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How To Get A Marriage License In Duval County, Florida: The Ultimate Guide

Hertzler April 25, 2025

So you're ready to tie the knot and start your happily ever after in Duval County, Florida? Congratulations! But hold up—before you say "I do," there's one crucial step: getting your marriage license. This little piece of paper is the key to making your union official, so let's dive into everything you need to know.

Getting married is one of life's biggest milestones, and while the romance is all about love and commitment, the legal side requires a bit of planning. In Duval County, Florida, the process for obtaining a marriage license is straightforward, but it's packed with details you don't want to miss. We're here to guide you through every step, so you can focus on the fun stuff—like picking out your wedding rings.

Whether you're a local or just visiting Jacksonville for your big day, understanding the ins and outs of the marriage license process will save you time, stress, and maybe even a few bucks. Let's break it down so you can check this task off your to-do list with ease.

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Where to Apply for a Marriage License in Duval County

The first stop on your journey to marital bliss is the Duval County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller's Office. This is where all the magic happens—well, the bureaucratic magic, at least. You'll need to visit their office in person to apply for your license, so make sure both partners are ready to roll.

Here's the address you'll want to jot down:
Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller
501 West Adams Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202

Pro tip: Call ahead or check their website to confirm office hours, especially if you're planning your visit around a busy weekend or holiday. You don't want to show up only to find the doors locked!

What to Bring When Applying

Now that you know where to go, let's talk about what to bring. Think of it like packing for a mini-adventure—you don't want to leave anything important behind. Here's a quick list of essentials:

Valid identification for both partners (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
Social Security numbers
Proof of age (birth certificates are ideal)
Divorce decrees or death certificates if either partner was previously married
Cash or check for the application fee

Remember, the more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be. No one wants to get turned away because they forgot their ID or left their wallet at home.

Marriage License Fees in Duval County

Alright, let's talk money. The fee for a marriage license in Duval County is $61 if you don't complete a premarital course. But here's a little secret: if you take the course, you can save $30, bringing the total cost down to $31. Not too shabby, right?

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Premarital counseling courses are typically available online or in person and usually take about four hours to complete. It's a small investment of time and money that could pay off big in the long run. Plus, who doesn't love a good bargain?

Payment Methods

When it comes to paying for your marriage license, cash and checks are your best bets. Credit cards might be accepted, but it's always good to double-check before you go. And hey, if you're looking for an excuse to carry cash in this digital age, this is it!

Waiting Period and Residency Requirements

Here's where things get a little tricky. In Florida, there's normally a 3-day waiting period between applying for your marriage license and getting hitched. But guess what? If you complete that premarital course we mentioned earlier, you can waive the waiting period entirely. Yes, you read that right—take the course, and you're good to go as soon as you get the license.

Another perk? There are no residency requirements in Florida. That means whether you're a local or just visiting, you can apply for and use your marriage license in Duval County. It's like an open invitation to destination weddings everywhere!

Expiration Date

Once you've got your marriage license in hand, you've got 60 days to use it before it expires. That gives you plenty of time to plan your big day, but don't wait too long or you'll have to start the process all over again. No one wants to deal with that kind of paperwork twice!

Who Can Perform the Ceremony?

Now that you've got your license, it's time to think about who's going to officiate your wedding. In Florida, the following individuals are authorized to perform marriage ceremonies:

Ordained ministers or religious officials
Clergy members
County judges
Justices of the peace

If you're planning a non-traditional ceremony, don't worry—you can still make it official. Many people choose to become ordained online specifically for the purpose of marrying friends or family members. Just make sure the officiant is properly registered with the state to avoid any legal hiccups.

Do You Need Witnesses?

Technically, no, you don't need witnesses to get married in Florida. But let's be real—what's a wedding without a few trusted friends or family members by your side? Even if it's just a small, intimate ceremony, having someone there to share the moment can make all the difference.

Common Questions About Marriage Licenses in Duval County

We've covered the basics, but let's tackle some of the most common questions people have about getting married in Duval County:

Can You Get Married Without a Marriage License?

Short answer: Nope. A marriage license is the legal document that makes your union official. Without it, your marriage isn't legally recognized. So don't skip this step, no matter how spontaneous you're feeling.

Can You Get Married on the Same Day You Get Your License?

Yes, but only if you've completed the premarital counseling course. Otherwise, you'll need to wait the standard 3 days. It's a small price to pay for the convenience of an immediate ceremony.

What Happens If We Lose Our Marriage License?

Don't panic! If you lose your marriage license, you can request a certified copy from the Clerk's Office. It might take a little extra time and effort, but it's not the end of the world. Just another reminder to keep important documents in a safe place.

Planning Your Big Day in Duval County

Now that you've got the legal stuff squared away, it's time to start planning the fun part—your wedding day! Duval County, with its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture, offers endless possibilities for creating unforgettable memories.

From intimate beachside ceremonies to grand receptions in downtown Jacksonville, the options are as diverse as the couples who choose to get married here. And with so many talented vendors and venues to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your vision.

Tips for Planning a Stress-Free Wedding

Here are a few tips to help you plan a stress-free wedding in Duval County:

Set a budget and stick to it
Create a timeline for major decisions
Hire a local wedding planner if needed
Book your venue and vendors early
Communicate openly with your partner

Remember, the goal is to celebrate your love and commitment, not to stress over every little detail. Keep things in perspective, and you'll be just fine.

Legalizing Your Marriage After the Ceremony

Once the ceremony is over, there's one final step to make your marriage official: getting the marriage license signed and returned to the Clerk's Office. This is usually handled by your officiant, but it's always a good idea to follow up and make sure everything is in order.

Once the license is recorded, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document is essential for changing your name, updating legal documents, and accessing benefits as a married couple.

Changing Your Name After Marriage

Many newlyweds choose to change their last name after marriage. If you're one of them, here's what you'll need to do:

Obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate
Update your Social Security card
Change your name on your driver's license
Notify employers, banks, and other relevant parties

It might seem like a lot, but updating your name is a small price to pay for the joy of starting your new life together.

Conclusion

Getting a marriage license in Duval County, Florida, doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little preparation and the right information, you can breeze through the process and focus on what really matters—celebrating your love.

Remember to:

Visit the Clerk's Office in person to apply
Bring all required documents and identification
Consider taking the premarital course for savings and convenience
Plan your ceremony and enjoy the moment
Legalize your marriage by returning the signed license

So go ahead, take that next step toward your happily ever after. And when you do, don't forget to share your story with us in the comments below. We'd love to hear about your big day!