Obtaining a marriage license in Key West, FL is a relatively straightforward process. However, there are a few important details to keep in mind. In Florida, there is a mandatory 3-day waiting period between the time you apply for a marriage license and when it becomes effective. This means that you cannot get married until at least 3 days after you have applied for the license.
The marriage license itself is valid for a period of 60 days from the effective date. This means that you have a two-month window to get married once you have obtained your license. It’s important to plan your wedding date accordingly to ensure that you do not exceed this 60-day validity period.
When applying for a marriage license in Key West, FL, you do not have to get married in the same county in which you obtained the license. This gives you the flexibility to have your wedding ceremony in any county within the state of Florida.
If you have been previously married, it is essential to know the exact date your prior marriage ended. This information will be required when applying for a marriage license. If you are unsure of the exact date, it is recommended to obtain a copy of your divorce decree or annulment documentation to ensure accuracy.
In terms of the actual process, you will need to visit the Monroe County Clerk of Court office in Key West to apply for your marriage license. Both you and your partner will need to be present and provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, you may be required to provide proof of age if you are under 18 years old. The fee for a marriage license in Key West, FL is currently $93.50.
Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, there will be a mandatory 3-day waiting period before the marriage license becomes effective. During this time, the Clerk of Court will review your application and process the necessary paperwork. After the 3-day waiting period, you can return to the office to pick up your marriage license.
It’s important to note that the 3-day waiting period can be waived under certain circumstances, such as if both parties have completed a premarital preparation course approved by the state of Florida. This course must be taken within one year of applying for the marriage license. If you are eligible for the waiver, you will need to provide documentation of completion when applying for the license.
The process of obtaining a marriage license in Key West, FL typically takes a minimum of 3 days due to the mandatory waiting period. However, it is recommended to allow for additional time to gather any necessary documentation and to account for any potential delays in the application process. It’s always a good idea to contact the Monroe County Clerk of Court office for specific information and requirements before applying for a marriage license.