Do I need a witness to get married at the courthouse in Florida?
Asked by: scraper | Last update: July 27, 2026Score: 0/5 (0 votes)
No, you do not need witnesses to get married in a Florida courthouse. Florida law does not require witnesses for a marriage ceremony, including civil ceremonies performed at a clerk of courts office. While some official forms may have optional spaces for witness signatures, they are not legally mandated.
Do you need a witness for a courthouse wedding in Florida?
No witnesses are required for a Civil Marriage ceremony, however they are recommended. A Civil Marriage ceremony can be performed in one of our Marriage Division locations after the license is effective for an additional cost.
How to get married at courthouse in Florida?
To get married at a Florida courthouse, you must first obtain a marriage license from your local County Clerk’s office. Once you have your license and complete the mandatory waiting period (if applicable), you can return to the courthouse to have a judge or deputy clerk officiate your ceremony.
How long does it take to get married at the courthouse in Florida?
There is a 3-day waiting period before Florida residents can use the marriage license to get married. The 3-day waiting period starts once the actual license is issued by the Clerk's office.
What is the fastest way to get married in Florida?
After purchasing the marriage license, you will need to wait three days before having the wedding ceremony and finalizing the marriage. Florida residents can get a discount on the license and waive the three-day waiting period by taking a marriage preparation course.
How to Get Married at the Courthouse & What to Expect
What is the first thing you do after you get married?
The absolute first thing to do after getting married is to ensure your marriage license is officially filed with the county clerk so you receive your certified marriage certificates. You will need 2-3 certified copies to handle all your post-wedding legal and administrative tasks.
What vows do you say at the courthouse?
In as much as (Bride) and (Groom) have consented together in wedlock and have witnessed the same before this company and pledged their vows to each other, by the authority vested in me by the State of California, I now pronounce you husband and wife.
What is the cheapest way to be legally married in FL?
Both residents and non-residents of Florida may receive a $25.00 discount on their marriage license by completing a premarital course. The course must be completed no more than one year before the date you apply for a marriage license.
Is it cheaper to get married at a courthouse?
Couples choose courthouse weddings for all kinds of reasons: affordability, a desire to skip the stress, or the appeal of a ceremony that feels private and deeply personal. According to The Knot, the average U.S. wedding costs around $33,000, while a courthouse wedding usually falls under $120.
What documents are needed in Florida to get married?
To obtain a marriage license you need:
- Identification: a picture ID such as a driver's license, state ID card, or valid passport; both parties will also have to provide their Social Security numbers, but do not need to provide their Social Security Cards.
- Fees: $93.50.
What is the hardest state to get married in?
The hardest states to get married in are generally clustered along the Northeast corridor—including New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. These states rank as the most difficult due to skyrocketing costs, scarce venue availability, high legal fees, and lengthy administrative red tape.
Is there a 3 day waiting period for marriage in Florida?
Florida imposes a mandatory 3-day waiting period for residents before a marriage license becomes effective. The waiting period begins the day the license is issued by the Clerk of the Court and ends at midnight on the third day.
Can guests attend a courthouse wedding?
Some officials may allow you to personalize your vows, but there's usually a standard script for the ceremony. The space within courthouses is usually limited, so these ceremonies often accommodate only a handful of guests, making them perfect for couples who prefer an intimate gathering.
Can two people get married without witnesses?
The ceremony must be attended by both parties, two witnesses, the person who conducted the ceremony and, if that person is not authorised to register marriages, the person who is registering the marriage.
Can a notary perform a marriage ceremony in Florida?
Yes, a notary public is legally authorized to marry a couple in Florida.
How much is a courthouse wedding in FL?
The standard marriage license fee is $86.00 and includes a 3-day waiting period before a marriage ceremony can be performed.
What do the groom's parents usually pay for?
Traditionally, the groom’s family is responsible for the rehearsal dinner, the officiant’s fee, the marriage license, and the honeymoon. Additionally, they often cover the groom's attire, the bride’s rings, and personal flowers like boutonnieres. However, modern customs are flexible and these costs are frequently split.
What is the 7 year rule in Florida?
In Florida, the 7-year mark often distinguishes between short-term and moderate-term marriages for alimony purposes. A marriage lasting less than 7 years is generally considered short-term, making long-term alimony less likely.
What are 7 promises in marriage?
The "7 vows of marriage" typically refer to the Saptapadi, the most important ritual in Hindu weddings where the couple takes seven steps together around a sacred fire (Agni). Each step corresponds to a specific sacred promise made to one another for a lifetime of love, duty, and mutual respect.
What are the most forgotten wedding tasks?
TOP 25 COMMON THINGS BRIDES FORGET FOR THEIR WEDDING
- Arranging transportation for the families, wedding party, and/or guests.
- Assigning someone to gather and secure gifts.
- Cake cutting set – Gold or Silver.
- Cake topper.
- Card box.
- Cash for vendor tips.
- Eating a healthy breakfast.
- Getting a good night's sleep before the wedding.
Does God approve of civil marriage?
Yes, most faith traditions and biblical scholars recognize civil marriage as valid in the eyes of God. Because marriage is considered a binding public covenant, submitting to the laws of the governing authorities is generally viewed as an act of obedience to God.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for marriage?
The 3-3-3 rule for marriage (often called the 3x3 rule) is a relationship framework designed to maintain balance and connection. It states that each partner should get 3 hours of personal time and 3 hours of couple time each week.
What to do the day after getting married?
What to Do the Day After Your Wedding
- 1) Take a Moment & Relax as Newlyweds.
- 2) Clean Up the Wedding Reception Venue (If Needed)
- 4) Make it Instagram + Facebook Official.
- 6) Spend Time with Family and Friends.
- 8) Take Time to Review and Thank Your Wedding Vendors.
- 10) Organize Wedding Rental Returns.
When you get married, who says I do first?
Traditionally, the groom says his vows and "I do" first, a custom rooted in older, patriarchal practices where the husband was seen as the head of the household.