Marriage License in Broward County: Common Delays Explained

1) Introduction

2) Quick Answer / Key Takeaways

• In Broward County, both people typically need to appear in person at the same time to apply for the marriage license.
• Bring valid government photo ID, and be ready to provide required identification numbers (like Social Security numbers, if you have them).
• Broward lists a standard marriage license fee of $86 and a reduced fee of $61 if you present a qualifying premarital course certificate (fees can change).
• Florida law can delay the effective date of the license by 3 days if you don’t present valid premarital course certificates (with exceptions for some situations).
• Florida marriage licenses are valid for 60 days after issuance, so don’t apply too early.

3) Step-by-Step: Marriage License in Broward County

1. Confirm where you’ll apply (and whether you want an appointment).Broward offers marriage license services at multiple locations. Some couples walk in, and some prefer an appointment depending on schedules and availability. Before you go, check the official Broward marriage page for locations, hours, and any current updates.
2. Gather what you’ll need.At a minimum, plan to bring:
   • Government-issued photo ID (for example: driver’s license, passport, state ID, military ID, etc.).
   • Required identification numbers (Florida law requires a signed affidavit that includes Social Security numbers or other available identification numbers, depending on your situation).
   • Payment method accepted by the clerk (Broward lists cash, money orders/cashier’s checks, and major credit cards; personal checks are not accepted).
   • If applicable: premarital course completion certificates (if you’re using them for a reduced fee and/or to avoid the effective-date delay).
   Tip: Use your exact legal name as it appears on your ID. If your name doesn’t match, it can slow things down.
3. Read the Family Law Handbook information (required step).Broward requires applicants to sign an affidavit indicating they have read the Family Law Handbook information before a license is issued. Plan a few minutes for this step (and don’t skip it).
4. Consider completing the online pre-application to speed up your visit.Broward encourages couples to complete the marriage license pre-application before coming in. This can make the in-person portion faster, but you still typically need to appear in person together to finish the process and receive the license.
5. Apply in person together and review your license dates.When you apply, you’ll sign required statements/affidavits, present ID, provide required identification numbers, and pay the fee. Before you leave, double-check your names and make sure you understand:
   • The effective date (when you can legally use the license for the ceremony).
   • The expiration date (Florida licenses are generally valid for 60 days after issuance).
   If you want a simple, organized overview of the premarital preparation course route (including how it can affect timing), you can review this step-by-step premarital course option for Broward couples and then confirm the exact requirements with the clerk.
6. Have your ceremony in Florida and return the completed license for recording.After the ceremony, the completed license must be returned to the clerk’s office to be recorded. If you’ll need proof of marriage quickly for benefits, travel, or a name change, ask the clerk about the fastest way to get a certified copy and what timelines to expect.

4) Common Mistakes (and What to Do Instead)

• Only one person shows up. Go together—Broward generally requires both applicants to apply in person at the same time.
• Bringing an ID that isn’t accepted. Use a valid federal or state government photo ID (passport, driver’s license, state ID, etc.).
• Using a nickname or a name that doesn’t match your ID. Use your exact legal name as shown on your identification.
• Forgetting required identification numbers. Be ready to provide Social Security numbers or other identification numbers as required by Florida law.
• Trying to pay with a personal check. Broward lists accepted payment methods (cash, money order/cashier’s check, or major credit cards). Personal/business checks are not accepted.
• Scheduling the ceremony too soon. Florida law may delay the license’s effective date by 3 days if you don’t present valid premarital course certificates (with exceptions in some cases). Confirm your dates before booking vendors.
• Applying too early. Florida marriage licenses generally expire 60 days after issuance. Apply close enough to your wedding date that you won’t run out of time.

5) Real-World Tips to Make It Easier

• Take screenshots and keep a folder. Keep photos/scans of both IDs, confirmations, and receipts in one place.
• Call ahead if you have anything unusual. Examples: recent legal name change, no Social Security number, or questions about exceptions.
• Don’t book non-refundable wedding items until you verify the effective date. This helps you avoid last-minute stress.
• Go earlier in the day if you can. Lines and processing time can vary.
• Ask about certified copies right away. If you’ll need a certified copy for records or a future name change, it’s helpful to know the process before you leave.

6) When to Verify / Who to Contact (Official Sources)

• Broward County Clerk of Courts — Marriage Licenses (requirements, locations, updates)
• Broward Clerk — Marriage License Info Sheet (fees, locations, key notes)
• Florida Statutes — Section 741.04 (issuance requirements, affidavits, effective-date delay rules)
• Florida Statutes — Section 741.041 (license validity period: 60 days)
• Florida Department of Health — Marriage Certificates (recording and certificate timing)

7) Next Step

8) FAQ

Do both people have to apply in person in Broward County?

Can we apply online only?

Is there a waiting period in Florida?

How long is a Broward County marriage license valid?

Can we use a Broward marriage license anywhere in Florida?

How long does it take to get a marriage certificate after the wedding?

9) Disclaimer