How to Skip the 72-Hour Waiting Period for a Texas Marriage License

Yes, you really can Save $60 on your Texas marriage license by completing one approved premarital course.

Texas Marriage License Basics

Before the big day, every couple must visit a county clerk’s office to apply for a Texas marriage license. Fees and procedures are set by state law, but each county handles its own paperwork. A standard license costs $82 in most counties, is valid for 90 days, and—unless you qualify for an exemption—there’s a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before you can say “I do.”

Need to locate your clerk? The Texas Secretary of State maintains an up-to-date county-clerks directory. Texas county clerks accept premarital education certificates issued by approved providers, and the discount and waiting period waiver are applied automatically at the time of application.

Why Couples Are Skipping the Wait (and the $60 Fee)

Texas law (see Family Code §2.204) waives both the 72-hour delay and $60 of the license fee for couples who complete an approved “Twogether in Texas” premarital course. That means you pay only the county’s administrative portion (usually $22) and can marry the same day the license is issued.

How to Skip the 72-Hour Waiting Period in Texas

1. Choose a Texas-approved premarital education course.
2. Complete the course together online.
3. Download your completion certificate.
4. Bring the certificate to any Texas county clerk.
5. The clerk removes the $60 fee and the 72-hour waiting period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do both partners have to take the premarital course?

Yes, Texas requires that both partners participate in the course. You can complete it side-by-side or remotely; just be sure both names appear on the certificate.

Is the premarital course certificate valid in all Texas counties?

Absolutely. Every clerk in Texas is trained to process Twogether in Texas certificates. Take a printed copy (digital copies aren’t accepted) and government-issued IDs for both partners.

Is the discount automatic?

Yes—once the clerk verifies your certificate, the system automatically removes the $60 state fee and the 72-hour hold.

Real-Life Success Snapshot

“We finished the course on a Saturday morning, walked into the Travis County Clerk that afternoon, and left with our license in 15 minutes—$60 cheaper and no waiting. Highly recommend!”
—Jasmine & Chris, Austin

Ready to Save Time and Money On Your Texas Marriage License?

Avoid the wait, keep your cash, and start your marriage with an intentional focus on each other.

You’ll receive your official certificate after completion—perfect for any Texas county clerk’s office.