How to Apply for a Marriage License in Denton County

Getting married is one of the most exciting milestones in life. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Denton County, Texas, one of the first steps is applying for a marriage license. Understanding the process can make this task much simpler, and in this article, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps and requirements. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a destination wedding, we’ve got all the details you need to get your marriage license in Denton County.

Requirements for Both Applicants (e.g., ID, Age)

Before heading to the County Clerk’s office to apply for your marriage license, make sure both you and your partner meet the following requirements:

• Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If either of you is younger than 18 but at least 16, you may apply with parental consent and court approval. Anyone under 16 cannot marry in Texas without special court authorization.
• Identification: Both applicants must provide a valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or state ID). This is necessary to verify your identity and age. In some cases, the Clerk may also ask for your Social Security number, though you are not required to show the actual card.
• No Waiting Period: Texas law does not require a waiting period for marriage licenses, which means once you have your marriage license, you can marry immediately.
• No Blood Test Required: Gone are the days of needing a blood test before marriage. You can skip that step entirely in Denton County.
• Previous Marriages: If either applicant has been married before, you will need to provide the Decree of Dissolution or divorce certificate for the most recent marriage. This confirms that you are legally able to marry again.

With these basic requirements in mind, you are ready to proceed with your application.

Application Process: In-Person at County Clerk’s Office

To officially apply for your marriage license, both applicants must be present at one of the six County Clerk locations in Denton County. Here’s the step-by-step process to guide you:

1. Visit the County Clerk’s Office: Denton County has multiple locations where you can apply for your marriage license. You’ll need to visit one of the following offices in person:
   • Denton County Clerk’s Main Office
   • The various sub-offices spread across the county (check the official website for addresses).

1. Submit Your Application: Fill out the marriage license application form. The form will ask for basic information, such as your names, birthdates, and addresses.
2. Pay the Fee: The cost for a marriage license in Denton County is $81. However, if you and your partner have completed a state approved marriage course, the fee is reduced to $21. Payment can typically be made via cash, check, or credit card, so be prepared for the payment method.
3. Receive Your License: After submitting the application and payment, you will receive your marriage license. In Denton County, there is no waiting period, so once you have the license, you can get married immediately.

The Option for Online Applications or Appointments

While the traditional method requires you to apply in person, Denton County has made it more convenient for residents by offering an online application process. Here’s how it works:

• Online Application: You can fill out the marriage license application form online before visiting the County Clerk’s office.
• Appointment Booking: Due to high demand or local restrictions (such as during busy wedding seasons), it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment for your marriage license application.
• Accessing the Form Online: You can complete the application form on the Denton County Clerk’s website. Make sure to double-check all your details, as errors may delay the process.

For those who are planning to get married but live outside Denton County, this option can be a huge time-saver.

Cost of a Marriage License in Denton County

When you’re preparing for your big day, there’s more to consider than just the venue and flowers—one of the first steps is getting a marriage license. In Denton County, the process is simple and straightforward, and so is the cost.

Standard Fee: $81 (or $21 with a Premarital Education Course Certificate)

The cost of a marriage license in Denton County is typically $81, but there’s a way to reduce that cost if you and your partner are proactive. If you complete a Premarital Education Course, the fee is significantly reduced to $21. This reduction is part of a Texas law designed to encourage couples to prepare for marriage through counseling or educational programs, which can help strengthen relationships in the long run.

• Premarital Education Course: This course must be approved by the state, and it typically covers topics such as communication, conflict resolution, and financial management. After completing the course, you’ll receive a certificate that you can present at the County Clerk’s office to qualify for the discounted fee.

This is a great option if you want to not only save some money but also ensure a healthier, more informed start to your marriage.

Accepted Payment Methods (Cash, Credit/Debit Cards)

Once you’ve decided on the type of marriage license you’re applying for, you’ll need to pay the fee. Denton County makes it easy by accepting a variety of payment methods. The following payment options are accepted at all County Clerk locations:

• Cash
• Credit/Debit Cards
• Checks

Additional Costs for Certified Copies of Marriage Certificates

After your wedding, you may want to request certified copies of your marriage certificate for various purposes—changing your name, updating your tax records, or applying for insurance benefits. In Denton County, obtaining these certified copies does incur an additional fee.

• Certified Copies: The cost for a certified copy of your marriage certificate in Denton County is $1 per copy. You can request as many copies as you need at the time of applying for the marriage license, or you can order them later through the County Clerk’s office.

Tip: It’s a good idea to order a few certified copies when you apply for your marriage license. They can be useful if you need to submit proof of marriage to multiple agencies or organizations. Additionally, ordering them at the time of your license application can save you a trip to the office later.

What Documents Do You Need for a Denton Marriage License?

When applying for a marriage license in Denton County, having the right documents on hand is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.

1. Valid Government-Issued Photo ID

One of the most important documents you’ll need is a valid government-issued photo ID. This is required to verify both your identity and age. Acceptable forms of ID include:

• Driver’s License: A valid state-issued driver’s license from any state.
• Passport: A government-issued passport (either U.S. or foreign).
• State ID: If you don’t drive, a state-issued identification card works just as well.

Your ID should be up to date, and it must clearly display your name, date of birth, and a recent photo. Make sure it’s not expired or damaged, as this could cause delays in processing your application.

2. Social Security Number (If Applicable)

While you don’t need to show your Social Security card when applying for a marriage license, you will need to provide your Social Security number on the application form. This helps the County Clerk’s office verify your identity and ties into important record-keeping.

• No SSN? If you are not eligible for a Social Security number (such as for foreign nationals), you will still be able to apply for a marriage license, but you will need to provide an alternative form of identification, such as a passport or visa, depending on your situation.

It’s a good idea to bring along your Social Security number if you have one to avoid any complications.

3. Proof of Dissolution of Previous Marriages (If Any)

If either you or your partner has been previously married, you will need to provide proof of dissolution of previous marriages. This documentation is necessary to confirm that you are legally allowed to marry again. The required proof includes:

• Decree of Dissolution (Divorce Decree): If your previous marriage ended in divorce, you must bring a certified copy of the Decree of Dissolution (also known as your divorce decree) from the court that finalized your divorce. This document confirms that the divorce has been legally completed and that you are free to remarry.
• Death Certificate: If your previous spouse passed away, you’ll need to provide a death certificate as proof. This ensures that you are legally able to marry again after the death of your spouse.

It’s crucial to have these documents on hand, as failure to provide them may result in delays or even denial of your marriage license application.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license and marriage certificate in Denton County is a simple and straightforward process, but understanding the necessary steps and requirements is key to ensuring a smooth experience. From meeting the legal age requirements to providing the correct documents, including a Decree of Divorce if you’ve been previously married, preparation is essential.

After your wedding, you can easily request a certified marriage certificate from the Denton County Clerk’s office, either in person, by mail, or online. The process is efficient, and certified copies are often needed for legal purposes such as changing your name or applying for spousal benefits.

Whether you’re a Texas resident or coming from out of state, there are no residency restrictions, and the marriage license process is simple. By following these steps, you can get your marriage license, tie the knot, and enjoy your new life together with the proper documentation.

Remember, always have your Decree of Divorce on hand if applicable, and don’t hesitate to request multiple certified copies of your marriage certificate to cover all your future needs.