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Do you need to Solemnize your Matrimony? Get Married in Florida!

loveFlorida is one of only three states (the other two are South Carolina and Maine) who authorize their notaries public to “solemnize the rites of matrimony.” §117.045, Florida Statutes. The Florida notary may perform a marriage ceremony providing the couple first obtain a marriage license from an authorized Florida official and may only perform such ceremony within the geographical boundaries of Florida. Thus, a Florida notary could not perform a marriage ceremony in another state. Additionally, a notary from another state, including South Carolina and Maine, could not perform a marriage ceremony in Florida. And, a Florida notary may not marry a couple who has obtained a marriage license from another state.

Getting married in South Florida? Call or text Justice of the Peace 954-866-5056

What are the requirements for under-aged marriage license applicants?

Any applicant under the age of eighteen (18) must have the consent of both parents or guardian. If custody of such minor has been granted to one parent, original proof must be provided. You may obtain consent forms from this office. If one parent is deceased, a certified copy of the death certificate is required. Proof of age and parents identity is required. This may be done with a certified copy of the person’s birth certificate. If the parent’s names do not match, additional proof may be required.

What types of required proof of identification are accepted to apply for a marriage license?

There are two (2) forms of identification that are required.

  1. The first form of identification required is a valid photo identification issued by the federal or state government. The photo identification must have the correct legal name, date of birth and signature of the applicant.The following types of photo identifications are accepted:
    • Driver’s License (U.S. State or Government)
    • Passport
    • U.S. Military identification
    • State Identification Card (U.S. State or Government)
    • Alien Registration Card
  2. A second form of identification is required if the applicant has been issued a U.S. Social Security number. In accordance with Florida State Statute, any person who has been issued a Social Security number shall provide that number. Any person who is not a citizen of the U.S. may provide either a Social Security number or an Alien Registration number, if one has been issued. If neither has been issued, another form of ID may be required.

Applicants will be required to provide one stamped, self-addressed business size envelope for the return of their certified copy after the certificate has been recorded. This may be purchased at the marriage counter for $1.00.

There are no blood tests required.

You do not need to be a resident of this county or the State of Florida to obtain a Marriage license. Marriage licenses are for use within the State for sixty-60 days from the date of issue.

If previously married, the exact date of death, divorce or annulment of the last marriage is required.

Per Senate Bill 694, all applicants must complete the form titled STATE OF FLORIDA AFFIRMATION OF COMMON CHILD/CHILDREN BORN IN FLORIDA. The information required to complete this form is the name, date of birth, birth certificate number (if known), and place of birth for each child the applicant(s) is the parent of.

What are the marriage license fees and waiting period?

The standard marriage license fee is $93.50 and includes a 3-day waiting period before a marriage ceremony can be performed.

The only exceptions to the 3-day waiting period are:

    • If both applicants reside out-of-state and are able to present valid proof of photo identification indicating their out-of-state address at the time of filing the marriage license application. (Please call our office for other acceptable proof.)
    • If the applicants present an original pre-marital course completion certificate at the time of filing the marriage license application.

NOTE: If the couple elects the option to attend a pre-marital course from a registered provider, the marriage license fee is lowered to $61.00 and the waiting period is waived upon providing an original certificate of completion at the time of filing the application.

Prior to obtaining a marriage license, both parties must sign an affidavit indicating they have read the Family Law Handbook.

NOTE: Adobe Acrobat Reader Software is required to view the Family Law Handbook.

Click here to download a free copy of the Adobe Acrobat Reader software. This is a one-time process. Installation and browser configuration instructions are provided by Adobe Acrobat.

A Civil Marriage ceremony can be performed at your location anywhere  in Broward County.  Call or text 954-866-5056 to schedule your day.  No witnesses are required for a Civil Marriage ceremony, however they are recommended.