Bexar County Marriage License: The Ultimate Guide!

The process surrounding a texas marriage license bexar county often involves navigating the requirements set by the Bexar County Clerk's Office. Obtaining this license allows couples to formalize their commitment under Texas state law. Understanding the implications of community property, as it relates to marital assets, is crucial during this process. Premarital counseling, offered by various San Antonio based organizations, can also help couples prepare for this significant life decision.

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Your Guide to Getting Married in Bexar County

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, and obtaining a marriage license is a crucial first step.

This guide serves as your comprehensive resource for navigating the marriage license process specifically within Bexar County, Texas.

Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge necessary to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience as you prepare to say "I do."

Why This Guide Matters

Understanding the requirements and procedures for obtaining a marriage license is paramount.

By being well-informed, you can avoid potential delays, costly mistakes, and unnecessary complications that might arise from a lack of preparation.

This guide aims to simplify what can often seem like a complex process.

What You'll Learn

This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from understanding basic Texas marriage law to submitting your application and receiving your license.

We will cover essential topics, including:

• Eligibility requirements (age, identification, etc.).
• The application procedure.
• Waiting periods and expiration dates.
• Post-marriage resources, such as name change information.

With this guide, you'll be well-prepared to obtain your marriage license in Bexar County and embark on your married life with confidence.

Understanding Texas Marriage License Basics

The journey to "I do" in Bexar County begins with understanding the legal framework governing marriage licenses in Texas. While the state sets the overarching laws, the county plays a vital role in the application and issuance process. Disentangling these roles is crucial.

State Authority: Setting the Ground Rules

Texas State Law, specifically the Texas Family Code, dictates the fundamental requirements for marriage. This includes:

• Age restrictions.
• Prohibited relationships.
• Waiting periods.
• Validity of the license.

The state legislature establishes these rules to ensure marriages are legally sound and recognized across Texas. These laws apply uniformly to all 254 counties in the state.

Bexar County's Role: Local Administration

Bexar County, through its County Clerk's office, acts as the administrative arm of the state in marriage matters. The County Clerk is responsible for:

• Accepting marriage license applications.
• Verifying applicant eligibility based on state law.
• Issuing the marriage license.
• Maintaining records of all marriages performed in the county.

In short, the county clerk applies the Texas Family Code within the local jurisdiction of Bexar County.

The Interplay of State and County

The relationship between state and county regulations is one of delegation and enforcement. The state law creates the framework. The county implements it at the local level.

This means the Bexar County Clerk must adhere to the Texas Family Code. They cannot create their own marriage requirements.

However, the county can establish specific procedures for application submission, fee payment, and record retrieval, provided these procedures align with the state mandates. It is vital to remember that any county-specific procedure cannot contravene the Texas Family Code.

Understanding this interplay ensures that couples seeking to marry in Bexar County meet all necessary legal requirements, both at the state and local levels. This understanding streamlines the process. It helps ensure a smooth and legally sound beginning to their married life.

Bexar County Marriage License Requirements: What You Need

With a firm grasp of the state and county's respective roles, it's time to examine the specific hurdles you'll need to clear to secure a marriage license in Bexar County. These stipulations are in place to ensure the legality and validity of your union.

Age Requirements and Parental Consent

Texas law sets a minimum age for marriage. Generally, applicants must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent.

If either applicant is 16 or 17 years old, they can only get married with parental consent. The legal guardian must provide a notarized written consent.

Previously, Texas law allowed for marriage under the age of 16 with a court order, but this exception has been removed. As of September 1, 2017, marriage licenses will not be issued if either applicant is under 16 years of age. This change reflects a legislative effort to protect children and prevent forced marriages.

Acceptable Forms of Identification

To verify your identity and age, you must present acceptable forms of identification when applying for a marriage license. Bexar County typically accepts the following:

• A valid driver's license issued by any U.S. state or territory.

• A valid U.S. passport or passport card.

• A valid identification card issued by a U.S. state or territory.

• A valid military identification card.

It's crucial that the identification presented is current and has not expired. Expired identification may lead to delays or rejection of your application.

Social Security Number Disclosure

Applicants are required to provide their Social Security Number (SSN) on the marriage license application. This information is used for administrative purposes and is kept confidential.

It is important to note that providing your Social Security Number is mandatory, even if you do not have a physical Social Security card.

There are exceptions to this requirement. If you are not eligible for a Social Security Number, you must state this on the application.

Addressing Previous Marriages

If either applicant has been previously married, specific documentation is required to demonstrate that the prior marriage has been legally dissolved.

• You must provide a certified copy of the divorce decree or annulment papers.

• The document must clearly state that the divorce or annulment is final.

Bexar County will not issue a marriage license if there is any ambiguity or outstanding legal issue related to a prior marriage.

Legality of Same-Sex Marriage

Following the landmark Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), same-sex marriage is legal throughout the United States, including Texas. Bexar County adheres to this ruling, and same-sex couples have the same rights and are subject to the same requirements as opposite-sex couples when applying for a marriage license. All applications are processed in a non-discriminatory manner.

Relevant Sections of the Texas Family Code

The requirements discussed above are primarily governed by the Texas Family Code. Key sections to reference include, but are not limited to:

• Chapter 2, Subchapter A: General requirements for marriage.

• Section 2.001: Persons authorized to conduct marriage ceremony

• Section 1.01: Definitions related to marriage.

Consulting these sections of the Texas Family Code will provide a deeper understanding of the legal basis for the requirements outlined in this guide.

Understanding these requirements is the first crucial step toward obtaining your marriage license in Bexar County and embarking on your journey together.

Navigating the Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

With all the necessary documents and information in hand, you're ready to begin the application process for your Bexar County marriage license. Let's walk through each step to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.

Where to Apply: Bexar County Clerk's Office Locations

Marriage license applications are accepted at specific locations of the Bexar County Clerk's Office. It's essential to verify the most up-to-date locations and hours of operation by visiting the Bexar County Clerk's official website or contacting them directly.

As of October 26, 2023, marriage licenses are issued at the following locations:

• Paul Elizondo Tower - 101 W Nueva St, San Antonio, TX 78205
• Bexar County Justice Center - 300 Dolorosa, San Antonio, TX 78205

It is advisable to call ahead to confirm hours and any specific requirements that may be in place at the time of your visit.

Completing the Application Form: Essential Information

The marriage license application form requires detailed information from both applicants. Be prepared to provide the following:

• Full legal names (first, middle, and last).
• Current addresses.
• Dates and places of birth.
• Social Security numbers (if applicable).
• Information about any previous marriages, including dates of divorce or annulment.

Accuracy is key. Double-check all information before submitting the form to avoid potential delays or complications. Any discrepancies may require clarification or additional documentation.

Understanding the Fees and Payment Methods

Obtaining a marriage license in Bexar County requires paying a fee. The current fee is approximately $81.00. This fee is subject to change, so it is best to confirm the exact amount with the County Clerk's office before applying.

The Bexar County Clerk's office typically accepts the following payment methods:

• Cash
• Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover)

Personal checks are generally not accepted.

Applying Online: A Convenient Option?

While an in-person visit to the County Clerk's office is usually required, an online application may be available to expedite the process. Check the Bexar County Clerk's website for the most up-to-date information on whether an online application option exists and how to access it. If available, you can complete the application form online and then visit the clerk's office to finalize the process, present your identification, and pay the fees.

This can save time and streamline your experience.

Important Considerations After Applying: Waiting Period and Expiration

Once you've successfully navigated the application process and paid the required fees, there are still a couple of crucial points to understand before you can officially tie the knot: the waiting period and the license expiration date. These stipulations are in place to ensure the marriage is entered into thoughtfully and legally.

Understanding the 72-Hour Waiting Period

Texas law mandates a 72-hour waiting period after the marriage license is issued before the marriage ceremony can legally take place. This means that you cannot get married on the same day you obtain your license. Plan your ceremony accordingly, keeping this waiting period firmly in mind.

Exceptions to the Waiting Period

While the 72-hour waiting period is generally enforced, there are a few exceptions. The waiting period may be waived by a county judge.

Another exception applies if one of the applicants is active duty military personnel. With proper documentation, the waiting period can be skipped.

Be sure to confirm acceptable documentation with the County Clerk.

Marriage License Expiration

A Bexar County marriage license is not valid indefinitely. Once issued, it is valid for only 90 days. The marriage ceremony must occur within this 90-day window.

What Happens if the License Expires?

If you do not get married within the 90-day validity period, the marriage license expires and becomes void.

To proceed with the marriage, you would need to reapply for a new marriage license, fulfilling all the requirements and paying the fees again. So, it's crucial to plan your wedding date carefully to avoid this inconvenience and added expense.

Bexar County Clerk Contact Information

For any questions or clarifications regarding the waiting period, expiration dates, or any other aspect of the marriage license process, it's always best to contact the Bexar County Clerk directly.

You can reach them by phone or through their official website.

• Phone: (210) 335-2223
• Website: https://www.bexar.org/277/County-Clerk

Contacting the County Clerk directly is the most reliable way to obtain the most current and specific information related to your situation.

Beyond the License: Essential Resources for Newlyweds

Securing your marriage license is a significant step, but it's only the beginning of your journey as a married couple. Once the ceremony is complete, several important administrative tasks remain. Understanding these processes will help you navigate the legal and practical aspects of married life with confidence.

Name Change Information

One of the most common post-wedding considerations is changing your name. In Texas, the process is relatively straightforward if you intend to take your spouse's last name.

Generally, your certified marriage certificate serves as the legal document needed to update your name with various entities, such as the Social Security Administration, the Texas Department of Public Safety (for your driver's license), banks, credit card companies, and other relevant institutions.

It's crucial to prioritize notifying the Social Security Administration as your new name must be reflected in their records before you can update your driver's license or passport.

Resources for Name Change Assistance

Several online services specialize in streamlining the name change process. These services can provide personalized instructions, pre-filled forms, and step-by-step guidance, saving you time and effort.

Some popular options include:

• HitchSwitch
• MissNowMrs.

These services often charge a fee, so carefully compare their offerings and pricing before making a decision. Remember to always verify information with official government sources.

Obtaining Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate

After the wedding, you will likely need certified copies of your marriage certificate for various purposes, including insurance enrollment, tax filings, and legal documentation.

Only certified copies are accepted for official use.

How to Request a Certified Copy

In Bexar County, you can obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate through the Bexar County Clerk's Office.

Requests can typically be made in person, by mail, or potentially online, depending on the services offered by the Clerk's Office. Check the Bexar County Clerk's website for the most current options and procedures.

Required Information

When requesting a certified copy, you'll typically need to provide:

• The full names of both parties as they appear on the marriage license.
• The date of the marriage.
• Your contact information.
• A copy of your valid photo identification.

You will also need to pay a fee for each certified copy requested. Fees vary, so consult the Bexar County Clerk's fee schedule for accurate pricing.

Vital Records Access

Your marriage certificate is an important vital record. In Texas, vital records are generally not open to the public to protect privacy. Access is typically restricted to the individuals named on the record, their direct family members, or legal representatives.

Protecting Your Privacy

Be mindful of storing and sharing your marriage certificate. Treat it with the same care you would give your social security card or other sensitive documents. This will help protect you from identity theft and fraud.

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