Florida Marriage License

Florida Beach Wedding Marriage License Process

In order to get married on the beach in Florida, or anywhere else in Florida, you need to apply and receive a Florida marriage license, regardless of the state you reside in. This is the document that allows you to officially Tie the Knot under the law, and once married, your union will be recognized nationwide. Commitment ceremonies and vow renewals do not require licenses. Florida marriage licenses can be obtained in any Florida courthouse and will be valid for 60 days to be married anywhere in Florida. You can apply via Zoom,  or in person at the local Florida Clerk of Courts office.  

Florida Marriage License (Zoom Call)

Online Marriage License Website

  • New convenient Zoom process launched summer of 2023
  • Review the Zoom License Flyer for details (emailed by request)
  • Fee – same as appearing in person at the courthouse
  • The couple downloads and prints the license at home, brings it to the beach for the officiant to sign, and then returns the license to the Clerk’s office via mail.  

Florida Marriage License (Courthouse Visit)

Pinellas County Clerk of Court Website   727-464-4700

Sarasota Clerk of the Court Website 941-861-7400

  • Couple must apply together, in person. It is the couple’s responsibility to obtain license.
  • Both must provide a State issued photo ID and have social security numbers along.
  • Both must be 18 years of age, or parental consent will need to be completed.
  • No blood tests required.
  • Out of state residents have NO waiting period-Can be married the same day license is applied for.
  • FL residents have a 3 day waiting period OR a 4 hour counseling session.
  • If either party has divorced in past 6 months, copy of divorce decree is required.
  • Fee is $86 or reduced to $61 for FL residents who completed 4 hour course.
  • License is valid for 60 days to perform ceremony-so don’t apply too early!
  • Present your marriage license to the officiant prior to the ceremony.
  • After your ceremony, the officiant will sign the license and return it to you. You can then mail it back to the Clerk of the Court, and in approximately 30 days, you will receive a certified copy of your marriage license in the mail.  If you need a certified copy sooner than 30 days, you should return the signed license to the Clerk in person. 
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