Is a Premarital Course Required in Florida?

If you’re planning to get married in Florida, one question that might come up is: Is a premarital course required in Florida? The short answer is no, it is not required—but it is highly recommended. Not only can a Florida premarital course help couples build a strong foundation for marriage, but it can also save you money and time when obtaining your marriage license.

What Is a Florida Premarital Course?

A Florida premarital course, also known as a marriage preparation course or premarital preparation class, is a state-approved educational program that covers essential relationship topics. These include communication, conflict resolution, financial planning, family goals, and emotional bonding. The goal is to equip couples with the skills and insights needed for a lasting marriage.

Is It Legally Required?

While Florida encourages couples to take a premarital course, it is not legally mandatory. That said, the state offers compelling incentives for couples who choose to complete one:

• $25 discount on the marriage license
• Waiver of the mandatory 3-day waiting period

These benefits alone make taking a premarital course a smart choice. Without the course, a marriage license in Florida costs $86 and includes a 3-day waiting period. With the course, the cost drops to $61, and the license becomes valid immediately.

Why Take a Florida Premarital Course?

1. Save Money on Your Marriage License

A $25 discount may not seem like a huge deal, but when you’re budgeting for a wedding, every dollar counts. Many premarital preparation classes cost about the same as the discount, making the course effectively free.

2. Avoid the Waiting Period

If you want to get married right after picking up your license, completing a premarital course is the only way to do so legally in Florida. This is especially helpful for destination weddings, courthouse ceremonies, or last-minute plans.

3. Strengthen Your Relationship

Taking a Florida premarital course helps you explore important topics with your partner before saying “I do.” You’ll learn how to better communicate, manage disagreements, and plan for the future together.

4. Self-Paced and Convenient

Online options like the Cadenza Counseling Florida Premarital Course make it easy to complete the course from the comfort of your home. These courses are self-paced and mobile-friendly, allowing you to finish at your own speed.

5. Certificate of Completion Included

To receive the discount and waiting period waiver, you’ll need to show a certificate of completion when you apply for your marriage license. Reputable online providers will give you instant access to your certificate once you’ve completed the course.

What to Look For in a Marriage Preparation Course

• State Approval: Ensure the provider is recognized by a Florida county or licensed officiant.
• Minimum 4 Hours: Florida requires at least four hours of instruction.
• Certificate Access: Choose a course that provides immediate proof of completion.
• Positive Reviews: Read feedback from other couples to ensure a good experience.

Cadenza Counseling meets all these criteria. Expertly authored by Kristen Franzen, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC MH22317) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), our course is widely trusted by couples across the state to provide authoritative and legally recognized relationship education.

What Happens If You Skip the Course?

You wait 3 days. Without a course certificate, a Florida marriage license does not take effect until 3 days after it is issued (F.S. 741.04). Apply on a Thursday and the license is not valid until Monday, so you cannot marry that weekend.

You pay the full fee. The license costs $86 instead of $61.

Out-of-state couples: the 3-day wait only applies when at least one of you is a Florida resident. If you both live in another state, there is no waiting period, but the course still saves you $25.

Do Both Partners Need to Take It?

Yes, if you want the benefits. Each of you needs a completion certificate when you apply. You can take the course together or separately, and it must be completed within 12 months before you apply (F.S. 741.0305).

Final Thoughts

So, is a premarital course required in Florida? No—but skipping it means paying more and waiting longer to get married. Taking a Florida premarital course is a smart move that not only saves you $25 and eliminates the 3-day waiting period but also helps you and your partner start your marriage on the right foot.

Whether you call it a marriage preparation course or a premarital preparation class, the benefits go far beyond the paperwork. It’s an investment in your relationship and your future.

Ready to take the next step? Visit Cadenza Counseling and get started today!