Get Married in Texas Paperwork
Getting Married in Texas: Understanding the Paperwork
When planning a wedding in Texas, there are several steps that couples must take to ensure that their marriage is legally recognized. One of the most important aspects of getting married in Texas is completing the necessary paperwork. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a marriage license and completing the required paperwork to get married in Texas.
Obtaining a Marriage License
To get married in Texas, couples must obtain a marriage license from a county clerk’s office. The marriage license is a legal document that confirms that the couple has met the requirements to get married in the state of Texas. To obtain a marriage license, couples must:
- Be at least 18 years old (or 16 with parental consent)
- Provide a valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license or passport)
- Provide a social security number
- Pay the marriage license fee (which varies by county)
📝 Note: The marriage license is only valid for 90 days, so couples should plan to get married within that timeframe.
Required Documents
To obtain a marriage license in Texas, couples will need to provide several documents, including:
- A valid government-issued ID
- A social security number
- A birth certificate (if the couple is under 25 years old)
- A divorce or death certificate (if either partner has been previously married)
Completing the Marriage License Application
The marriage license application is a straightforward process that requires couples to provide basic information about themselves and their relationship. The application will ask for:
- Names and addresses of the couple
- Dates of birth and ages
- Social security numbers
- Information about previous marriages (if applicable)
Waiting Period
In Texas, there is a 72-hour waiting period between the time the marriage license is issued and the time the couple can get married. This waiting period is designed to give couples time to think about their decision and ensure that they are making an informed choice.
Getting Married
Once the waiting period has passed, the couple can get married. The marriage ceremony can be performed by a variety of officials, including judges, ministers, and justices of the peace. The couple will need to bring their marriage license and a witness to the ceremony.
Returning the Marriage License
After the ceremony, the couple must return the completed marriage license to the county clerk’s office within 30 days. The county clerk’s office will then record the marriage and provide the couple with a certified copy of the marriage certificate.
Document | Description |
---|---|
Marriage License | A legal document that confirms that the couple has met the requirements to get married in Texas |
Marriage Certificate | A certified document that confirms that the couple is married |
Divorce or Death Certificate | A document that confirms that a previous marriage has been dissolved or that a spouse has passed away |
Maintaining Records
It’s essential for couples to maintain accurate records of their marriage, including their marriage license and marriage certificate. These documents may be required for various purposes, such as:
- Obtaining a passport
- Applying for a mortgage
- Filing taxes
- Obtaining insurance benefits
📝 Note: Couples should keep their marriage records in a safe and secure location, such as a fireproof safe or a secure online storage service.
In summary, getting married in Texas requires couples to obtain a marriage license, complete the necessary paperwork, and return the completed marriage license to the county clerk’s office. By understanding the process and maintaining accurate records, couples can ensure that their marriage is legally recognized and that they are prepared for their future together.
What is the waiting period for getting married in Texas?
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The waiting period for getting married in Texas is 72 hours.
How long is a marriage license valid in Texas?
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A marriage license is valid for 90 days in Texas.
What documents are required to obtain a marriage license in Texas?
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Couples will need to provide a valid government-issued ID, social security number, and birth certificate (if under 25 years old).