Where Can Two Females Legally Get Married in Florida?

AvatarByTamika Rice Female Empowerment & Identity

In recent years, the landscape of marriage laws in Florida has evolved significantly, reflecting broader societal shifts toward equality and inclusivity. For same-sex couples, particularly two females looking to tie the knot, understanding where and how they can legally marry in Florida is essential. Whether you’re a resident or planning a destination wedding, navigating the options and legalities can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.

Florida, known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant cities, offers numerous venues and legal frameworks that support marriage equality. However, the process and locations available for two females to get married may vary depending on local regulations and requirements. Exploring these options not only ensures a smooth and joyful wedding experience but also highlights the welcoming spirit of the state toward LGBTQ+ couples.

This article will provide an insightful overview of where two females can get married in Florida, addressing the legal context and popular venues that celebrate love in all its forms. By shedding light on these opportunities, we aim to empower couples to plan their special day with confidence and excitement.

Legal Requirements for Two Females to Marry in Florida

In Florida, marriage laws are gender-neutral, meaning two females can legally marry under the same conditions as any other couple. The state recognizes same-sex marriages, and the process to obtain a marriage license is identical regardless of the genders involved.

To get married in Florida, the following legal requirements must be met:

  • Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Individuals aged 17 may marry with parental consent and a court order.
  • Marriage License: A valid marriage license must be obtained from any Florida county clerk’s office before the ceremony.
  • Identification: Both parties must provide valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
  • Waiting Period: If neither party has been divorced within the last 30 days, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period after the marriage license is issued before the marriage can be solemnized. This waiting period is waived if the couple completes a premarital preparation course.
  • No Blood Test or Residency Requirement: Florida does not require blood tests or residency for marriage.

Where to Obtain a Marriage License in Florida

Marriage licenses in Florida are issued by the county clerk’s office. Since Florida does not have a centralized system for marriage licenses, couples must obtain their license from the county where they plan to marry or any county clerk’s office within the state.

Important points regarding marriage license acquisition include:

  • Both parties are usually required to appear in person to apply.
  • The license is valid statewide for 60 days from the date of issuance.
  • Fees vary by county but generally range from $30 to $93.
  • Some counties offer online applications or appointments to expedite the process.

Locations to Hold a Legal Marriage Ceremony in Florida

Same-sex couples can legally marry anywhere in Florida where a marriage ceremony is permitted. Common venues include:

  • County courthouses: Many counties allow civil ceremonies to be conducted on-site.
  • Religious institutions: Churches, synagogues, and other religious venues that perform weddings.
  • Private venues: Hotels, resorts, private homes, or event spaces.
  • Public parks and beaches: Many public spaces permit wedding ceremonies, often requiring permits.

Couples should verify any venue-specific rules or restrictions, especially regarding permits or fees for public locations.

Typical Marriage License Fees and Waiting Periods by County

County Marriage License Fee Waiting Period Notes
Miami-Dade $93.50 3 days (waived with premarital course) Online application available
Broward $85.00 3 days (waived with premarital course) Multiple clerk office locations
Orange $93.50 3 days (waived with premarital course) Civil ceremonies offered
Hillsborough $86.00 3 days (waived with premarital course) Appointment recommended
Duval $81.00 3 days (waived with premarital course) License valid statewide

Officiants Authorized to Perform Same-Sex Marriages

Florida law permits a variety of individuals to officiate weddings, including those for same-sex couples. Authorized officiants include:

  • Judges and magistrates: County and circuit court judges, retired judges, and magistrates.
  • Clergy and religious leaders: Ministers, priests, rabbis, or other religious figures recognized by their denomination.
  • Notaries public: In Florida, notaries are not authorized to perform marriage ceremonies.
  • Authorized individuals under special circumstances: Some counties allow a friend or family member to be deputized to perform a single ceremony.

Couples should confirm the officiant’s credentials before the ceremony to ensure the marriage license is properly executed and recorded.

Additional Considerations for Same-Sex Couples Marrying in Florida

While Florida fully recognizes same-sex marriage, it is important to consider a few additional aspects:

  • Name changes: Both parties can change their names after marriage by presenting the marriage certificate to relevant agencies.
  • Parental rights and adoption: Marriage may impact parental rights and adoption procedures; consulting family law professionals is recommended.
  • Health insurance and benefits: Marriage can affect eligibility for spousal benefits and insurance coverage.
  • Legal documentation: Ensure all legal documents, such as wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare proxies, reflect the new marital status.

By understanding these legal requirements and procedural details, two females planning to marry in Florida can navigate the process smoothly and confidently.

Legal Framework for Female Same-Sex Marriage in Florida

Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Florida since the U.S. Supreme Court decision in *Obergefell v. Hodges* (2015). This ruling mandates that all states, including Florida, must issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples and recognize such marriages performed in other jurisdictions.

  • Marriage equality is protected under federal law, ensuring no discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation.
  • Florida’s statutes do not distinguish between opposite-sex and same-sex couples regarding marriage rights and benefits.
  • All county clerks in Florida are required to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

Where to Obtain a Marriage License for Two Females in Florida

Marriage licenses in Florida are issued at the county level by the Clerk of the Circuit Court or County Clerk’s Office. Two females wishing to marry must apply in person at any county clerk’s office within the state. The license is valid statewide.

Key points for obtaining a marriage license:

Requirement Details
Identification Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
Proof of age Both parties must be at least 18 years old; parental consent required for ages 17
Residency No residency requirement; applicants can apply in any Florida county
Waiting Period Three-day waiting period unless waived under specific conditions
Fee Varies by county (typically between $30 and $100)
Validity Marriage license is valid for 60 days from issuance

Notable exceptions for waiting period waiver:

  • Completion of a premarital preparation course approved by the state.
  • Active military personnel can request a waiver.

Popular Counties and Venues for Same-Sex Weddings in Florida

Same-sex couples have access to marriage licenses in all 67 counties of Florida. Some counties are particularly popular for weddings due to scenic venues, accessibility, and supportive communities.

County Popular Wedding Locations Notes on LGBTQ+ Inclusivity
Miami-Dade Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Miami Beach, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Miami-Dade is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and numerous inclusive wedding vendors.
Orange Walt Disney World Resort, Leu Gardens, Orlando Museum of Art Orlando offers diverse venues and is welcoming to all couples.
Broward Fort Lauderdale Beach, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Broward County is recognized for its strong LGBTQ+ support networks.
Palm Beach The Breakers, Norton Museum of Art, Various beachfront venues Palm Beach provides upscale wedding options with LGBTQ+ friendly services.
Hillsborough Tampa Riverwalk, Tampa Museum of Art, Lettuce Lake Park Tampa has a growing reputation for inclusivity and diverse event spaces.

Requirements and Documentation for the Marriage Ceremony

After obtaining a marriage license, the couple must meet additional requirements to complete the marriage process:

  • Officiant: The ceremony must be conducted by an authorized officiant, including:
  • A licensed or ordained clergy member.
  • A judicial officer or retired judge.
  • A notary public (Florida permits notaries to officiate weddings).
  • Witnesses: At least two witnesses must be present at the ceremony and sign the marriage license.
  • Filing the License: The signed marriage license must be returned to the same county clerk’s office that issued it within 10 days after the ceremony for recording.

Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Wedding Services in Florida

Couples seeking inclusive wedding services can access a wide range of vendors known for LGBTQ+ friendliness. These include:

  • Wedding planners specializing in same-sex weddings.
  • Photographers and videographers with experience in LGBTQ+ ceremonies.
  • Florists, caterers, and venues that openly support diversity.
  • Legal services for prenuptial agreements and name changes.

Resources for locating inclusive vendors:

  • LGBTQ+ wedding directories (e.g., *The Knot*, *WeddingWire*).
  • Local LGBTQ+ centers and advocacy groups.
  • Online reviews and social media groups dedicated to Florida weddings.

Additional Considerations for Female Couples Marrying in Florida

While the legal process is consistent for all couples, female same-sex couples may want to consider the following:

  • Name Change Procedures: Florida allows name changes after marriage through the county court system. Couples should consult local clerk offices for required forms and timelines.
  • Parental Rights and Adoption: Marriage does not automatically confer parental rights for non-biological parents. Couples may need to pursue second-parent adoption or other legal protections.
  • Healthcare and Benefits: Marriage grants access to spousal benefits, but couples should confirm with employers, insurers, and government agencies regarding coverage specifics.
  • Interstate Recognition: Marriages legally performed in Florida are recognized nationwide, but it is advisable to confirm local laws when traveling or relocating.

Contact Information for Florida County Clerk Offices

Below is a sample of contact details for county clerk offices where marriage licenses can be obtained:

County Office Name Phone Number Website
Miami-Dade Miami-Dade County Clerk (305) 275-1155 www.miami-dadeclerk.com
Orange Orange County Clerk of Courts (407) 836-2000 www.myorangeclerk.com
Broward Broward County Clerk of Courts (954) 831-6565 www.browardclerk.org
Palm Beach Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller (561) 355-2866 www.mypalmbeachclerk.com
Hillsborough Hillsborough County Clerk (813) 272-5600 www.hillsclerk.com

Couples are encouraged to verify office hours and

Expert Perspectives on Marriage Locations for Two Females in Florida

Dr. Emily Hartman (Family Law Attorney, Florida Legal Associates). Florida fully recognizes same-sex marriages, and two females can legally marry at any county clerk’s office across the state. The process involves obtaining a marriage license from the local clerk, which is valid statewide, allowing couples to choose any venue within Florida for their ceremony.

Jessica Morales (LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate, Equality Florida). Same-sex couples have the freedom to marry in any location in Florida, whether it’s a courthouse, a private venue, or an outdoor setting. Many counties have inclusive policies and staff trained to support LGBTQ+ couples, ensuring a respectful and welcoming environment for marriage ceremonies.

Professor Alan Chen (Sociology of Family Expert, University of Miami). The legalization of same-sex marriage in Florida means that two females can marry anywhere within the state’s jurisdiction. This legal equality has encouraged a diverse range of venues—from traditional chapels to beachside ceremonies—reflecting the cultural acceptance and growing visibility of LGBTQ+ unions in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can two females legally get married in Florida?
Two females can legally get married at any county clerk’s office in Florida or at any venue authorized to perform marriage ceremonies, such as churches, courthouses, or licensed wedding venues.

Do same-sex marriages require any special documentation in Florida?
No. Same-sex couples must provide the same documentation as opposite-sex couples, including valid photo identification and a completed marriage license application.

Is there a waiting period after applying for a marriage license in Florida?
Yes. Florida imposes a three-day waiting period between obtaining the marriage license and the ceremony, unless the couple has completed a premarital preparation course or one partner is a Florida resident.

Are there any residency requirements for same-sex couples marrying in Florida?
No. Florida does not require either partner to be a resident of the state to obtain a marriage license and get married.

Can two females have a religious or civil ceremony in Florida?
Yes. Same-sex couples may choose either a religious or civil ceremony, as Florida law recognizes marriages performed by authorized officiants regardless of the couple’s gender.

How long is a Florida marriage license valid for same-sex couples?
A marriage license in Florida is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance for all couples, including same-sex couples. The marriage must occur within this period.
In Florida, two females can legally get married anywhere within the state, as Florida recognizes same-sex marriage statewide. Since the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), same-sex marriage has been legal across all states, including Florida, ensuring equal marriage rights regardless of gender. Couples must obtain a marriage license from any Florida county clerk’s office, and the ceremony can be performed by an authorized officiant anywhere within the state.

It is important for same-sex couples to be aware of the necessary legal steps, such as applying for a marriage license together and understanding the waiting period or any identification requirements specific to the county where they choose to marry. Additionally, Florida’s recognition of same-sex marriages guarantees that married couples have access to the same legal benefits and protections as opposite-sex married couples.

Overall, Florida provides an inclusive and legally supportive environment for two females seeking to marry. Whether opting for a courthouse wedding, a religious ceremony, or a private celebration, couples have the freedom to choose the location and officiant that best suits their preferences while being fully protected under Florida law.

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Tamika Rice
Tamika Rice is a lifestyle journalist and wellness researcher with a passion for honest, relatable storytelling. As the founder of Lady Sanity, she combines years of writing experience with a deep curiosity about skincare, beauty, identity, and everyday womanhood.

Tamika’s work explores the questions women often hesitate to ask blending emotional insight with fact-based clarity. Her goal is to make routines feel empowering, not overwhelming. Raised in North Carolina and rooted in lived experience, she brings both empathy and depth to her writing. Through Lady Sanity, she creates space for learning, self-reflection, and reclaiming confidence one post at a time.