little administrative hurdle to jump over: the marriage license.
But fear not, lovebirds! Getting a marriage license in Florida is pretty straightforward. And the cost? Well, that depends on how much you value your time (and how good you are at navigating bureaucracy with a smile).
How Much Marriage License Florida |
The Straight-Up Price of Love in Florida
The base price for a Florida marriage license is $86.00. Ouch! That's a chunk of change that could be better spent on a fancy cocktail for your reception (priorities, people!).
But wait! There's a way to save some moolah (and maybe even some sanity).
The Hack for Happy Couples (and Those Who Like Saving Money)
Florida offers a discount on your marriage license if you're willing to put in a little extra effort. Buckle up, lovebirds, because here comes... premarital counseling!
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
Yes, you read that right. By taking a certified premarital course, you can slash the price of your marriage license down to $61.00. That's a sweet $25.00 savings. Think of all the pool floats you could buy with that!
Plus, premarital counseling can actually be a good thing. You might learn some communication skills that come in handy during those inevitable "who left the cap off the toothpaste?!" moments.
But hey, it's your call. If you're already communication rockstars and scoff at the idea of premarital advice, then the straight-up $86 is the way to go.
Important Side Note: The Waiting Game
There's also a three-day waiting period after you apply for your marriage license before you can actually say "I do." However, if you take that premarital course, you can waive the waiting period and get hitched whenever your heart desires (or your venue is available).
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Just remember: Don't get so caught up in saving money that you forget to book your officiant!
FAQ: Getting Hitched in Florida on a Budget
How to apply for a marriage license in Florida?
Head to your local county clerk's office. You can find their contact information online.
How long is a Florida marriage license valid for?
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
Six months! So don't procrastinate on that walk down the aisle.
Can I get married outside of Florida with a Florida marriage license?
Nope! Each state has its own rules. Check with the state where you want to get married for their requirements.
Do I need an appointment to get a marriage license in Florida?
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
It's recommended, but not always required. Check with your local clerk's office.
What documents do I need to get a marriage license in Florida?
Valid ID (driver's license, passport), Social Security numbers (but not the cards themselves), and proof of residency (if applicable).
So there you have it, lovebirds! With a little planning and maybe a crash course in communication, you can tie the knot in Florida without breaking the bank. Now get out there and soak up that sunshine (and maybe practice your first dance moves).