How to Get Your Marriage License in Houston, TX

Getting married in Harris County starts here

The Harris County Clerk's office issues the marriage license. You cannot legally marry in Texas without one. The process is straightforward if you know what to bring.

Where to go

The main office is at 201 Caroline Street, downtown Houston. There are also satellite locations in Baytown, Bear Creek, Cypress, Humble, and Pasadena. All issue marriage licenses with the same requirements and fees.

What to bring

Both partners must appear in person. Each needs (1) a valid government-issued photo ID — driver's license, passport, or state ID, (2) Social Security number (the card is not required, just the number), and (3) the fee.

The fee

$74 standard. $14 if you bring a Twogether in Texas premarital course completion certificate dated within the past year.

The 72-hour rule

Unless you completed the premarital course, Texas law requires a 72-hour waiting period from license issuance to ceremony. Plan accordingly.

The 90-day rule

The license expires 90 days after issuance. Use it within that window or you'll have to apply and pay again.

Previously married?

Divorce decrees more than 30 days old are fine. If your divorce finalized within the last 30 days, you'll need a court waiver to remarry.

Same-sex couples

Fully equal under federal law since Obergefell. Same fee, same process, same documents. No additional steps required.

After the ceremony

The officiant signs and returns the license to the county. The county records the marriage and mails you a certified copy in 10–14 business days. That copy is what you'll use for legal name changes and benefit updates.