How to Get a Marriage License in Pinellas County

How to Get a Marriage License in Pinellas County

Getting married in St. Petersburg or elsewhere in Pinellas County? Before you say “I do,” there's one important item you'll need to take care of: your marriage license.

Couples obtain their marriage license through the Clerk of the Court—not through their wedding officiant.

If you're applying in Pinellas County, the Pinellas County Clerk provides an online marriage-license application. Both applicants must then complete the Clerk's requirements for the license to be issued.

Because requirements can change and individual circumstances can differ, always check the Pinellas County Clerk's current marriage-license information before applying.

When should we get our marriage license?

Don't leave this task until the wedding day.

Your marriage license has an effective date and expiration date, and your ceremony must take place while the license is valid.

Florida residents should also be aware that a waiting period may apply. The Pinellas County Clerk currently explains that when at least one applicant is a Florida resident, there is generally a three-day waiting period unless applicable requirements for a waiver are satisfied.

The waiting period does not apply when both applicants are non-Florida residents.

Your safest approach is to check the dates printed directly on your issued marriage license and confirm current requirements with the Clerk.

How long is a Florida marriage license valid?

The Pinellas County Clerk currently states that a Florida marriage license is valid for 60 days from its issue date.

That doesn't mean you should wait until the last minute. Give yourself enough time to obtain your license and address any questions before your ceremony.

Can we use our Pinellas County license for a beach wedding?

A Florida marriage license issued in Pinellas County can be used for a marriage ceremony elsewhere in Florida.

That means you aren't limited to getting married at the courthouse or even in the county where you received the license.

Couples working with Rings, Bells and Bliss can have their ceremony at a home, beach, backyard, church or park within our service area.

What happens once we have the license?

That's when your wedding officiant becomes particularly important.

I'm Adrienne Gulick, owner of Rings, Bells and Bliss. I'm a commissioned Florida Notary Public and ordained minister.

Before your wedding, we'll work together to create the ceremony you envision. I can also assist with writing your ceremony and vows.

After performing your ceremony, I complete the appropriate officiant portion of your marriage license and return the completed license to the Clerk of Court for recording, usually within two business days of your ceremony.

Ready to talk about your wedding?

Whether you're planning a St. Petersburg wedding, beach ceremony, backyard celebration or intimate gathering, I'd love to hear what you're envisioning.

After you inquire, I'll reach out to schedule a brief 5–10 minute phone call to learn more about your plans and make sure we're a good fit.

Call or text Adrienne at 813-334-9700.