When is it time to apply?
Congratulations on your engagement and upcoming wedding. This is an exciting time for you, and we are sure you are looking forward to the big day. We often get asked by couples when the right time is to apply for our Florida marriage license, either in person or by mail. The answer is not always the same, and some factors need to be considered.
I am applying in person at the Clerk of Court
This is a great option for couples living in Florida or those who arrive at least one weekday ahead of their planned wedding date. But there are a few differences in how much time should be calculated.
- You, your partner, or both of you are Florida residents. Be aware that there is a three day waiting period before your Florida marriage license will be valid. The Clerk of Court will issue your license, and you can take it with you the same day, but it will not be effective until the three-day waiting period is over. The waiting period for Florida residents can be waived by the Clerk if you have completed a state-approved premarital counseling and can provide proof of it. Our recommendation is to apply for your license at least two weeks before the wedding is planned.
- You both do not reside in Florida. You can apply for your marriage license without a waiting period. The license is valid immediately, which means you could get married the same day. Doing things at the last minute is sometimes unavoidable, but we recommend getting your license at least a few working days before your wedding date. This will give you some peace of mind and wiggle room should something unexpected happen.
How long is the license valid?
Your marriage license is valid for 60 days and will expire after that. If you do things rather sooner than later, keep that in mind. If you don’t get married within that timeframe, you will have to apply and pay for a new license. The Clerk of Court will not refund any payments.
I am applying for a Florida marriage license by mail
You can apply for your marriage license by mail 60 days or longer before your wedding date. Why? We will hold on to your application until it is time to file. We process the pre-license for notarization approximately one month before your wedding date if you live in the US. Customers who live overseas need extra time for the filing. On average, we start the filing of your license 45 days before your departure or wedding date.
There are some exceptions and circumstances where we may have to start the actual filing process earlier. Applying for your Florida marriage license by mail early is not only more cost-effective, but also provides extra time that might be needed to complete your license. For couples who ran out of time, we also offer express filing. Since the Florida marriage license by mail is the same as if you apply in person, the expiration date is also 60 days after the effective date.
What is required to file for a Florida marriage license by mail? The answer you find on our Requirements page.
