So You Want Proof You Didn't Dream Up That Beach Wedding in Hillsborough County? How to Get a Copy of Your Marriage License
Ah, Hillsborough County. Sunshine, beaches, maybe a touch of pirate history thrown in for good measure. But what if your swashbuckling romance blossomed into a full-fledged marriage there? And now, for whatever reason (renewing passports, impressing your skeptical mother-in-law), you need proof of that glorious union? Fear not, weary spouse-y mateys, for obtaining a copy of your Hillsborough County marriage license is easier than navigating a ship through a hurricane (hopefully your marriage is calmer than that!).
How To Get A Copy Of Marriage License In Hillsborough County Florida |
Avast, Ye Antiquarian Landlubbers! (For Marriages Before 1972)
If your love story unfolded before the digital age (think eight-track tapes and disco balls), then your treasure lies with the Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts' Official Records Library. shiver me timbers! That sounds official. But fear not, it's actually quite accessible, located at 419 Pierce Street, Room 140. You can set sail there in person to view and obtain a copy of your marriage license record.
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Important Note: These scurvy dogs don't charge a penny to just view the document, but if you want a certified copy to prove your wedded bliss, you'll need to cough up some doubloons (cash, check, money order, or credit card are all accepted).
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Setting Sail on the Digital High Seas! (For Marriages After 1972)
For those whose love story bloomed after the invention of the floppy disk (or at least the internet!), then rejoice! You can ditch the treasure map and seek your matrimonial booty online. The Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts offers an Online Search of Official Records. Just point your digital compass to their website, enter your married name at the time, and set the record type to "MAR."
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Here's the best part: Just like gazing at a beautiful sunset over the bay, viewing the document online is completely free! But if, like a pirate with a treasure chest, you need a certified copy, you can request it electronically through their eCertify for Official Records service, or by phone, mail, or in person.
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
Need a Sherpa to Guide You Through This? (Additional Options for Obtaining Your Marriage License Copy)
- Phone: For those who prefer a more personal touch, you can ring up the Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts at (813) 276-8100 and order your certified copy over the phone. Just be prepared to pay a small credit card processing fee if you choose that route.
- Mail: If you're feeling particularly old school, you can send a written request for a certified copy by mail. Be sure to include the names you were married under, the date of your marriage, and a check or money order made payable to "Clerk of the Circuit Court."
- In Person: Sometimes you just gotta see it to believe it (or maybe you just miss the courthouse air). You can always visit the Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts office in person to request and receive your certified copy on the same day.
Important Note: No matter your chosen method, you'll always need to provide some basic information like your names at the time of marriage, the date of your marriage, and a form of payment for certified copies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Newly-Licensed-License-Seekers:
How long does it take to get a certified copy of my marriage license?
In-person requests are the fastest - you walk in and walk out with your copy that same day. For other methods, processing times may vary, but generally it takes 2-3 business days.Can someone else request a copy of my marriage license?
Yes, but they'll need written authorization from you (and possibly a copy of your ID) to do so.What if my marriage took place outside of Hillsborough County?
Then you'll need to contact the clerk of courts in the county where your marriage was recorded.I lost my marriage license! Is there a way to get a replacement?
No worries, matey! A certified copy of your marriage license is just as valid as the original.Is there a deadline for obtaining a copy of my marriage license?
There's no expiration date on wedded bliss (or the need for proof thereof), so you can request a copy of your marriage license any time you need it.