Scope: This educational guide explains exactly how a premarital preparation course impacts your marriage license in Volusia County, Florida. While we strive for total accuracy, requirements can change—always confirm final details with the Volusia County Clerk before applying.
Quick Answer: Volusia County Marriage License Rules
In Volusia County, the standard marriage license fee is $86.00. However, completing a qualifying 4-hour premarital preparation course reduces your fee to $61.00 (saving you $25) and allows Florida residents to entirely skip the mandatory 3-day waiting period. Couples must apply in person at either the DeLand Courthouse or the Daytona Judicial Center, though you can accelerate the process by starting your application online via the clerk’s eMarriage system.
| Requirement / Item | Volusia County Guidelines & Facts |
|---|---|
| Where to Apply | Applications are accepted in-person at the Volusia County Courthouse (DeLand) and the Steven C. Henderson Judicial Center (Daytona). |
| Standard Fee vs. Course Fee | The standard fee is $86.00. Submitting a valid premarital course certificate drops the fee to $61.00. |
| Waiting Period | Florida residents face a strict 3-day delay. Submitting your valid premarital course certificate waives this wait entirely. |
| Application Process | Both prospective parties must appear in person. You can speed up your visit using the eMarriage option on the Volusia County Clerk website. |
| License Validity | Your Volusia County marriage license is valid for 60 days after issuance. The ceremony must occur within this window. |
| Required ID & Documents | Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) and know your Social Security number. If previously divorced, you must provide the exact date the divorce was finalized. |
Step-by-Step: Getting Your Volusia County Marriage License
- Decide to Skip the Wait and Save $25: Register for an approved Florida Premarital Course. Florida law requires the course to be at least 4 hours long. Once finished, you will receive an official certificate of completion.
- Start Your Application Online: Visit the Volusia County Clerk’s eMarriage portal to fill out your initial paperwork. This saves massive amounts of time at the courthouse.
- Gather Your Required Information: You and your partner must both bring a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license or birth certificate with photo ID). You must also provide your Social Security numbers. Note: A blood test is no longer required in Florida.
- Go to the Clerk’s Office In-Person: Both applicants must appear together at either Room A121 in DeLand or Room 100 in Daytona. Present your premarital course certificate immediately to ensure you are charged the discounted $61.00 fee instead of the $86.00 fee.
- Check the Dates: Ensure the clerk correctly printed the effective date (which should be immediate if you took the course) and the 60-day expiration date.
- Return the License: After your wedding ceremony, the completed marriage license must be returned to the Volusia County Clerk’s Office for official recording within 10 days.
Common Mistakes (and What to Do Instead)
- Mistake: Scheduling the ceremony before the license is valid.
Fix: If you do not take the premarital course, you are subject to a 3-day waiting period. Never schedule a ceremony during those 3 days. Take the course to eliminate this headache. - Mistake: Forgetting your divorce finalization date.
Fix: The Volusia clerk strictly requires the exact date of your previous divorce finalization (if applicable). Keep it written down in your phone before you arrive. - Mistake: Taking the course too early.
Fix: The certificate is only valid if the course was completed no more than 1 year prior to the date you apply for the license.
Volusia County Marriage License FAQ
How much is a marriage license in Volusia County, FL?
The standard fee for a marriage license in Volusia County is $86.00. However, if you present a certificate showing you completed an approved Florida premarital preparation course, the fee is reduced to $61.00.
Is a premarital course required in Volusia County?
No, a premarital course is not legally required. However, if Florida residents choose not to take it, they must wait 3 days before their license becomes valid and they will pay the full $86.00 application fee.
Do both partners need to take the premarital course?
Yes, to qualify for the fee reduction and skip the 3-day wait, both partners must complete the 4-hour course. You can take the course together or separately, as long as valid certificates are filed.
How long is a Volusia County marriage license valid?
Your Florida marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. Your ceremony must take place, and the license must be signed, within this 60-day window.
Can we apply online instead of going in person?
While you can (and should) begin the application process online using the Volusia County Clerk’s eMarriage system, Florida law dictates that both prospective parties must finalize the application by appearing in person at the courthouse.
Next Step: Claim Your Discount
If you want an organized, step-by-step program to enrich your relationship and skip the courthouse waiting period, enroll in our Volusia County approved online premarital course today.
