Marriage licenses are necessary for anyone who wants to get married. They show that applicants meet the criteria for marriage, such as age, consent and proof that neither applicant is already married. In Victoria, Texas, southeast of San Antonio near the Gulf of Mexico, couples who want to get married must visit the office of the Victoria County Clerk and fill out a license application. The county clerk's office is at 115 N. Bridge St., Room 103, in
Victoria.
Residency
You do not need to be a Texas resident to apply for a marriage license in Victoria. Because destination weddings are increasingly popular, anyone can apply for a marriage license in Victoria and get married in any county in Texas. The license may not be used outside of the state.
Age Limitations
Applicants younger than age 18 may not apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If you are younger than 18, proof of divorce or death must be presented if both of your parents cannot attend or if you are in the custody of a legal guardian. If one party is younger than 16, a court order is necessary to marry in Texas.
Health Requirements
Blood tests and physicals are not mandatory when applying for a marriage license in Texas. Although most states no longer mandate blood testing before marriage, Lois McGuire, a nurse practitioner writing for MayoClinic.com, recommends STD testing before the start of any sexual relationship, including marriage.
Previous Marriages
On your marriage license application, you must provide the date when any previous marriages ended due to death or divorce. If your previous marriage ended less than 30 days before the date you are applying for a marriage license, you must provide your divorce decree or the death certificate of your former spouse.
Time Frame
Once you receive your marriage license, there is a three-day waiting period before it can be used. Additionally, your marriage license expires 30 days after the date it is issued. If you do not use your marriage license before it expires, you will have to re-apply if you still want to get married.
