Understanding the legal requirements for getting married in Florida is essential to planning your destination wedding. The process is simple, making Florida one of the easiest states for couples-predominantly out-of-state visitors-to marry legally.
This guide explains exactly what you need to know, so there are no surprises before your wedding day.
Who Can Officiate a Florida Keys Boat or Sandbar Wedding
Florida law allows several types of officiants to perform wedding ceremonies legally – and this includes weddings held on boats, catamarans, yachts, and sandbars in the Florida Keys.
Authorized officiants include:
- Ordained ministers or clergy
- Notaries public
- Judges or clerks
Most couples booking Florida Keys wedding charters work with professional charter companies that either provide or coordinate a licensed officiant for their boat or sandbar ceremony. This ensures your vows are legally binding, whether you are married at sea, on a tropical sandbar, or during a sunset cruise.
How to Apply for a Florida Marriage License
To legally marry in Florida, couples must apply for a marriage license.
Application process:
- Apply in person or online through a Florida county clerk.
- Both partners must complete the application.
- Payment of the marriage license fee is required.
- Identification must be presented.
County clerks throughout Florida issue marriage licenses.
Waiting Period Explained
The waiting period depends on whether the couple is a Florida resident.
Waiting period details:
- Florida residents: May have a waiting period unless waived
- Non-Florida residents: No waiting period
- Non-residents can marry immediately after receiving the license.
This makes Florida especially convenient for destination weddings.
Marriage License Validity
Once issued, the marriage license has a limited validity period.
Important details:
- The license is valid for 60 days.
- The ceremony must take place within this timeframe.
- The license becomes void after expiration.
Planning your ceremony date within this window is essential.
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Florida
Florida allows several types of officiants to perform wedding ceremonies.
Authorized officiants include:
- Ordained ministers or clergy
- Judges and clerks
- Notaries public
- Certain religious leaders
Many destination wedding packages include officiant services to simplify the process.
After the Ceremony: Filing the Marriage License
After your ceremony, the marriage license must be filed appropriately.
Post-ceremony steps:
- Officiant signs the license.
- The license is returned to the county clerk.
- Certified copies can be requested.
- The official marriage certificate is issued.
Most professional officiants handle this step on your behalf.
Is a Boat or Sandbar Wedding Legally Valid in Florida?
Yes – boat weddings, yacht ceremonies, bachelorette party , and sandbar weddings in the Florida Keys are fully legal as long as:
- A valid Florida marriage license is issued.
- A legally authorized officiant performs the ceremony.
You do not need a special license to get married offshore or on a sandbar. Whether you say “I do” on a private catamaran, a sunset cruise, or a shallow-water sandbar, Florida law recognizes your marriage the same way it would at a courthouse or beach venue.
This makes Florida Keys destination weddings especially attractive for out-of-state couples.
Name Changes & Certified Copies
If you plan to change your last name or need proof of marriage:
What to know:
- Request certified copies from the county clerk
- Certified copies are needed for name changes, passports, and legal documents.
- Ordering extra copies is recommended.
Legal Tips for a Smooth Wedding Process
- Apply for your license early.
- Double-check identification requirements
- Confirm officiant credentials
- Keep digital and physical copies of documents.
These steps help ensure everything runs smoothly.
Why Florida Keys Wedding Charters Make the Legal Process Easy
Florida’s simple marriage laws, combined with the support of Florida Keys wedding charters, make destination weddings effortless. From securing a licensed officiant to filing your paperwork, charter-based weddings remove the complexity that couples often worry about when planning from out of state.
Whether you’re exchanging vows on a sunset cruise, private yacht, or tropical sandbar, Florida’s legal system and professional charter teams work together to ensure your wedding is not only breathtaking – but also completely valid and worry-free.