Marriage License Information

A Texas Marriage License is required for legal recognition of a marriage performed in the state of Texas.  It must be signed by the Minister/Officiant and filed with the County Clerks office.

Issuing a marriage license is the duty of the County Clerk and can be obtained in any county in Texas.  Office hours are normally from 8:00 AM until 4:30 PM – Monday through Friday.  No licenses are issued after 4:00 PM and some close for lunch.  You may want to call before going.  You must obtain the license at least 3 days (72 hours) prior to ceremony and it is only valid for 30 days.  The ceremony must be performed within that time.

THE COST of a license may vary from county to county.  In Dallas and Tarrant County the cost is$71.00.  However, the $60 (state fee) may be waived for couples who attend an approved 8-hour marriage preparation workshop.   Information may be obtained by contacting the county clerk’s office or www.TwogetherinTexas.com.

The following are some of the basic requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Texas

• The bride and groom must appear together and both sign the application
• Each applicant must indicate that he or she has not been divorced within the last 30 days, unless the applicants were divorced from each other
• Be at least 18 years of age – If you are under 18 many restrictions apply
• Each applicant must submit one of the following:
  • A valid picture drivers license
  • Texas Identification Card
  • Valid Military ID Card if over 18 years of age
  • Certified copy of your birth certificate
  • Government picture ID
  • *All documents must be in English
• You must know your:
  • Social security number
  • Place of birth: City – County – State
• Obtain license at least 3 days (72 hours) prior to ceremony
• License is valid for 30 days and ceremony must be performed within that time
• No waiting period for military personnel. Military ID required.
• No blood tests in Texas
  Note: Certain special circumstances may require additional documents.  Call Co. Clerk.