So You Wanna Get Hitched in Florida, Huh? Age Ain't Nothing But a Number (Except When It Comes to Marriage)
Love is in the air, sunshine state style! You've found your lobster, your soulmate, your other half (or maybe just the other half of your perfect pizza order). But before you say "I do" under the palm trees, there's a little hurdle to jump over: age.
 |
| How Old Do You Have To Be To Get Married In Florida |
The Big Enchilada: 18 is the Magic Number (Usually)
In Florida, if you want to waltz down the aisle without any parental permission shenanigans, you gotta be 18 years old. That's the legal drinking age, the age you can finally ditch carpool duty, and, most importantly, the age you can officially tie the knot.
But wait! There's more!
Teenage Dream? Not Quite: The Parental Permission Twist
Florida used to be a bit more lax on the age thing. Back in the day (like, a year ago), 16-year-olds could get married with the written consent of both parents. Now, things have gotten a touch stricter. As of recently, you gotta be at least 17 years old to even think about getting married, even with your parents' blessing.
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
Why the Change of Heart, Florida?
Let's just say they're looking out for you lovebirds (and maybe protecting you from some potentially hasty decisions).
So, You're 17 and Dying to Get Married? Buckle Up, Grasshopper
Even if your folks are on board with the whole early marriage thing, there are a few extra hoops to jump through if you're under 18. You'll need to take a premarital preparation course (think of it as marriage boot camp for youngsters).
Bonus Round: Fun Facts That Won't Help You Get Married But Are Interesting Anyway
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
- Did you know Florida has more miles of coastline than any other state in the US? That's a lot of beach for wedding photos!
- Key Lime Pie is the official state pie of Florida. Maybe incorporate it into your reception menu?
FAQ: Getting Hitched in the Sunshine State (The How-To Edition)
How to find out the exact requirements for getting married in Florida?
Check out the official website of the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers https://www.stateofflorida.com/getting-married-in-florida/
 |
How to apply for a marriage license in Florida?
Tip: Slow down at important lists or bullet points.
The same website (mentioned above) has all the info you need!
How long does it take to get a marriage license in Florida?
There's usually a three-day waiting period after you apply.
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
How much does a marriage license cost in Florida?
The fee varies by county, but it's typically around $90.
How to elope in Florida?
While Florida doesn't require a fancy ceremony, you'll still need to get a marriage license and have an officiant perform the marriage. But hey, at least you can elope on the beach!
 |
