Instructions on Getting Your Marriage License in the Florida Keys

florida keys marriage license

Photo by Ivan Apfel Photography

Though it may not be the dreamiest detail, knowing how to get your marriage license in the Florida Keys may just be the most important. When planning a destination wedding, there are many things to consider. As wedding planners, the process of the marriage license always comes up as one of the last things considered.

Brides and grooms wonder, “Wait, if we get our marriage license in Florida, will it be valid where we live? Where do we get it? What do I need when I go to get it?” Below are answers to these common questions to help put your mind at ease.

Locations to Obtain Your Marriage License in the Florida Keys:

Clerk of Court
88820 Overseas Highway (MM 88.5)
Plantation Key, Florida 33070
305-852-7145

Marathon Branch Court House
3117 Overseas Highway (MM48.5)
Marathon, Florida 33050
305 289 6027

Key West Court House
500 Whitehead Street
Key West, Florida 33040
305 292 3458

Important Notes on Obtaining Your Marriage License in the Florida Keys

  • There is a three day waiting period for Florida Keys residents from the day you get your marriage license to the day of your ceremony. If you take a premarital course of a minimum of 4 hours, you can have this waiting period waived. This does not apply to non-residents.
  • The cost is $86.00.
  • You each need to bring a valid government ID.
  • If you have been married before, you need to being your previous divorce papers with you.
  • After the official wedding day, the person who performed the ceremony must return the license within ten days to the marriage license section. It will then be recorded in the Official Records. Until that license is received, there is no record of the marriage. After such recording, a certified copy will be returned to the newlyweds by mail. The original license is sent to the OFFICE OF VITAL STATISTICS in Jacksonville. The process takes approximately three weeks.

Now that you know the details of how to get a marriage license in the Florida Keys, we do suggest you get familiar with the location if you come down for a planning meeting. Drive by and stop in so you are 100% familiar with the location. It makes you that much more confident on the day you need to apply.

Congratulations! You are making it officially official! Contact us for more helpful local knowledge about getting married in the fabulous Florida Keys.

XOXO,

Florida Keys wedding planner