North Lauderdale City Florida marriage records are public files kept by the Broward County Clerk of Courts office. These records show proof of marriage for any couple married in or near North Lauderdale, Florida.
Anyone can order a copy of a marriage record for legal, family, or personal reasons. The county clerk holds the original file. The state office keeps a statewide copy of every Florida marriage filed since 1927.
What Are North Lauderdale Marriage Records
A marriage record is an official paper that proves two people got married. North Lauderdale sits inside Broward County. The county clerk handles all marriage filings for the cities inside the county. Each record lists the full legal names of both spouses. The record also lists the date of the marriage, the city where it took place, and the person who performed the ceremony.
Who Keeps These Records
The Broward County Clerk of Courts keeps the original marriage records for North Lauderdale. The clerk office is located at the Central Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale. The Florida Department of Health Office of Vital Statistics also keeps a statewide copy of every marriage record filed in Florida since 1927. Older records may be kept at the county archives, in church books, or in state library collections.
What Information Appears on a Record
A standard marriage certificate from Florida shows the full names of both spouses before marriage. It shows their dates of birth. It lists the date and place of the marriage. It shows the name of the officiant who performed the ceremony. It shows the date the clerk filed the record. It lists the license number. The certified copy does not show a Social Security number.
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics Role
The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics works under the Florida Department of Health. The bureau keeps indexes of every marriage filed in the state since 1927. The bureau charges $5 for a search that includes one certified copy. Extra certified copies from the state cost $4 each. The bureau sends records by mail to the address on the order form.
Where to Request Marriage Records in North Lauderdale
North Lauderdale residents have two main places to request marriage records. The first place is the Broward County Clerk of Courts office in Fort Lauderdale. The second place is the Florida Department of Health Office of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville. The county office is often faster for recent records. The state office is better for older records and genealogy research projects.
Broward County Clerk of Courts Office
The Broward County Clerk of Courts office is at 540 SE 3rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. The marriage department sits in Room 02460 of the Midrise Building. The phone number is (954) 831-7283. Office hours run Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The office serves all of Broward County, including North Lauderdale residents and visitors.
Florida Department of Health Office of Vital Statistics
The Florida Department of Health Office of Vital Statistics keeps statewide marriage records from 1927 onward. The main office sits in Jacksonville, Florida. Mail requests and online orders are accepted through the bureau. The state office charges $5 for a record search that includes one copy of the certificate. Extra copies cost $4 each. Online orders go through the VitalChek system.
Marriage License Requirements in North Lauderdale
Couples who live in North Lauderdale must apply for a marriage license at the Broward County Clerk office. Florida law requires both people to appear in person at the same time. The license costs $86 for most couples. Couples who complete an approved premarital course pay $61. The license stays valid for 60 days from the date of issue. The couple must hold the ceremony inside the state of Florida.
Documents You Must Bring
Both people must bring valid photo ID to the clerk office. A driver license, passport, state ID card, or military ID works for proof of identity. U.S. citizens must bring their Social Security number. Anyone who had a previous marriage must bring the date that marriage ended. They must bring the reason it ended, such as divorce, death, or annulment. The clerk checks all paperwork before issuing the license.
Who Must Appear in Person
Florida law requires both applicants to appear at the same time. No one can apply on behalf of another person. Power of attorney cannot be used for a marriage license application. The clerk verifies the identity of both people before issuing the license. Both applicants must sign the application form in front of the clerk. The clerk then issues the license on the spot.
Waiting Period and License Validity
Florida residents face a three-day waiting period after the clerk issues the license. The waiting period does not apply to non-Florida residents. Completing an approved premarital course removes the waiting period for Florida residents. The license stays valid for 60 days from the date the clerk issues it. The couple must perform the ceremony during this 60-day window. After 60 days, the license expires and the couple must apply again.
Marriage License Costs in North Lauderdale
The base cost for a marriage license in North Lauderdale is $86. Couples who complete an approved premarital preparation course pay a reduced fee of $61. The course must come from a provider approved by the state. The course must be completed within one year before the application date. The course also removes the three-day waiting period for Florida residents.
Base Fee and Discount Options
The full license fee is $86.00. Couples who complete the approved premarital course get a $25 discount. The course also removes the three-day waiting period for Florida residents. The course can be taken online or in person. Approved providers list their courses on the Florida Department of Children and Families website. Couples must show the completion certificate at the clerk office to get the discount.
Ceremony Fees
The Broward County Clerk performs civil ceremonies for $30. Cash and credit cards are accepted for the ceremony fee. Personal checks are not accepted. The ceremony happens at the clerk office during business hours. Witnesses are not required for a legal marriage in Florida. The officiant signs the license and returns it to the clerk within 10 days for recording. The couple receives the certified copy after the clerk files the record.
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage License (Standard) | $86.00 | Three-day wait for Florida residents |
| Marriage License (With Course) | $61.00 | No waiting period for Florida residents |
| Civil Ceremony | $30.00 | Cash or credit card only |
| Certified Copy (County) | $3.00 | Same-day pickup at clerk office |
| State Search With Copy | $5.00 | Florida DOH Office of Vital Statistics |
| Additional State Copy | $4.00 | Order with state search |
How to Request a Certified Copy of a Marriage Record
Certified copies of North Lauderdale marriage records cost $3 each at the Broward County Clerk office. The certified copy shows the raised or stamped seal of the clerk. The certified copy is the legal proof of marriage for all official matters. People use it for name changes, insurance, immigration, and other legal needs. Florida law makes these records public under Florida Statutes Chapter 119.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk Office
Visit the Broward County Clerk of Courts office at 540 SE 3rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. Go to Room 02460 in the Midrise Building. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Bring a valid photo ID. Pay $3 for each certified copy. Cash, credit, and debit cards are accepted. The clerk gives the certified copy the same day for records already on file.
Mail Requests
Mail requests for North Lauderdale marriage records need a signed written request. Include the full names of both spouses. Include the approximate date of the marriage. Include a daytime phone number. Send payment by check or money order. Mail the request to the Broward County Clerk of Courts, Marriage Department, 540 SE 3rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. Mail orders take about 7 to 10 business days.
Online Requests Through VitalChek
The VitalChek system handles online orders for Florida marriage records. Go to the VitalChek website and select Florida. Choose marriage certificate. Fill in the names of both spouses. Fill in the approximate marriage date. Pay the search fee plus a service fee. VitalChek accepts credit cards. Orders typically arrive by mail in 5 to 10 business days. Rush shipping is available for an extra fee.
Searching Marriage Records Online
People can search for North Lauderdale marriage records online for free. The Broward County Clerk website has a public records search portal. The Florida Department of Health also runs an online statewide marriage index. Both tools let you search by name and date range. The free search shows whether the record exists. Fees apply for certified copies.
Free Broward County Clerk Search
The Broward County Clerk records search portal covers marriage records from 1915 to the present. Enter the last name of one spouse in the search box. Add the first name to narrow the results. Results show the full names of both spouses. Results show the marriage date. Results show the official record number. No fee is charged to view search results online.
Statewide Marriage Index Through Florida DOH
The Florida Department of Health runs a statewide marriage index that goes back to 1927. The index lists marriages filed in every Florida county. Search by last name and first name. Search by year range. The index does not include copies of the records. Order a copy through the state office or the county clerk. The state office charges $5 for a search that includes one copy.
Historical and Pre-1927 Marriage Records
Marriage records from before 1927 in Florida can be harder to locate. The state did not require counties to file records with the state before 1927. Some counties kept records earlier than others. Broward County itself was created in 1915. Records before that date belong to old Dade County or Palm Beach County archives. Church books often hold the oldest marriage records in the area.
Where to Find Old Records
The Broward County Historical Commission keeps older marriage records on file. Church archives in the area also hold marriage books from the early 1900s. The Family History Library in Salt Lake City has microfilm copies of many Florida marriage records. Local genealogy societies can help locate older records for North Lauderdale area couples. The Florida State Archives in Tallahassee also stores historical records.
FamilySearch and Ancestry Resources
FamilySearch.org has a large collection of Florida marriage records. The records span from the 1800s to recent years. Ancestry.com also holds Florida marriage indexes and images. Both sites require a free or paid account to view records. Florida State Archives in Tallahassee has older records on microfilm. Many of these records can be viewed at no cost through a local library that offers genealogy database access.
Apostille for International Use
Couples who need a marriage certificate for use in another country often need an apostille. An apostille is a stamp that proves the document is real. The Florida Secretary of State office issues apostilles for Florida public records. The apostille must be attached to a certified copy of the marriage certificate. Countries that joined the Hague Convention accept the apostille stamp.
When You Need an Apostille
Foreign governments ask for an apostille when a U.S. document will be used in a country that joined the Hague Convention. The apostille proves the signature and seal on the certificate are genuine. Countries that did not join the Hague Convention may ask for a different kind of authentication through the U.S. Department of State. Some embassies also ask for a sworn translation of the certificate.
How to Get an Apostille in Florida
Request a certified copy of the marriage certificate from the Broward County Clerk office first. Send the certified copy to the Florida Secretary of State office in Tallahassee. Include a cover letter with the request. Include payment for the apostille fee. The Secretary of State charges $10 per apostille. Mail requests take about 5 to 10 business days to process.
Common Reasons People Request Marriage Records
People request certified copies of marriage records for many reasons. The most common reasons include changing a last name, proving marital status for insurance, applying for immigration benefits, settling estate matters, and researching family history. Each reason may need a different number of copies. Most people order two to three certified copies to keep extras on file for future needs.
Name Changes After Marriage
A certified marriage certificate proves the legal name change after marriage. Take the certified copy to the Social Security Administration to update the Social Security card. Take the certified copy to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to update the driver license. Banks, employers, and insurance companies also ask for a copy of the marriage certificate for name changes.
Insurance and Tax Filing
Health insurance companies ask for a marriage certificate when adding a spouse to a plan. Life insurance policies ask for proof of marriage for spousal benefits. Tax filings use the marriage certificate to file as married or married filing separately. The IRS accepts a certified copy of the certificate for proof of marital status. Pension plans and retirement accounts ask for proof of marriage for survivor benefits.
Immigration and Spousal Benefits
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services asks for a certified marriage certificate for spousal visa petitions. The document must be in English or come with a certified translation. Some embassies ask for an apostille along with the marriage certificate. Processing times depend on the country and the type of visa. The certificate must be less than one year old for most immigration filings.
Marriage Records by Name, County, and Date
People often search marriage records using different details. The most common search methods include searching by full name, by county where the marriage took place, and by the date or year of the marriage. Each search method works for different situations. The Broward County Clerk search portal supports all three search types. The statewide Florida index also supports name and date searches.
Marriage Records by Name
Search by last name and first name on the Broward County Clerk portal. The portal returns a list of records that match the name. Check the marriage date and the spouse name to confirm the right record. Records from before 1915 may not appear in the online portal. Older records need a visit to the clerk office or a request to the Florida State Archives.
Marriage Records by County
Florida marriage records are filed in the county where the license was issued. North Lauderdale marriages are filed in Broward County. Each Florida county has its own clerk office that handles records. The statewide index lets you search by county and year. This helps people who know the county but not the exact date of the marriage.
Marriage Records by Date
Search by year or by exact date on both the county portal and the statewide index. The Broward County Clerk portal lets you enter a date range. The statewide index lets you search by year. Date searches work well when the names are common or unclear. Date searches also help confirm the marriage when the record is already on file.
Florida Marriage Records in 2026
Florida marriage records in 2026 follow the same rules as recent years. The license fee remains $86 without a course and $61 with a course. The waiting period stays at three days for Florida residents. The 60-day validity period for licenses has not changed. The clerk office accepts walk-in customers Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Recent Updates to Florida Marriage Laws
Florida law requires both applicants to appear in person at the clerk office. Florida does not allow proxy marriages or marriage by power of attorney. Common-law marriages are not recognized in Florida for couples who started living together after January 1, 1967. Same-sex marriages have been legal in Florida since 2015. Out-of-state couples can marry in Florida without a waiting period.
2026 Fees and Service Times
The 2026 license fee is $86 for standard applicants. The fee is $61 with a completed premarital course. The state search fee is $5. Extra state copies cost $4 each. Certified copies from the county cost $3 each. Civil ceremonies at the clerk office cost $30. Rush processing fees for online orders vary by service level.
North Lauderdale Marriage License Records Search
The North Lauderdale marriage license records search works through the Broward County Clerk portal. License records show applications filed before the ceremony. Certified copies come from the marriage certificate filed after the ceremony. The two records have different uses. License records help check the status of an upcoming marriage. Certificate records prove the marriage already took place.
License Status Checks
People can check the status of a marriage license application by calling the clerk office. The clerk office staff can confirm whether the license was issued. They can confirm whether the ceremony was filed. They can confirm whether the record is ready for pickup. Calls go to (954) 831-7283 during office hours.
Public Marriage Records Access
Florida makes marriage records public under Chapter 119 of Florida Statutes. Anyone can request a copy. The clerk removes Social Security numbers and other private data before issuing the copy. People do not need to be named on the record. People do not need to prove a relationship to the people on the record.
Sample Marriage Certificate Details
A Florida marriage certificate sample includes the seal of the issuing clerk. The seal confirms the document is an official record. The certificate shows the date the clerk filed the record. The certificate shows the signature of the officiant. The certificate shows the signature of at least one witness, when applicable. The certificate shows the license number.
Certified vs. Informational Copy
A certified copy has the raised or stamped seal of the clerk. Banks, courts, and government agencies accept certified copies. An informational copy shows the same data but does not have the seal. Informational copies work for personal records and family history. Most legal matters require a certified copy with the seal.
Lost or Destroyed Certificates
Lost certificates can be replaced through the clerk office or the state vital records office. Destroyed certificates in a disaster can be replaced at a reduced fee. Contact the clerk office for help with lost records. The clerk can search the archives and issue a replacement certified copy. A small fee may apply for replacement certificates.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Broward County Clerk of Courts handles marriage license applications, ceremonies, and certified copies for North Lauderdale residents. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The phone number for the marriage department is (954) 831-7283. The office is closed on Florida state holidays and federal holidays.
Official website: https://www.browardclerk.org/Divisions/Marriage
Address: 540 SE 3rd Avenue, Room 02460, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: (954) 831-7283
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions people ask about North Lauderdale marriage records. Each answer gives clear facts based on Florida law and current clerk office rules. People who need more help should call the Broward County Clerk office at (954) 831-7283 during business hours. Walk-in visitors can go to Room 02460 of the Midrise Building in Fort Lauderdale.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certified Copy
Walk-in requests at the Broward County Clerk office give you the certified copy the same day. Mail requests take about 7 to 10 business days to arrive. Online orders through VitalChek take about 5 to 10 business days. Rush services cost extra and can speed up mail and online orders. The clerk office also offers next-day pickup for online orders placed before noon on business days.
Can I Get a Marriage Record If I Am Not Named on It
Yes. Florida marriage records are public under Florida Statutes Chapter 119. Any person can order a copy. The clerk removes Social Security numbers and other private data before issuing the copy. You do not need to prove a relationship to the people named on the record. You do not need to give a reason for the request. The fee is the same for everyone.
What if the Marriage Record Is Missing or Wrong
Contact the Broward County Clerk marriage department right away. A wrong date, wrong name, or missing information can be corrected. The clerk may ask for proof of the correct data. A small fee may apply for corrections. Major corrections may need a court order. The clerk staff can guide you through the correction process for both small and large errors on the record.
Are Florida Marriage Records Public for Free
Yes, viewing marriage record indexes online is free. The Broward County Clerk records search and the Florida statewide index do not charge a fee to look up names and dates. Fees apply only when ordering a certified copy of the record. The free search shows the marriage date, license number, and the names of both spouses on the record.
Can I Use a Marriage Certificate From Another State in Florida
Yes. Florida recognizes legal marriages from other U.S. states and U.S. territories. The marriage certificate does not need to be filed in Florida. People moving to North Lauderdale from another state should keep their original marriage certificate in a safe place. Florida residents who got married in another state can order a Florida copy through the county clerk where they live now.
What Is the Difference Between a Marriage License and a Marriage Certificate
A marriage license is the paper that allows a couple to get married. A marriage certificate is the paper filed after the ceremony. The license proves the couple had permission to marry. The certificate proves the marriage already took place. Most people need the certificate for legal matters such as name changes, insurance, and immigration paperwork.
Can I Get Married the Same Day I Apply for the License in North Lauderdale
Florida residents must wait three days after applying. Non-Florida residents do not wait. Completing an approved premarital course removes the waiting period for Florida residents. Couples who qualify can get married on the same day they apply. The civil ceremony at the clerk office is available the same day for couples who meet the requirements.
Authority and Entity Expansion List
The following topics can expand the page’s authority and bring more long-tail search traffic. Each topic links to a real user need. Adding these sections over time will strengthen the page’s topical coverage.
- Detailed walkthrough of the Broward County online portal search screen with screenshots.
- Side-by-side comparison of county clerk service versus Florida Department of Health service.
- Florida marriage statistics by year for Broward County and North Lauderdale area.
- Name change checklist after marriage with links to Social Security, DMV, and banks.
- Guide to U.S. immigration forms that ask for a marriage certificate.
- Florida common-law marriage history and rules for couples who lived together before 1967.
- Religious marriage recognition rules in Florida for ministers, rabbis, and other clergy.
- DNA and genealogy tips for connecting old North Lauderdale families through marriage records.
- Apostille process for each Florida Secretary of State office location.
- Cost comparison table for Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and other nearby state marriage certificates.