Last updated: July 21, 2026
Expertise & Trust Note: This comprehensive guide is professionally authored and reviewed by Kristen Franzen, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida LMHC MH22317) and National Certified Counselor (NCC #1727660). At Cadenza Counseling, we leverage deep clinical expertise and verify all local court procedures to ensure you have the most accurate, up-to-date legal and financial information. This guide strictly details the current procedures for the Wakulla County Clerk of Court & Comptroller.
Quick Answer: How to Get a Wakulla County Marriage License
To get a marriage license in Wakulla County, both applicants must visit the Wakulla County Clerk’s Office (Official Records department) located at 3056 Crawfordville Highway in Crawfordville, FL. The standard marriage license fee is $86.00. However, Florida residents who complete an approved Florida premarital course will have their fee reduced to $61.00 (a $25 savings) and can legally skip the state’s mandatory 3-day waiting period. Applications are processed strictly between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and it is highly recommended to call ahead for an appointment at 850-926-0326.
Wakulla County Fact Snapshot
| Requirement | Verified Clerk Details |
|---|---|
| Where to Apply | Wakulla County Courthouse, 3056 Crawfordville Hwy, Crawfordville, FL 32327. |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Appointments are recommended. |
| Standard Fee | $86.00 (payable by cash, check, credit card, or money order). |
| Reduced Fee | $61.00 (Florida residents who complete a qualifying premarital course save $25). |
| Waiting Period | 3 days for Florida residents. Waived immediately with a premarital course certificate. No wait for out-of-state residents. |
| Ceremonies | The clerk’s office no longer performs ceremonies (effective Oct 1, 2014). You must hire a separate officiant. |
| License Validity | Valid for exactly 60 days from the issue date, anywhere within the state of Florida. |
Step-by-Step Explanation
- Take an Approved Florida Premarital Course (Highly Recommended for FL Residents): Under Florida Statute 741.0305, couples can receive a marriage fee reduction. By taking Cadenza Counseling’s Florida premarital course, you save $25 on your Wakulla County license fee and entirely bypass the mandatory 3-day waiting period.
- Gather Acceptable Photo Identification: Both applicants must provide an unexpired photo ID. Acceptable forms include a valid driver’s license, state-issued ID card, military ID, or passport. Double-check that the legal name on your application exactly matches the legal name printed on your ID to prevent delays at the counter.
- Visit the Courthouse Together: Both parties must be physically present at the Wakulla County Courthouse to finalize the paperwork. Remember, marriage license applications are only processed in the Official Records department between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
- Pay the Application Fee: The clerk accepts cash, check, credit card, or money order. The fee is $86 without the course, or $61 if you present your Cadenza Counseling course completion certificate. Note: Credit card transactions may carry a standard processing fee.
- Confirm Your Ceremony Plans: Because the Wakulla County Clerk does not perform wedding ceremonies, you will need to arrange an authorized Florida officiant. Your marriage ceremony must be performed before the license expires—you have exactly 60 days from the date of issuance.
- Record the License Post-Ceremony: After the wedding, your officiant must return the completed marriage license to the Wakulla County Clerk’s office to be officially recorded. Once recorded, you can order certified copies, which are required for tasks like changing your last name, updating insurance, and adjusting tax status.
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
- Arriving after 4:00 PM: While the courthouse stays open later for some operations, the Wakulla County Official Records department strictly stops taking marriage license applications at 4:00 PM.
- Assuming the Clerk will marry you: The Wakulla County Clerk’s office officially stopped performing wedding ceremonies on October 1, 2014. You cannot get married at the clerk’s window.
- Forgetting the 3-day wait: If you are a Florida resident and choose not to take an approved premarital course, your license will not be valid for 3 days. You cannot get married on the same day you apply.
- Name mismatches: The legal name you put on your application must be identical to your unexpired photo ID. Do not use nicknames.
Real-World Tips from an LMHC
- Leverage the course benefits: Our premarital course not only strengthens your relationship fundamentals, but it actively pays for itself. The course waives the 3-day wait and lowers your courthouse fee to $61.
- Pick a target week, not just a target day: Build in buffer time for clerk scheduling and effective date rules. For broader state guidance, check out our guide on how far in advance to get a marriage license in Florida.
- Keep a “Clerk Visit” Folder: Place your unexpired photo IDs, social security numbers, Cadenza Counseling completion certificate, and payment method in one physical folder to take to the courthouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Wakulla County Clerk’s office located?
The Wakulla County Clerk of Court is located at 3056 Crawfordville Highway, Crawfordville, FL 32327. Marriage licenses are handled by the Official Records department.
Does the Wakulla County Clerk perform wedding ceremonies?
No. As of October 1, 2014, the Wakulla County Clerk’s Office no longer performs wedding ceremonies. Couples must hire a separate legally authorized officiant in the state of Florida.
How much does a marriage license cost in Wakulla County?
The standard marriage license fee in Wakulla County is $86.00. However, if you are a Florida resident and you complete an approved premarital preparation course (such as the one offered by Cadenza Counseling), the fee is heavily discounted down to $61.00.
What are the hours to get a marriage license in Wakulla County?
Wakulla County marriage license applications are processed Monday through Friday, strictly between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Appointments are recommended but not required.
Is there a waiting period for a marriage license in Wakulla County?
For Florida residents, there is a mandatory 3-day waiting period before the license is valid. However, you can waive this waiting period instantly by completing a recognized Florida premarital course and presenting the certificate to the clerk. Non-Florida residents do not have any waiting period.
How long is a Florida marriage license valid?
A Florida marriage license is valid for exactly 60 days after issuance. The marriage ceremony must occur before the expiration date printed on the document.
