So You're Tying the Knot (or Hitting the Hitch!) in Miami Dade County: How to Get Your Marriage License Without the Miami Vice
Congratulations, lovebirds! You've decided to take the plunge and get married in the sunshine state. But before you can say "I do" under the palm trees, there's a little administrative hurdle to jump: the marriage license. Fear not, weary fiancé(e)s! This guide will help you navigate the process smoother than a dolphin through a tourist trap.
Pre-License Prep: Don't Be a Tourist, Do Your Homework
First things first, folks. Both of you need to complete the online pre-application [Miami Dade County Clerk of the Courts]. Don't worry, it's not the SATs. Think of it as a fun pre-marital quiz (though hopefully your answers won't lead to fights!). Print out the confirmation page - that's your golden ticket to getting hitched.
The Big Day (At the Clerk's Office, Not the Beach)
Alright, so the pre-app is done. Now it's time to visit the lovely folks at the Miami-Dade County Clerk's Office. They're open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm.
Here's what you need to pack for your adventure:
- Valid photo ID for each of you: Think driver's licenses, passports, the whole shebang. (No showing up with your high school ID, even if that picture does make you look way cooler).
- Social Security numbers: Don't worry, they're not going to steal your identity and elope to Cancun. It's just a formality.
- The completed (and printed) pre-application: Remember that golden ticket? This is where you use it.
- The fee: It's either $86 or $61 depending on if you completed a pre-marital course (good on you for being proactive!). They only accept cash, cashier's checks, or credit cards (no bartering with seashells, sorry).
Bonus Tip: Walk-ins are welcome, but you might end up waiting in line longer than for a cafecito at Versailles. To avoid that Florida sun, schedule an appointment online [Miami Dade County Clerk of the Courts] beforehand.
Congratulations! You're Licensed to Wed!
Once you've navigated the paperwork jungle, you'll walk out with your official marriage license. Now you can finally get to the fun part: planning the wedding, arguing over guest lists with your families (just kidding... mostly), and picking out the perfect shade of turquoise for your bridesmaids' dresses (because Miami).
FAQs for the Frustrated Fiancé(e):
How to schedule an appointment for the marriage license?
Head over to the Miami-Dade County Clerk of the Courts website [Miami Dade County Clerk of the Courts] and look for the "Schedule, Change & Cancel Appointments" section.
How long is the marriage license valid for?
The good news? You have 90 days to use your marriage license. Plenty of time to plan that dream beach wedding!
Can we get married outside of Miami-Dade County with a license from here?
Absolutely! A Florida marriage license is good anywhere in the sunshine state.
What if one of us is under 18?
There are some extra steps involved for minors. Best to check with the Clerk's Office directly for details.
Do we need a blood test?
Nope! Florida doesn't require blood tests for marriage licenses.
