Highlands County Florida marriage records are official documents held by two government offices. The Highlands County Clerk of the Circuit Court in Sebring keeps every marriage license issued in the county since 1927.
The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville holds statewide marriage certificates going back to June 6, 1927. People need these records for genealogy research, legal proof of marriage, name changes, and insurance or pension claims. This page explains how to find, request, and order marriage records from both the county and the state.
Highlands County Clerk of Court and Marriage Records
The Highlands County Clerk of the Circuit Court serves as the official record keeper for all marriage licenses issued in the county. The clerk’s office handles new license applications, ceremony scheduling, certified copy requests, and record searches. Located in Sebring, this office is the first stop for anyone who got married in Highlands County or needs proof of a marriage that took place here.
Office Location and Contact Details
The Highlands County Clerk of Court sits at 590 South Commerce Avenue in Sebring, Florida 33870. The courthouse handles all marriage-related services from this address. Visitors can park in the public lot adjacent to the building. The office accepts walk-in customers during regular business hours on weekdays.
Phone Number and Operating Hours
Call the Highlands County Clerk at (863) 402-6565 for questions about marriage records. The office opens Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office closes on weekends and state holidays. Callers should have the full names of both spouses and the approximate marriage year ready before calling.
Who Can Request Marriage Records
Florida law makes marriage records public under Chapter 119. Anyone can ask for a copy without giving a reason. The clerk must allow inspection and copying during business hours. Social Security numbers, bank details, and medical data get redacted from public copies. All other information on the record stays open to view.
How to Get a Marriage License in Highlands County
Couples who want to marry in Highlands County must apply for one at the Sebring courthouse. Florida law sets the rules for who can marry, what documents they need, and how much the license costs. Both applicants must appear in person together. The clerk cannot issue a license to one person alone.
Age and Eligibility Requirements
Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. A 17-year-old can apply with written parental permission, but the other partner cannot be more than two years older. Florida does not require residency or citizenship to get a marriage license. Anyone with valid photo ID can apply at the Highlands County clerk office.
Required Documents for Application
Each applicant must bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Accepted forms include a driver’s license from any state, a U.S. passport, a military ID card, or a state-issued identification card. U.S. citizens also need to provide their Social Security number. If either party was married before, they must tell the clerk the exact date the last marriage ended through death, divorce, or annulment.
Fees and Payment Methods
The marriage license fee in Highlands County is $86 without a premarital preparation course. Couples who complete an approved course pay $61 instead. The fee includes a $25 contribution to the Domestic Violence Trust Fund required by Florida law. Payment methods include cash, money order, and sometimes credit or debit cards. Call ahead to confirm which payment types the office accepts on the day of your visit.
Marriage License Application Process Step by Step
Getting a marriage license in Highlands County takes about 30 to 60 minutes when both partners come prepared. The clerk walks through each section of the application, verifies the IDs, and collects the fee. Both parties sign the affidavit in front of the clerk. A premarital course certificate can lower the fee and remove the waiting period at the same time.
Steps to Apply for a Marriage License
Couples must follow a set order when applying for a marriage license in Sebring. Each step matters for legal approval.
- Both partners visit the Highlands County Clerk office at 590 S. Commerce Ave., Sebring during business hours.
- Bring valid photo ID for each person and Social Security numbers for U.S. citizens.
- Provide the date any prior marriage ended if either partner was married before.
- Read the Family Law Handbook from the Florida Bar as required by law.
- Sign the marriage license affidavit in front of the clerk.
- Pay the $86 fee or $61 with a valid premarital course certificate.
- Wait three days if a Florida resident without a course, or use the license right away if non-resident or course-taker.
- Hold the ceremony within 60 days using an authorized officiant.
- Return the signed license to the Highlands County clerk within 10 days after the ceremony.
Waiting Period Rules for Florida Residents
Florida residents who skip the premarital course must wait three days between getting the license and the ceremony. The three-day clock starts the day after the license issues. Out-of-state residents have no waiting period. Couples with a valid premarital course certificate skip the wait regardless of residency. The course must finish within one year before the license application under Florida Statute 741.0305.
License Validity and Where to Use It
A Highlands County marriage license stays valid for 60 days from the issue date. Couples can use it anywhere in Florida. The license expires automatically after 60 days if unused. After the ceremony, the officiant signs the license and returns it to the Highlands County clerk within 10 days. The clerk records it and sends the data to the state for permanent storage.
Marriage License Fees and Premarital Course Details
Florida law gives couples a fee break for taking an approved premarital preparation course. The course teaches communication, conflict resolution, and financial responsibility. Providers include clergy, licensed counselors, and approved online programs. A valid certificate removes the three-day wait and drops the license fee.
Standard Fee Without Course
The base fee for a Highlands County marriage license is $86. This total includes the state filing fee, the clerk’s processing charge, and the $25 Domestic Violence Trust Fund contribution. Florida law caps what counties can charge for marriage licenses. Highlands County charges the maximum allowed under current law.
Reduced Fee With Course Certificate
Couples who complete an approved course pay $61 instead of $86. The course provider issues a certificate after completion. The certificate must show the provider’s credentials and the completion date. The course must finish within one year before applying. Bringing the original certificate to the clerk’s office at the time of application gives the discount.
Ceremony Fee at the Clerk Office
Couples who want a civil ceremony at the Highlands County clerk office pay $30 for the officiant. The ceremony happens right after the license issues. Witnesses are not required for civil ceremonies in Florida. The clerk’s office schedules ceremony times during business hours based on staff availability.
Who Can Perform a Marriage Ceremony in Florida
Florida Statute 741.07 lists the people authorized to perform marriage ceremonies. The officiant must be one of the approved categories. Couples should confirm their officiant’s status before the wedding day.
Authorized Officiants in Florida
Ordained ministers, rabbis, priests, and other clergy of any religion can perform marriages in Florida. Judges and Florida Supreme Court justices have authority to officiate. Clerks of court and their deputies can perform ceremonies. Florida notaries public can also officiate weddings. Active and retired military chaplains fall under federal authority for on-base ceremonies.
Officiant Registration in Highlands County
Highlands County does not require pre-registration of officiants. The officiant signs the marriage license after the ceremony and returns it to the clerk. The clerk verifies the officiant’s status when recording the document. Couples should pick someone whose credentials are clear and documented.
Searching Highlands County Marriage Records by Name
The Highlands County clerk office handles name-based searches for marriage records. There is no public online search portal for Highlands County specifically at this time. Callers and visitors can ask the clerk to look up records by full name and approximate date. The clerk staff performs the search using the office’s record system.
Records Before June 1927
Marriage records from before June 6, 1927, stay only with the Highlands County clerk. The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics did not start statewide recording until that date. Older records may be handwritten and harder to read. Researchers working on genealogy before 1927 must contact the county clerk directly for help.
Records From 1927 to Present
The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics holds marriage certificates from June 1927 forward. These records cover every Florida county, including Highlands. A state certificate shows both names, the marriage date, and the county where the license issued. The state data comes from the county clerks through monthly transfers. New marriages take about 60 days to appear in the state database.
Marriage Records by Year and Date
The clerk office can search by year or exact date when the approximate marriage year is known. Callers should provide both surnames and the year range. The clerk charges standard copy fees for each record located. Searching multiple years costs more under state fee rules.
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics State Records
The Florida Department of Health Bureau of Vital Statistics holds the state’s official marriage certificate database. Located in Jacksonville, this office issues certified copies of Florida marriage records from 1927 to the present. The state office covers records from all 67 Florida counties. Highlands County marriage records show up in the state database about 60 days after the county clerk records them.
What the State Office Holds
The Bureau of Vital Statistics keeps an abstract of each marriage license. The abstract shows both spouses’ full names, the marriage date, the county where the license issued, and the license number. State records do not include the officiant’s name or witness signatures. The state certificate works for most legal purposes, including name changes and federal benefits.
How to Order State Certificates
Customers can order state marriage certificates by mail, in person, or online through VitalChek. Mail orders use the Florida Department of Health application form. Walk-in customers visit the Jacksonville office at 1217 North Pearl Street. Online orders go through VitalChek, the state’s contracted vendor. Each method has different processing times and fees.
State Fees and Processing Times
The state fee is $5 for a one-year search and one certified copy. Extra copies of the same record cost $4 each. Each additional year searched costs $2, with a maximum search charge of $50. VitalChek adds a $7 processing fee plus UPS shipping costs. Standard processing takes 5 to 10 business days by mail. Expedited shipping and rush processing cost extra.
Online Search Options for Highlands County Records
Several online tools help people search for Florida marriage records. Some are free, and others charge fees. Knowing which tool fits the situation saves time and money.
My Florida County Records Portal
The My Florida County Records portal at myfloridacounty.com covers official records from many Florida counties. Users can search by name and date for marriage licenses recorded in participating counties. The portal shows basic record data and links to order certified copies. Coverage varies by county, so results for Highlands County may be limited.
VitalChek Online Ordering
VitalChek is the official third-party vendor for Florida vital records. Customers order through vitalchek.com and pay the state fee plus processing charges. The system accepts credit and debit cards. UPS delivers the certified copy. VitalChek orders move faster than mail-in applications for those who need records quickly.
Third-Party Genealogy Websites
Sites like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch, and MyHeritage host Florida marriage indexes. These indexes come from historical records and user submissions. They work for genealogy research but lack legal standing. For official purposes, order certified copies from the county clerk or state office. Third-party data may have gaps and errors.
Requesting Certified Copies of Marriage Records
A certified copy of a marriage record carries the official seal and signature of the issuing office. Certified copies work for legal name changes, immigration papers, Social Security updates, pension claims, and insurance matters. Regular printouts or database views do not carry the same legal weight.
What Makes a Copy Certified
A certified copy bears the raised or stamped seal of the issuing office. The clerk or state registrar signs the document. The seal and signature prove the copy came from the official record. Uncertified printouts only show the data without legal proof of authenticity.
Who Can Request Certified Copies
Any person listed on the marriage record can order a certified copy. Immediate family members, legal representatives, and anyone with a court order can also request certified copies. Florida law allows public access to view records, but certified copies have stricter rules. The clerk verifies the requester’s identity before issuing a certified copy.
Fees for Certified Copies
Highlands County charges between $2.50 and $9 for the first certified copy of a marriage record. Each additional copy at the same order costs less. State certificates cost $5 for the first copy and $4 for extras. Payment methods vary by office. Call ahead to confirm accepted payment types for certified copy orders.
Florida Marriage Laws and Statutes
Florida marriage law sits in Chapter 741 of the Florida Statutes. This chapter covers licenses, ceremonies, officiants, and records. Knowing the basic rules helps couples and researchers avoid mistakes.
Chapter 741 Overview
Chapter 741 covers marriage licenses, waiting periods, age requirements, prohibited marriages, and officiant authority. Section 741.01 gives county clerks the power to issue licenses when no legal reason exists to deny them. Section 741.04 requires both parties to sign an affidavit with correct ages. Section 741.041 sets the 60-day license validity period.
Public Access Under Chapter 119
Florida’s Public Records Act in Chapter 119 makes marriage records open to the public. Section 119.07 requires record custodians to allow inspection and copying at reasonable times. Marriage records fall under public access laws. The clerk must release records to anyone who asks, with limited redactions for sensitive personal data.
Information Redacted From Public Copies
Section 119.071 protects certain data from public release. Social Security numbers get redacted. Bank account numbers and financial data stay private. Medical information on the record stays sealed. All other details, including names, dates, and county, remain open. The clerk removes protected data before releasing public copies.
Highlands County Courthouse Details and Map
The Highlands County Clerk of Court serves as the main office for marriage records in the county. Visitors can find parking, plan their route, and confirm office hours using the details below.
Highlands County Clerk of the Circuit Court
590 South Commerce Avenue
Sebring, Florida 33870
Phone: (863) 402-6565
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: highlandsclerkfl.gov
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics
1217 North Pearl Street
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
Phone: (904) 359-6900
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: floridahealth.gov/certificates-records
Official Websites:
Highlands County Clerk: https://www.highlandsclerkfl.gov/
Florida Department of Health Vital Records: https://www.floridahealth.gov/certificates-records/
VitalChek Florida Orders: https://www.vitalchek.com/v/marriage-records/florida
Nearby Counties for Cross-County Marriage Searches
Highlands County borders several counties in central Florida. Marriage records from neighboring counties may help when a couple lived near county lines or moved across them. Each county has its own clerk office with separate procedures and fees.
Neighboring County Clerk Offices
The counties around Highlands County each keep their own marriage records. Researchers should check neighboring counties when the exact marriage county is unclear or when family members moved frequently.
- DeSoto County Clerk: 115 East Oak Street, Arcadia, FL 34266, (863) 993-4876
- Glades County Clerk: 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, FL 33471, (863) 946-6010
- Hardee County Clerk: 417 West Main Street, Wauchula, FL 33873, (863) 773-4161
- Okeechobee County Clerk: 312 Northwest 3rd Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972, (863) 763-2131
- Osceola County Clerk: 2 Courthouse Square, Kissimmee, FL 34741, (407) 742-3500
- Polk County Clerk: 255 North Broadway Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830, (863) 534-4000
When to Check Multiple Counties
Check neighboring counties when the marriage location is unknown. Older couples may have married in a different county than where they lived. Court records, family letters, and old documents sometimes give clues to the actual location. FamilySearch and Ancestry indexes help narrow down the search before contacting each county clerk.
Marriage Records for Genealogy Research
Genealogy researchers use marriage records to trace family lines, verify relationships, and fill gaps in family trees. Florida marriage records from 1927 forward include parents’ names on some older records. Pre-1927 records may only show the couple’s names and the officiant.
What Genealogy Researchers Need
Researchers should start with the full names of both spouses and an estimated marriage year. Knowing the county or city helps narrow the search. Census records, family Bibles, and old newspaper announcements give clues. The clerk office can search multiple years when the exact date is unknown, but the search fee increases with each year.
Historical Marriage Records Access
Records older than 75 years may have different access rules in some states, but Florida follows its public records law for marriage records of all ages. Anyone can request a copy of any Florida marriage record, regardless of how old it is. Older records may be in handwritten ledgers that are harder to read. The clerk can help locate and read these older documents.
Marriage License Application Tips for Highlands County
Planning ahead makes the marriage license process smoother. Couples who prepare their documents, understand the fees, and know the timeline avoid delays. A small mistake on the application can hold up the license for days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Couples should double-check every detail on the application before signing. Misspelled names, wrong birth dates, and incorrect prior marriage end dates cause processing delays. Social Security numbers must match the person’s legal name. The clerk rejects applications with mismatched data and asks for corrections before issuing the license.
What to Bring to the Clerk Office
Bring valid photo ID for both partners, Social Security numbers for U.S. citizens, prior divorce decrees or death certificates if applicable, and the premarital course certificate if completed. Payment should be in cash or money order if the office does not accept cards. Arrive early to avoid long wait times near the end of the day.
After the Ceremony Returns
The officiant returns the signed marriage license to the Highlands County clerk within 10 days of the ceremony. The clerk records it and sends a free certified copy to the couple. Keep the certified copy in a safe place. Order extras if needed for Social Security updates, name changes, and insurance paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions About Highlands County Marriage Records
The questions below cover the most searched topics about Highlands County Florida marriage records. These answers reflect current Florida law and county clerk procedures as of 2026. Rules and fees can change, so verify with the clerk’s office before placing an order.
How much does a marriage license cost in Highlands County?
A marriage license in Highlands County costs $86 without a premarital course certificate. Couples who complete an approved course pay $61 instead. The fee includes a $25 contribution to the Domestic Violence Trust Fund required by Florida law. Cash, money order, and sometimes credit cards work for payment at the clerk office in Sebring.
How long is a Highlands County marriage license valid?
A marriage license in Highlands County stays valid for 60 days from the issue date under Florida Statute 741.041. Couples must hold the ceremony within that window. The license expires automatically after 60 days if unused. Unused licenses cannot be refunded or extended. Couples must apply for a new license if the original expires before the ceremony.
Can non-residents get married in Highlands County?
Yes, non-residents can apply for a marriage license at the Highlands County clerk office. Florida does not require residency for marriage licenses. Both partners need valid photo ID. Non-residents skip the three-day waiting period that applies to Florida residents who do not complete a premarital course. The license can be used anywhere in Florida for 60 days.
How do I get a certified copy of a Highlands County marriage certificate?
Request a certified copy from the Highlands County Clerk of Court in person, by mail, or by phone. The clerk charges between $2.50 and $9 for the first certified copy. Provide the full names of both spouses and the approximate marriage year. The clerk verifies the record and issues a copy with the official seal and signature.
Where can I find Florida marriage records online for free?
The My Florida County Records portal at myfloridacounty.com offers free searches for some Florida counties. FamilySearch hosts free indexes of Florida marriage records for genealogy. Ancestry.com and MyHeritage charge subscription fees for full record access. Free online searches may not include all years and may lack official certification for legal use.
How long does it take to receive a marriage certificate from the state?
Mail orders from the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics take 5 to 10 business days after processing. VitalChek online orders ship via UPS and arrive faster. Walk-in customers at the Jacksonville office can get certificates the same day in some cases. Allow extra time during peak seasons and holidays when processing slows down.
Can I get married the same day I apply for the license?
Florida residents without a premarital course must wait three days before the wedding. Non-residents and course graduates can marry the same day. The license issues right away and the ceremony can happen immediately at the clerk’s office for a $30 fee or at any approved location with an authorized officiant.