Marriage records are significant documents that serve as legal proof of a marriage and include essential information such as the names of the couple, the date, and the place of marriage. They are often required for various legal purposes, including changing your name, applying for joint health insurance policies, settling estates, and more. Knowing how to obtain marriage records is essential for any engaged or married couple, particularly if they need to resolve any legal or administrative issues.
In Florida, marriage records are public, so anyone can request a copy of a marriage certificate. However, only the parties named on the certificate or their legal representatives can request a certified copy of the marriage certificate.
To apply for a marriage record, you will need the following documents:
There are several ways to obtain marriage records in Florida:
To request by mail, send the completed application form along with a copy of your identification and payment to:
Florida Department of Health
Bureau of Vital Statistics
P.O. Box 210
Jacksonville, FL 32231-0042
You can request in person at the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics office located at 1217 N Pearl Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. Make sure to bring all required documents and fee payment.
You can also order a marriage certificate online through VitalChek, an official partner of the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics. This method is convenient and allows expedited processing options.
The cost for a copy of a marriage certificate in Florida is $5 for the first copy and $4 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. There may be additional service fees if you opt for expedited processing or choose to order online through VitalChek.
Processing times can vary based on the method you choose:
By following these guidelines on how to get Florida marriage records, the process should be smooth and efficient. However, if you have any specific questions or need further assistance, it's always a good idea to reach out directly to the Florida Department of Health's Bureau of Vital Statistics. Proper preparation and understanding of the application process, cost, and required documents will ensure you obtain your marriage records promptly and with minimal hassle.
Address | P.O. Box 210, 1217 Pearl Street (Zip 32202), Jacksonville, FL 32231-0042 |
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Phone number | (904) 359-6900 |
Website | https://www.floridahealth.gov/index.html |