How to Legally Get Married in Texas
Embarking on the journey of marriage is a significant milestone in one’s life, and it’s crucial to ensure that the process is conducted legally and according to the state’s regulations. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Texas, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements and steps involved to make sure your marriage is recognized and valid. This article will guide you through the process of how to legally get married in Texas.
1. Check the Legal Age for Marriage
The first step in getting legally married in Texas is to ensure that both parties are of legal age. According to Texas law, the minimum age for marriage without parental consent is 18 for both males and females. If either partner is under 18, they must obtain parental consent or meet certain exceptions, such as being pregnant or having a child.
2. Obtain a Marriage License
To legally marry in Texas, you must obtain a marriage license from the county clerk’s office in the county where you plan to get married. Both parties must appear in person to apply for the license, and you will need to provide identification, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID. The fee for a marriage license varies by county, so it’s best to check with your local county clerk’s office for the specific amount.
3. Wait for the License to Become Valid
After obtaining the marriage license, you must wait at least 72 hours before getting married, except in certain circumstances. If you’re getting married in a religious ceremony, you can wait the required 72 hours after obtaining the license or you can wait until the next business day if you’re getting married at a court or justice of the peace office.
4. Choose a Witness
In Texas, you must have two witnesses present at your wedding ceremony. These witnesses can be anyone over the age of 18, and they must sign the marriage license as witnesses to the marriage.
5. Get Married
Once you’ve met all the legal requirements, you can proceed with the wedding ceremony. The officiant, who can be a judge, justice of the peace, or a licensed or ordained minister, will perform the marriage ceremony. After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license, and you will receive a copy.
6. Mail the Marriage License
After the ceremony, the officiant must mail the signed marriage license back to the county clerk’s office. The county clerk will then record the marriage and issue a certified copy of the marriage license to you.
7. Keep Your Marriage License
It’s important to keep your marriage license in a safe place, as it serves as legal proof of your marriage. You may need to show it for various purposes, such as changing your name on official documents or applying for spousal benefits.
In conclusion, getting legally married in Texas involves several steps, including checking the legal age for marriage, obtaining a marriage license, waiting for the license to become valid, choosing a witness, getting married, mailing the marriage license, and keeping your marriage license. By following these steps, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognized and celebrated in the state of Texas.
