Frequently asked questions about St. Augustine courthouse weddings
Where is the St. Johns County Courthouse for marriage ceremonies?
The St. Johns County Clerk of Courts is at 4010 Lewis Speedway in St. Augustine, Florida — about a mile west of the historic downtown district. It serves couples from across Northeast Florida, including Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Vilano Beach, and Anastasia Island. Marriage license appointments and judge-officiated ceremonies happen here. The building has free parking, security screening at the entrance, and short ceremony rooms suitable for small groups (typically 6–10 guests including witnesses).
How much does a courthouse wedding cost in St. Augustine?
Two main costs: the marriage license itself ($86 in St. Johns County, with a 3-day waiting period unless you complete a Florida-approved premarital course; $61 with the course) and the courthouse ceremony fee (around $30 if officiated by a notary or judge). Total: about $90–$120. Photography is the optional add-on most couples choose.
Do I need an appointment for a courthouse wedding in St. Augustine?
Yes — both for the marriage license and the ceremony. Schedule the license appointment first (St. Johns County Clerk's office, 4010 Lewis Speedway), then book the ceremony separately. Walk-ins aren't accepted for ceremonies. Bring valid photo ID, your social security number, and your fiancé.
Can I bring guests to a St. Augustine courthouse wedding?
Yes. The courthouse ceremony rooms in St. Augustine accommodate small groups — typically 6 to 10 people including the couple and witnesses. You'll need at least one witness over 18. Many couples bring just immediate family, then meet a larger group afterward at one of the historic downtown spots like the Plaza de la Constitución, the Bridge of Lions, or Flagler College's courtyard for portraits.
Where can we take photos after a St. Augustine courthouse wedding?
The most popular spots within a short drive of the courthouse: the Plaza de la Constitución (historic central square), the Bridge of Lions (iconic stone bridge), the bayfront promenade along Avenida Menendez, the Castillo de San Marcos lawn, Lightner Museum gardens, Flagler College's Spanish Renaissance courtyard, and Aviles Street (the oldest street in the U.S.). Most are 5–10 minutes from the courthouse.
What's the difference between a courthouse wedding and an elopement?
A courthouse wedding is officiated by a notary or judge inside the St. Johns County Courthouse — fast, civil, low-cost. An elopement is a small, intentional ceremony with your own officiant at a meaningful location (the beach at Anastasia State Park, the lawn at Castillo de San Marcos, a private inn courtyard). Elopements take a bit more planning but feel more personal. Both are legal Florida marriages — the difference is location and feel.