In Tarrant County, you can now apply for a marriage license from home. Here’s how.
Starting Monday, Tarrant County residents hoping to tie the knot will be able to apply for a marriage license from the comfort of their home.
The Texas Legislature’s approval of SB 907 in 2021 allowed county clerks to issue marriage licenses remotely.
Tarrant County is the first in Texas to offer remote marriage licensing. The system is in conjunction with Austin-based company GovOS.
On Oct. 4, GovOS announced the company received approval for its system by the Texas Office of Court Administration.
“We are the first certified in the State of Texas to offer remote marriage licenses,” said County Clerk Mary Louise Nicholson. “We are looking to serve military service men and women and those people who do not want to make the drive to get their marriage licenses.”
How can I apply for a marriage license remotely?
Tarrant County residents can apply for a marriage license remotely as long as they have access to a computer, reliable internet access and audio and visual capabilities on their device.
A notarized affidavit of age and identity must be submitted to complete the application process if applying remotely.
The link to start the application process is on the Tarrant County website.
What forms do I need for a remote marriage license?
The following is required for both formal and common law marriages:
- Both parties must be 18 years or older.
- Both parties must appear together via video conference.
- Must have a valid, government-issued picture identification. Valid ID includes driver’s license, state ID, passport, military ID or a visa. Other forms of acceptable identification can be viewed on the county’s website.
- Social security number.
Are there fees for a remote marriage license?
Fees still apply for remote marriage license applications. The cost for a formal marriage license is $75, or $15 with proof of state-approved pre-marital counseling. An additional $100 will be charged if proof of Texas residency is not provided.
Common law marriage license applications are $40.
Can the marriage license be signed remotely?
The entire marriage license application process can be done remotely through the GovOS system, including signing it.
A different online application process not done through GovOS does require applicants to appear in person to sign and purchase the marriage license, according to the Tarrant County Clerk’s office.
This story was originally published October 14, 2022 at 12:33 PM.
