Planning to get married in St. Johns County, Florida? Getting your marriage license is one of the most important legal steps in your wedding planning process. After photographing over 600 weddings in St. Augustine and surrounding areas, we've helped countless couples navigate this process.
The St. Johns County Clerk of Court handles all marriage license applications at their office in St. Augustine. While the process is straightforward, knowing the requirements, fees, and timing helps ensure everything goes smoothly for your big day.
## Where to Apply for Your Marriage License
The St. Johns County Clerk of Court office is located at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084, in the Richard O. Watson Judicial Center. The office handles all marriage license applications Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
St. Johns County Clerk of Court
4010 Lewis Speedway
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Phone: (904) 819-3600
No appointment is necessary for marriage license applications, but we recommend arriving at least an hour before closing to ensure you have enough time to complete the process. The office can get busy during peak wedding season (October through May), so allow extra time if you're applying on Fridays or before holidays.
## Required Documents and Information
Both parties must appear together in person to apply for a marriage license. Here's what you'll need to bring:
### Essential Documents
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, or state ID card)
- Social Security numbers (cards not required, but you must know the numbers)
- If previously married: certified copies of divorce decrees or death certificates
### Additional Requirements
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old (parental consent and court approval required for ages 16-17)
- No blood tests or medical examinations required
- Both parties must be legally free to marry
Pro Tip: Make copies of all your documents before visiting the office. If there are any questions about your paperwork, having copies can help resolve issues quickly.
## Marriage License Fees and Payment Options
The marriage license fee structure in St. Johns County includes several components:
| Payment Method |
Total Fee |
Breakdown |
| Cash or Check |
$93.50 |
$63.50 license + $30 domestic violence surcharge |
| Credit Card |
$96.50 |
$93.50 + $3.00 processing fee |
The $30 domestic violence surcharge is mandated by Florida law and supports domestic violence prevention programs statewide. This fee applies to all marriage licenses issued in Florida.
### Waiting Period Waiver Options
If you want to waive the standard 3-day waiting period, you have two options:
- Complete an approved premarital preparation course (4-hour minimum)
- Pay an additional $30 waiver fee at the time of application
## Understanding the Waiting Period and Timeline
Florida law requires a 3-day waiting period between applying for your license and getting married. This means if you apply on Monday, the earliest you can get married is Thursday.
### Key Timeline Points:
- **Day 1**: Apply for license at Clerk's office
- **Day 4**: Earliest marriage date (if no waiver)
- **Day 60**: License expires
Important: The 3-day waiting period includes weekends and holidays. If you apply on Friday, you can't marry until Monday (unless you waive the waiting period).
Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If you don't get married within this timeframe, you'll need to apply for a new license and pay the full fee again.
## Special Considerations for Out-of-State Couples
St. Johns County welcomes couples from anywhere in the United States or internationally. Your state of residence doesn't affect your ability to obtain a marriage license in Florida, but you must meet Florida's marriage requirements.
### What Out-of-State Couples Need to Know:
- All Florida marriage laws apply regardless of your home state
- Your marriage will be legally recognized in all 50 states
- Some states have different requirements for name changes after marriage
- Consider getting multiple certified copies if you live far away
Many couples choose St. Augustine for destination weddings or elopements. The marriage license process is the same whether you're a Florida resident or visiting from another state.
## After the Ceremony: Completing the Process
Once you're married, there are still important legal steps to complete:
### Officiant Responsibilities
Your officiant must return the completed marriage license to the St. Johns County Clerk's office within 10 days of the ceremony. This includes:
- Completing the officiant section of the license
- Obtaining signatures from both spouses and two witnesses
- Returning the original license to the Clerk's office
### Getting Certified Copies
After the Clerk's office processes your returned license, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate. These official documents are needed for:
- Changing your name with Social Security
- Updating driver's licenses
- Adding spouse to insurance policies
- Bank account changes
- Passport applications
Certified Copy Fees: $5.00 per copy from St. Johns County Clerk's office. Most couples need 2-3 certified copies for name changes and legal purposes.
## Courthouse Wedding Option
If you prefer a simple civil ceremony, the St. Johns County Clerk's office can perform your wedding ceremony. These courthouse weddings are scheduled by appointment and include:
- Brief civil ceremony performed by authorized court personnel
- Witness requirement (bring two witnesses over 18, or court staff can serve as witnesses)
- Immediate completion of marriage certificate process
- Cost-effective option for couples wanting a simple ceremony
Contact the Clerk's office at (904) 819-3600 to schedule your courthouse wedding ceremony.
## Ready to Plan Your St. Augustine Wedding?
Getting your marriage license is just the first step in your wedding journey. If you're planning an intimate ceremony or elopement in St. Augustine, we'd love to help you document your special day. From the historic streets of the Ancient City to beautiful beach locations throughout St. Johns County, we know all the best spots for couples who want stunning wedding photography.
Planning an Intimate Wedding or Elopement?
We've photographed hundreds of small weddings and elopements throughout St. Augustine and St. Johns County. Let us help you create beautiful memories of your special day.
View Our Elopement Guide
Last updated: January 15, 2024