Posted on August 16th, 2024. 

In the midst of all the excitement and anticipation surrounding your upcoming wedding, it's important to have a clear view of the legal requirements to guarantee a smooth journey to your big day. Florida's marriage laws have specific intricacies that must be navigated, especially for younger couples. 

By staying informed and prepared, you can focus on the joyful aspects of wedding planning. For instance, there is a waiting period for obtaining a marriage license, which can be used to finalize details and calm pre-wedding nerves. Completing a state-approved premarital course can expedite this process and provide valuable insights for your relationship. 

Non-residents are exempt from the waiting period, allowing for more flexibility in their planning timeline. With a valid marriage license for 60 days, there is plenty of time to coordinate all the details and avoid any last-minute scrambling. 

By understanding and adhering to these timelines, you can ensure that your focus remains on the unique and beautiful aspects of your special day, rather than on paperwork. 

The Basics of Getting Married in Florida 

The first step to getting married in Florida involves meeting basic age requirements. If an individual is at least 18 years old, they are legally allowed to marry without needing parental consent. However, if the soon-to-be spouse is 17, they can still tie the knot under certain conditions: they must have a written, notarized consent from both parents or a legal guardian. 

Moreover, the older party must not be more than two years older than the 17-year-old. These regulations guarantee that marriages are entered into judiciously and responsibly. It's important to have all necessary documentation sorted well in advance to avoid any last-minute hitches. 

When it comes to the waiting period for getting married in Florida, think of it as a short period to finalize those last-minute details. For residents, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period between applying for a marriage license and actually getting married. 

If both partners have completed a state-approved premarital course, this waiting period is waived, providing an expedited path to the altar. The course not only helps speed things up but also equips couples for their future together. 

For non-Florida residents, there's a bit of good news: they can rejoice because the waiting period does not apply to them. Regardless of residency, the license itself is valid for 60 days from the issuance date, giving plenty of time to plan your special day. Avoid scrambling at the last minute by charting out your timeline appropriately. 

Beyond age and waiting period requirements, it's imperative to consider consent, especially for younger individuals. If you're under 18, the consent of parents or a legal guardian becomes indispensable. Not only should this consent be written, but it must also be notarized to uphold its legal validity. 

This process ensures the solemnity and earnestness of the commitment. Furthermore, the marriage license application necessitates valid identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID, to verify age and residency. Be prepared to present social security numbers, although the card itself isn't required.  

Steps to Get Married in Florida 

Once you have the age and documentation requirements sorted, the next step to get married in Florida is obtaining your marriage license. This process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. 

Both individuals must appear in person at the county Clerk of Court’s office to apply together. It doesn’t matter where in Florida you are getting married—the license is valid statewide. You’ll need to provide valid identification and pay a fee, which can vary by county but typically hovers around $93.50. 

If you’ve taken the state-approved premarital course, you may be eligible for a discount on this fee. The course itself is a great investment, providing you and your partner with valuable insights and tools for a strong marital foundation. 

From here, choosing your officiant becomes the spotlight. Florida is quite accommodating when it comes to who can officiate your wedding, giving you ample flexibility. Your options include using a notary public, a judge, or an ordained religious officiant. 

Finally, once your officiant is chosen, it’s time to dive into planning the ceremony itself. Whether you’re drawn to a beach wedding on Fort Myers Beach, a garden setting in Naples, or a cozy indoor venue in Bonita Springs, the Treasure Coast offers a myriad of picturesque locations to say your vows. 

Make sure you scout multiple venues well in advance to find the one that captures your vision. After deciding on the venue, consider reaching out to local vendors for decorations, photography, and catering. Don’t forget to confirm your officiant’s availability for the chosen date, as they’ll need to coordinate with you to finalize the ceremony’s details. 

Related: https://pridenotaryandweddings.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-perfect-venue-for-your-wedding-ceremony 

Final Words 

As you prepare for your wedding day, every step brings you closer to a celebration that reflects your love and commitment. From ensuring that all documentation is accurately sorted to choosing a picturesque venue along the Treasure Coast, meticulous planning can make your special day flawless. 

Don’t forget the significant role your officiant will play in your ceremony; they are pivotal in setting the tone and personalizing the experience to suit your unique narrative. Having an ordained officiant who understands your vision and story can elevate the entire experience, making the ceremony not just a formality, but a deeply personal celebration. 

At Pride Notary & Wedding Services, we specialize in ceremonies tailored to each couple's narrative, and we bring that same care and attention to ensuring your venue is just as bespoke. We offer a range of personalized ceremonies, from intimate “married in a minute” options to elaborate rituals like hand blessings and sand ceremonies, always focusing on your story and preferences. 

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or give us a call at +1 (863) 449 3909. We're here to make the planning process as smooth and rewarding as possible, offering professional insights and services tailored to your needs.