Tips On How To Get A Marriage License in Alachua County Florida

Last updated: July 20, 2026
Expert Reviewer: Kristen Franzen, LMHC (MH22317), NCC (1727660)
Scope note: This guide is educational only (not legal advice). It covers how the Alachua County, Florida marriage license process works based on current Clerk of Court procedures, but requirements can change. Always verify with the official Alachua County Clerk before your visit.

Quick Answer: Alachua County Marriage License Requirements

To get a marriage license in Alachua County, Florida, both applicants must complete the county’s online application and appear in person at the Family and Civil Courthouse in Gainesville. You must bring valid photo IDs, provide your Social Security numbers, and pay the required fee.

• Cost: The standard fee is $86.00. You can reduce this to $61.00 by presenting a certificate from an approved Florida Premarital Course.
• Waiting Period: Florida residents face a mandatory 3-day waiting period. This wait is legally waived if you complete an approved premarital course. Out-of-state residents do not have a waiting period.
• Validity: The license is valid anywhere in Florida for 60 days after issuance.

Fact Snapshot

Item	What to know
Where to apply	Alachua County Family and Civil Courthouse (201 East University Avenue, Gainesville, FL). Start with the online application.
Fee (Alachua County)	$86.00 standard, or $61.00 with an approved premarital course certificate. Credit cards incur a 3.5% service fee.
Waiting period	3 days for Florida residents (waived with a premarital course). 0 days for non-residents.
Validity window	60 days from the date of issuance.
After the ceremony	The signed license must be returned to the Clerk’s Office for recording within 10 days.

Step-by-Step Guide for Alachua County Couples

1. Decide on a premarital preparation course (Recommended).
   By taking an approved 4-hour Alachua County Premarital Course, you instantly save $25 on your marriage license fee (reducing it from $86 to $61) and completely bypass the mandatory 3-day waiting period for Florida residents. Upon completion, you will receive an official certificate to present to the Clerk.
2. Complete the Alachua County online application.
   Fill out the online application via the Alachua County Clerk’s website. If either applicant has been married before, you must provide the exact date and reason the prior marriage ended (e.g., divorce decree or death).
3. Schedule your in-person appointment.
   After submitting the online application, call the Clerk’s office at 352-374-3623 to schedule your appointment. Walk-ins are accepted until 4:00 p.m., but appointments ensure faster service.
4. Gather your required documents.
   Both applicants must bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID) and know their Social Security numbers. Bring your printed premarital course certificate if you are claiming the discount.
5. Go to the courthouse together and pay the fee.
   Both partners must appear in person at the Family and Civil Courthouse (201 E. University Ave, Gainesville). You will take an oath, sign the paperwork, and pay the fee ($86 or $61). The clerk accepts cash or credit cards (subject to a 3.5% processing fee).
6. Have the ceremony and return the license.
   The license is valid anywhere in Florida for 60 days. The Alachua County Clerk can perform a brief civil ceremony on-site for an additional $30. After your wedding, the officiant must return the signed license to the Clerk within 10 days for official recording.

Common Mistakes (and how to avoid them)

1. Assuming only one person needs to show up. Both applicants must be present at the courthouse to apply.
2. Scheduling a ceremony date inside the waiting period. If you are a Florida resident and skip the premarital course, your license won’t be valid for 3 days. Plan accordingly or take the course to waive the wait.
3. Expecting the discount without the right certificate. You must present a valid certificate from an approved provider (like Cadenza Counseling) at the time of application.
4. Missing the expiration window. The license expires 60 days after issuance. Do not apply too early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do both applicants have to be present in Alachua County to apply?

Yes, both applicants must be present together at the Alachua County Family and Civil Courthouse to apply for their marriage license.

How much is a marriage license in Alachua County?

The standard marriage license fee in Alachua County is $86.00. However, if you complete an approved Florida premarital preparation course, the fee is reduced to $61.00.

How soon can we get married after applying in Alachua County?

If you are a Florida resident, there is a mandatory 3-day waiting period. You can skip this waiting period entirely by completing an approved 4-hour premarital course. Out-of-state residents do not have a waiting period.

Can the Alachua County Clerk perform a civil wedding ceremony?

Yes, the Alachua County Clerk can perform civil marriage ceremonies at the courthouse for an additional fee of $30.00.