Getting married involves more paperwork than most couples expect. In the U.S., and Texas specifically, people often confuse a marriage license with a marriage certificate—but these are two distinct documents with different purposes.

A marriage license is obtained before the ceremony from the county clerk’s office. It grants permission to marry within a specific time frame (typically 90 days in Texas). The marriage certificate, or certified copy of the marriage record, is what proves you are legally married after the ceremony is recorded.

Some Texas counties, including El Paso County, also sell decorative keepsake certificates—these are souvenirs only, not valid legal records. This guide covers the documents required for marriage certificate processes: both getting legally married and obtaining certified copies afterward.

Key distinctions:

• License = pre-ceremony permission

• Certificate = post-ceremony legal proof

• Keepsake = decorative, no legal value

Key Marriage Documents: What Each One Is and When You Need It

Understanding which document you need saves time and frustration.

• Marriage License: Issued by the county clerk before your wedding. Authorizes the ceremony but has no legal proof value afterward.

• Marriage Certificate (Certified Copy): Issued after your marriage is recorded. This is your official proof of marriage.

• Declaration of Informal Marriage: For common-law marriages in Texas. Filed with any county clerk to create an official record.

• Keepsake Certificate: Decorative only. Cannot be used for any legal purpose.

To change your name, open joint accounts, or add a spouse to insurance, you need a certified copy of the marriage certificate—not the license.

Documents Required to Apply for a Marriage License

To obtain a marriage certificate, couples must first apply for a valid marriage license from the county clerk where they plan to marry. In El Paso, this is the El Paso County Clerk at 500 E. San Antonio Ave.

Both partners should appear in person together. Texas allows an Absent Applicant Affidavit for active-duty military who cannot attend. Requirements vary by state and country, so always check the official county website.

Acceptable Identification and Age Documents

Each person must provide valid photo ID showing legal name, photograph, and date of birth:

• State-issued driver’s license or state ID card

• U.S. passport or passport card

• U.S. military ID

• Permanent resident card

For applicants near minimum age thresholds, bring a certified birth certificate. Foreign nationals may use a foreign passport with valid immigration status—contact the clerk about translation requirements in advance.

Additional Documents for Special Situations

• Previously married: Provide certified divorce decree, annulment order, or death certificate

• Recent divorce: Texas law requires a 30-day waiting period after divorce finalization

• Minors: Court order typically required; Texas heavily restricts under-18 marriages

• Name discrepancies: Bring court orders or adoption decrees if your ID name differs from your application

• Military absence: Submit an Absent Applicant Affidavit notarized by an officer with military ID copy

Documents Needed to Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate

After your ceremony, the signed license returns to the county clerk for recording. You can then request certified copies from vital records or the clerk’s office where the marriage was recorded.

Required information and documents:

• Valid government-issued photo ID

• Full names of both spouses at time of marriage

• Date and place of marriage (city/county/state)

• Payment of fees (approximately $7 per copy in El Paso, plus processing fees for online orders)

Some states require proof of relationship to access marriage records.

Requesting a Certified Copy In Person

Bring government-issued ID and acceptable payment (cash, card, or money order). At El Paso County’s main office (500 E. San Antonio Ave, Suite 105), the clerk will verify your identity, locate your file, and provide a certified copy with official seal while you wait.

Check the county’s website for current hours and whether appointments are required.

Requesting a Certified Copy Online or by Mail

Many counties support online orders through VitalChek:

• Upload a copy of your government ID

• Provide full names and marriage date details

• Pay the record fee plus vendor/shipping fees

Mail-in requests require the application form, ID photocopy, check or money order, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Standard mail processing takes 1–3 weeks.

Marriage Certificates for Informal (Common-Law) Marriages in Texas

Texas recognizes informal marriage through a Declaration of Informal Marriage filed with any county clerk. Both partners must appear in person, swear they meet legal requirements, and present:

• Government-issued photo IDs

• Social Security numbers

• Documentation of prior marriages ended (divorce decrees or death certificates)

Once filed, you can request certified copies like any standard marriage certificate.

Marriages Outside the State or Abroad

For marriages in another U.S. state, contact that state’s vital records office. For marriages abroad, reach out to the civil registry, embassy, or consulate of that country.

Foreign marriage certificates may need certified translations and apostille authentication for U.S. legal processes like immigration or name changes.

Practical Tips to Avoid Delays or Rejections

• Check the official clerk’s website 48 hours before your visit for current fees and hours

• Bring multiple forms of ID if your name or address recently changed

• Order at least two certified copies upfront—DMV, SSA, and banks each require originals

• Double-check spelling and dates on your application to prevent registration delays

Taking time to gather the right documents before visiting the county clerk’s office makes the entire process smoother. Verify your specific requirements with your local clerk and you’ll have your certified copy in hand without unnecessary trips or delays.