Overview of San Antonio Marriage Records
Marriage records in San Antonio are maintained by the Bexar County Clerk’s Vital Records Office and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). These documents certify the legal union of two individuals and are used for genealogy, legal matters, name changes, and benefits verification. This guide explains how to search, request, and verify marriage records in San Antonio with practical, evergreen instructions.
Where Marriage Records Are Held
Bexar County Clerk — Vital Records
The Bexar County Clerk holds marriage records from 1837 to the present for county-issued licenses. County-level records include details such as bride and groom names, date of marriage, county, and license number. These are the first point of contact for most local requests.
Texas DSHS — State Registration
The Texas DSHS Bureau of Vital Statistics maintains the statewide registration of marriages since 1903. State copies serve as a secondary source when county records are incomplete or for out-of-county searches. Online access and certifications are managed through the DSHS portal.
Eligibility and Authorized Persons
Access levels vary by record age and relationship to the parties involved. Immediate family members, legal representatives, and court-appointed individuals can request certified copies. General information, such as existence and date, may be available to the public for older records. Always verify current eligibility with the issuing office before visiting.
Required Information and Documentation
To obtain a marriage record, prepare full names (including maiden name), date of marriage or approximate range, county, and valid photo ID. For certified copies, include a notarized completed application form and acceptable fee. If requesting by mail, include a stamped, self-addressed envelope and a secondary form of identification.
Fees, Turnaround Times, and Accepted Payment
| Item | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee (County Certified Copy) | $30 per copy | Bexar County Clerk Schedule of Fees |
| Application Fee (State Certified Copy) | $22 per copy | Texas DSHS Vital Records Fee Schedule |
| Search Fee (Online Portal) | $15 per search | Texas DSHS VitalChek Pricing |
| Expedited Processing | 2–5 business days (additional fee applies) | County and State Service Options |
| Acceptable Payment | Check or money order payable to County or State agency; card via online portal | Agency Payment Policies |
How to Request Marriage Records
In-Person at the Bexar County Clerk
Visit the Clerk’s office located at 121 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX. Bring completed application, valid photo ID, fees, and any supporting documents. Same-day service is available for in-person requests when records are on-site. Confirm office hours and appointment requirements before visiting.
By Mail to County and State
Mail notarized applications, fees, ID copies, and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the addresses listed on the respective forms. Processing typically takes 10–15 business days. Track your request if a return receipt is used.
Online Through DSHS and Authorized Vendors
The Texas DSHS portal and authorized third-party vendors allow eligible users to search and order certified copies online. You’ll need personal identifiers and payment. Results are delivered electronically or by mail depending on the service level chosen.
Verifying Authenticity and Correcting Errors
Verify authenticity by checking watermarks, serial numbers, and issuing agency seals on certified copies. If you find clerical errors, contact the issuing office with supporting evidence to request a correction or amended certificate. Retain copies of all correspondence and documentation when making corrections.
Alternative Sources and Cross-Referencing
Search courthouse indexes, church records, cemetery records, and newspaper announcements to verify or supplement marriage data. When records are missing or incomplete, these sources can confirm details and clarify conflicting information. Maintain a log of searches and findings to streamline further research.