How do I get a marriage license in Texas?

Texas requires in-person application at a county clerk's office and enforces a three-day waiting period.

1. Where to Apply

Any Texas county clerk (Tex. Fam. Code § 2.001) — not limited to the marriage county.

Both parties must appear together.

2. ID and Documents

Government-issued photo ID plus Social Security number (or affidavit if none).

If divorced within 30 days, certified divorce decree waiver required (Tex. Fam. Code § 2.302).

3. Fees

$60-$85 typical; full fee waived with completion of an approved 8-hour Twogether in Texas premarital course (Tex. Fam. Code § 2.013).

4. Waiting Period and Expiration

72-hour waiting period between issuance and ceremony (Tex. Fam. Code § 2.204).

Waivable for active-duty military or by court order showing good cause.

License expires 90 days after issuance (Tex. Fam. Code § 2.201).

5. Age and Residency

18 minimum. Minors aged 16-17 require a court order (Tex. Fam. Code § 2.103); under-16 marriage prohibited since 2017 reforms.

No residency requirement.

6. Blood Test and Same-Sex Marriage

No blood test required.

Same-sex marriage recognized statewide following Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), despite Texas's prior § 2.001(b) ban.

This is legal information, not legal advice.