How to Get a Marriage License in San Antonio

Getting a marriage license in San Antonio is a vital legal step for couples planning to tie the knot in Bexar County, Texas. Unlike a wedding ceremony, which is a personal or religious celebration, a marriage license is a government-issued document that legally recognizes your union. Without it, your marriage is not valid under Texas law—even if you’ve had a beautiful ceremony with family, friends, and vows exchanged under the stars. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to obtain a marriage license in San Antonio, including eligibility requirements, documentation, fees, waiting periods, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re a local resident or traveling from out of state, this resource ensures you’re fully prepared to navigate the process efficiently and confidently.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Requirements

Before you begin the application process, both parties must meet Texas state requirements for marriage. These are non-negotiable and apply to all couples regardless of residency status. To be eligible for a marriage license in San Antonio:

• Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If either party is 16 or 17, parental consent and a court order are required. Minors under 16 cannot marry under any circumstances.
• Neither party can be currently married to someone else. Texas law prohibits bigamy. If previously married, you must provide proof of dissolution (divorce decree or death certificate) of the prior marriage.
• Both parties must be mentally competent and capable of consenting to marriage.
• Couples must not be closely related by blood or adoption. Texas prohibits marriage between ancestors and descendants, siblings (including half-siblings), aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews.
• There is no requirement for either party to be a Texas resident. Out-of-state couples can apply for and receive a marriage license in San Antonio.

It’s important to note that Texas does not recognize common-law marriages as a substitute for a licensed marriage unless specific legal criteria are met after the fact. For immediate legal recognition, a licensed marriage is required.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To complete your application, you’ll need to bring original, government-issued identification and supporting documents. Photocopies or digital versions are not accepted. The following documents are mandatory:

• Valid photo ID: A current driver’s license, state-issued ID card, U.S. passport, military ID, or consular ID from your country of origin.
• Social Security Number: You must provide your Social Security number. While you don’t need to bring the physical card, you’ll be asked to state it during the application. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must complete and sign a sworn affidavit explaining why.
• Proof of prior marriage dissolution (if applicable): If either party was previously married, you must present the original or certified copy of the divorce decree, annulment decree, or death certificate of the former spouse. If the document is in a language other than English, a certified translation must accompany it.
• Parental consent forms (for minors aged 16–17): These must be notarized and include court approval. Minors cannot apply without this documentation.

It’s strongly advised to bring two forms of ID if possible—this helps expedite the process and reduces the chance of delays due to document discrepancies. If your name has changed due to divorce or other legal proceedings, ensure your current ID reflects that change, or bring documentation proving the legal name change.

Step 3: Visit the Bexar County Clerk’s Office

The only official location to apply for a marriage license in San Antonio is the Bexar County Clerk’s Office. There are two convenient locations:

• Main Office: 101 W. Nueva St., San Antonio, TX 78205 (Bexar County Courthouse)
• Northwest Office: 11555 W. IH-10, San Antonio, TX 78216 (Bexar County Northwest Annex)

Both offices operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and are closed on weekends and county holidays. The Main Office is typically busier, especially on Fridays and around holidays, so the Northwest location is often a better choice for faster service.

Appointments are not required, but they are highly recommended to avoid long wait times. You can schedule an appointment online via the Bexar County Clerk’s official website. Walk-ins are accepted, but during peak seasons (spring and fall), wait times can exceed two hours.

Upon arrival, you’ll be directed to the Marriage License window. Both parties must be present. No proxies, representatives, or third parties are allowed to apply on behalf of either person.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

At the counter, you’ll be provided with a marriage license application form. This form collects personal information including:

• Full legal names (as they appear on ID)
• Date and place of birth
• Current addresses
• Parents’ full names (including mother’s maiden name)
• Occupations
• Number of prior marriages and their dissolution status
• Consent declarations

Both applicants must fill out and sign the form in the presence of a clerk. Accuracy is critical—any errors in names, dates, or spellings can delay or invalidate the license. Double-check all entries before submission. The clerk will review your information and may ask clarifying questions.

If you’re applying as a non-U.S. citizen, you’ll be asked to provide your country of citizenship and immigration status. A visa or green card is not required to obtain a marriage license, but your ID must be valid and recognized by the state.

Step 5: Pay the Fee

The standard fee for a marriage license in Bexar County is $81. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application. Accepted payment methods include cash, credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover), and debit card. Personal checks and money orders are not accepted.

There is a discount available for couples who complete a state-approved premarital education course. If you’ve completed a qualifying course within the past year, you can present your certificate to reduce the fee to $21. These courses are offered by certified providers such as churches, community centers, and online platforms like Texas Premarital Education. The course typically takes 4–8 hours and covers communication, conflict resolution, and financial planning for marriage.

It’s worth noting that the fee covers only the license—not the ceremony. If you plan to have a civil ceremony performed by a county official, an additional $15 fee applies and must be paid separately.

Step 6: Wait the 72-Hour Waiting Period

Texas law mandates a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between the issuance of the marriage license and the legal performance of the wedding ceremony. This means you cannot get married on the same day you receive the license, even if you’ve completed a premarital course.

The 72-hour clock begins at the exact time the license is issued. For example, if you receive your license at 2:00 p.m. on a Tuesday, you can legally marry at 2:00 p.m. on Friday. The waiting period does not include the day the license is issued, but it does include weekends and holidays.

There are three exceptions to the 72-hour rule:

• You’ve completed a qualifying premarital education course (reduces waiting period to 24 hours).
• You’re an active-duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Texas or deployed.
• A judge grants a waiver due to emergency circumstances (e.g., terminal illness).

If you’re eligible for a waiver, you must file a formal request with the Bexar County District Court. This process requires a notarized affidavit and may involve a court appearance. It’s not guaranteed and should not be relied upon unless absolutely necessary.

Step 7: Get Married Within 90 Days

Your marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. You must hold your wedding ceremony within this window. If you do not marry within 90 days, the license expires and becomes void. You’ll need to reapply and pay the fee again.

There is no requirement to get married in San Antonio or even in Texas. Once issued, your license is valid for ceremonies performed anywhere in the state. However, the license must be returned to the Bexar County Clerk’s Office after the ceremony by the officiant who performed it. If you’re using a religious officiant or a friend who has been ordained, ensure they understand their responsibilities. Most ordained officiants will handle the return, but it’s your duty to confirm this before the ceremony.

Step 8: Return the Completed License

After the ceremony, the officiant must complete and sign the marriage license, including their name, title, signature, and the date and location of the ceremony. They must then return the original document to the Bexar County Clerk’s Office within 30 days.

If the license is not returned on time, your marriage will not be officially recorded, and you will not receive a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This can cause complications with name changes, immigration, insurance, and tax filings.

You can track the status of your license return online via the Bexar County Clerk’s website. Once recorded, you can request certified copies for $5 each. These are essential documents for changing your name on bank accounts, Social Security, driver’s license, and other legal records.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead

Many couples underestimate the time required to obtain a marriage license and schedule their wedding accordingly. To avoid last-minute stress, begin the process at least two weeks before your desired wedding date. This gives you time to gather documents, complete a premarital course (if desired), and secure your officiant. Avoid scheduling your ceremony on a Friday or just before a holiday—these are peak days at the clerk’s office.

Double-Check All Information

One of the most common reasons for delays is incorrect or inconsistent information. Ensure your legal name on your ID matches your birth certificate, divorce decree, or court-ordered name change documents. If your name has changed since your last marriage, bring all supporting documents. Even a minor typo—such as “Jeniffer” instead of “Jennifer”—can cause the license to be rejected.

Bring Extra Copies

Always bring at least two copies of every document, even if you’re only asked for originals. Clerks may need to make notes or photocopies for internal records, and having backups prevents delays. Keep digital scans on your phone as a fallback.

Coordinate with Your Officiant

Before your ceremony, confirm with your officiant that they are authorized to perform marriages in Texas. Ministers, priests, rabbis, judges, and court clerks are all authorized. Friends or family members must be legally ordained through a recognized organization (e.g., Universal Life Church, American Marriage Ministries). Ensure they understand the process for completing and returning the license.

Consider a Premarital Course

Not only does completing a premarital education course reduce your license fee by $60, but it also provides valuable tools for building a strong marriage. Many couples report improved communication and conflict resolution skills after taking the course. The state offers a list of approved providers on its website. Online courses are convenient and often self-paced, taking as little as four hours to complete.

Keep the License Secure

Your marriage license is a legal document. Treat it like cash. Store it in a secure location until the ceremony. Do not leave it unattended in a car, bag, or hotel room. If lost or damaged, you must apply for a duplicate—this requires a court order and additional fees.

Understand the Difference Between License and Certificate

A marriage license is the permission to marry. A marriage certificate is the official record that you did marry. After your ceremony, the license becomes the certificate once filed. You’ll need certified copies of the certificate for legal purposes. Request them immediately after your wedding—processing can take 2–4 weeks.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: Bexar County Clerk’s Office

The primary resource for all marriage license information is the official Bexar County Clerk’s website: https://www.bexar.org/193/Marriage-Licenses. This site provides:

• Office hours and locations
• Fee schedules
• Application form preview
• List of approved premarital course providers
• Online appointment scheduling
• License status tracking

Texas Department of State Health Services

The Texas DSHS oversees marriage laws statewide. Their website offers detailed information on legal requirements, name changes after marriage, and how to obtain certified copies of marriage certificates: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vital-statistics/marriage.

Premarital Education Providers

Several organizations offer state-approved premarital courses:

• Texas Premarital Education: https://www.txpremarital.com – Online, self-paced, $30–$50
• Marriage Matters San Antonio: In-person and virtual classes offered by local churches and nonprofits
• Love and Respect Marriage Course: Faith-based curriculum with state approval

Many churches in San Antonio offer free or low-cost premarital counseling that qualifies for the fee discount. Ask your officiant or wedding planner for recommendations.

Mobile Apps and Digital Tools

Use these tools to streamline your planning:

• Google Calendar: Set reminders for the 72-hour waiting period and 90-day expiration date.
• Evernote or Notion: Create a checklist with all documents, contacts, and deadlines.
• Dropbox or Google Drive: Store digital copies of IDs, certificates, and applications.
• Marriage License Tracker (iOS/Android): A simple app that calculates your waiting period and expiration date based on your application date.

Legal Aid and Translation Services

If you or your partner are non-native English speakers, Bexar County offers free translation assistance at the clerk’s office. You can also contact the Office of International Relations for support with international documentation.

Real Examples

Example 1: Out-of-State Couple Planning a Destination Wedding

Jessica and Marcus live in Colorado but chose San Antonio for their wedding because of family ties and the Alamo’s historic significance. They applied for their license at the Northwest Annex on a Tuesday morning. They brought their Colorado driver’s licenses, Social Security cards, and Marcus’s divorce decree from 2020. They completed a 6-hour online premarital course two weeks prior, which reduced their fee to $21. They scheduled their ceremony for Friday at 4:00 p.m.—exactly 72 hours after receiving the license. Their officiant, a friend ordained online, returned the license within 10 days. Jessica received her certified marriage certificate via mail in three weeks and used it to update her name on her bank accounts and passport.

Example 2: Local Couple with a Prior Marriage

Carlos and Elena are both San Antonio residents. Carlos was previously married and divorced in 2018. He had his divorce decree notarized and brought the original certified copy. Elena had never been married. They applied on a Wednesday and waited the full 72 hours. Their ceremony was held at a garden venue on Saturday. Because they didn’t complete a premarital course, they paid the full $81 fee. They requested two certified copies of their marriage certificate—one for their taxes and one for Elena’s employer’s benefits enrollment.

Example 3: Military Couple with a Waiver

Army Specialist Ramirez and his fiancée, a nurse stationed at Brooke Army Medical Center, wanted to marry before his deployment. They applied for a 72-hour waiver due to military service. They submitted a letter from their unit commander verifying active duty status and a notarized affidavit. A judge approved the waiver within 48 hours. They received their license the same day and were married the next morning at the courthouse. The waiver process took extra time but allowed them to marry before deployment.

Example 4: International Couple

Diego from Mexico and Sophie from Germany traveled to San Antonio to marry. Diego presented his Mexican passport and consular ID. Sophie used her German passport and a certified English translation of her birth certificate. Neither had a Social Security number, so they completed the affidavit explaining why. They applied at the Main Office, waited 72 hours, and married at a chapel in the Pearl District. Their license was returned by the officiant, and they received their certified certificate by mail. They later used it to apply for a U.S. spousal visa.

FAQs

Can I get a marriage license in San Antonio if I’m not a Texas resident?

Yes. Texas law allows any couple to apply for a marriage license in any county, regardless of residency. You do not need to live in Texas to marry here.

Do both people need to be present to apply?

Yes. Both applicants must appear in person at the clerk’s office. No exceptions are made for illness, travel, or scheduling conflicts.

Can I apply for a marriage license online?

No. Texas does not allow online applications. You must appear in person at the Bexar County Clerk’s Office. However, you can schedule your appointment and preview the application form online.

What if one of us is in jail or hospitalized?

If one party is incarcerated or hospitalized, you can request a special accommodation. Contact the Bexar County Clerk’s Office directly to arrange for a mobile notary or court appearance. This requires documentation from the facility and may take additional time to process.

Can I use a fake name or alias on the application?

No. All information must be truthful and match government-issued identification. Providing false information is a Class A misdemeanor and can result in criminal charges.

Is there a blood test requirement?

No. Texas eliminated the blood test requirement for marriage licenses in 1997. It is no longer necessary.

Can I get married the same day I get my license?

Only if you qualify for a waiver (premarital course, military service, or judicial exception). Otherwise, the 72-hour waiting period applies.

What happens if I lose my marriage license?

If you lose the license before the ceremony, you must return to the clerk’s office and request a duplicate. You’ll need to pay a $5 fee and provide proof of identity. If lost after the ceremony, you must request a certified copy of the marriage certificate instead.

How long does it take to get a certified marriage certificate after the ceremony?

Typically 2–4 weeks. You can request expedited service for an additional fee, which reduces processing to 5–7 business days.

Can I change my name after marriage without a certificate?

No. Most institutions—including banks, DMV, and employers—require a certified copy of your marriage certificate to process a legal name change. A marriage license alone is insufficient.

Are same-sex marriages recognized in San Antonio?

Yes. Since the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage has been legal and fully recognized in Texas and all U.S. counties.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in San Antonio is a straightforward process when you’re prepared. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the correct documents, respecting the waiting period, and coordinating with your officiant, you can ensure your marriage is legally recognized without unnecessary delays or complications. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor drawn to the city’s rich culture and historic charm, the Bexar County Clerk’s Office is ready to help you begin this new chapter.

The key to success lies in planning ahead, verifying every detail, and using the available resources wisely. Don’t underestimate the importance of the 72-hour waiting period or the 90-day validity window. And remember—completing a premarital course isn’t just a cost-saving trick; it’s an investment in your future together.

Once your license is filed and your certificate is issued, you’ll have the legal foundation for countless life milestones: joint bank accounts, tax filings, health insurance, immigration petitions, and more. Take pride in this milestone. It’s not just a formality—it’s the beginning of your shared legal and emotional journey.

With this guide, you now have everything you need to navigate the process confidently. Gather your documents, schedule your appointment, and step forward into marriage with clarity, care, and celebration.