Austin Courthouse Weddings: Everything you Need to Know

How to Elope at the Travis County Courthouse in Austin, Texas: A Simple Guide

If you’re dreaming of a romantic, intimate elopement without the fuss of a big wedding, eloping at the Travis County Courthouse in Austin Texas is a wonderful option. It’s easy, cost-effective, and still filled with all the special moments that make your day memorable. Whether you’re a local couple or traveling to Austin for its unique charm, here’s everything you need to know about how to elope at the Travis County Courthouse.

1. Benefits of Eloping at the Travis County Courthouse

The Travis County Courthouse is located in the heart of downtown Austin, a city known for its laid-back vibe, natural beauty, and creative culture. There are several locations you can get married at, but the most common one is Precinct 5 located at 1000 Guadalupe St #112, Austin, TX 78701. Eloping at the Travis County Courthouse offers these amenities;

• Simplicity: With minimal planning required, it’s perfect for couples who want an stress-free wedding day. You don’t need to worry about venue costs, catering, logistics, etc. You can choose to have as little or as many wedding services involved as you’d like, all at your own comfort level!
• Affordability: A courthouse wedding costs a fraction of a traditional ceremony, leaving room for a special honeymoon or other experiences. Many couples love to take the thousands of dollars they would have spent on their wedding, and put it towards a home together.
• Austin’s Charm: Austin is home to vibrant landmarks, thoughtful parks, murals, live music, and the best food. Austin is guaranteed to make your elopement special, and additionally offers tons of beautiful photo locations all around the city if that is a concern for you & your partner! . A few of my favorite spots to photograph at following an Austin Courthouse elopement are the Capitol, The Driskill Hotel, and South Congress.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Eloping at the Travis County Courthouse

1: Obtain a Marriage License

• Where to Get It: You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at the Travis County Clerk’s Office,. There are several, but the main one is located at 5501 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751.
• Requirements: Both of you must be present with a valid form of ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). You must also be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent.
• Waiting Period: Texas has a mandatory 72-hour waiting period after you receive your license, so plan accordingly. However, military personnel or couples with a court waiver may be exempt from this waiting period. The list of accepted exemptions are on their website.
• Cost: The marriage license fee is around $80, though this may change since the time of writing this article. The best way to stay up to date with the Travis County marriage license cost is to visit their website directly here.

2: Schedule Your Ceremony

• Judge or Justice of the Peace: Once you have your marriage license, you’ll need to schedule a time with a judge or justice of the peace at the courthouse. You can typically do this through the Travis County Clerk’s office or by calling the courthouse. To elope at my favorite percent (Precinct 5) with Judge Rico Olivo, email them directly at  JP5Weddings@traviscountytx.gov.
• Pick Your Date and Time: Courthouse ceremonies are available almost all the time, but require some planning & scheduling! Some judges may also perform ceremonies outside of the courthouse. Judge Olivo is generally available every day including weekends, holidays, and after business hours/evenings. Though weddings are usually scheduled by appointment, walk-ins are welcomed so long as the Judge’s schedule permits. It is highly recommended to book your date/time so you can be 100% sure when your ceremony is happening!
• Book any vendors you may want: I would like to reiterate how you should never feel pressured to do anything you want to do; get married in your pajamas if you want! When it comes to love, it is all about the marriage, not the wedding. If you do want to add a few things to make it special, most couples I work with book a photographer, get some florals, and purchase wedding attire to wear together to the courthouse. I also am a big sweet tooth girl, so I’ll always recommend getting a cake. However, there are tons of perfect places to stop for dessert after your ceremony if you’d prefer to sit down together & enjoy a meal!

3: The Ceremony

• Ceremony Location: The ceremony will take place in one of the courthouse’s designated rooms or chambers. While the setting is simple, it’s still special for the moment of exchanging vows. All ceremonies can be conducted in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (with advance notice to schedule an interpreter)
• Witnesses: In Texas, you don’t need witnesses for a courthouse wedding, but many couples choose to bring a close friend or family member to share the moment with them.
• Vows: The ceremony is typically brief but meaningful, with a judge or officiant overseeing the vows and legalities. If you’d like to personalize it, ask your officiant if you can add a few of your own words to the ceremony. Writing each other vows is a special way to make it personal and memorable.

3. What to Bring to Your Courthouse Elopement

• Marriage License: Bring the marriage license you obtained from the County Clerk’s office.
• Valid ID: Make sure to have the same ID you used when applying for the marriage license.
• Rings (Optional): While not required, many couples choose to exchange rings as part of their ceremony.

4. Wedding Photos for your Courthouse Ceremony

Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you should miss out on having beautiful memories of your special day. I know I sound biased, but it’s true! I love when couples book em to capture their courthouse elopement and then take photos together around Austin afterwards. Some great nearby spots include the Capitol, 6th street, and South Congress.

5. Celebrating After Your Courthouse Elopement

Austin is full of great places to celebrate after your courthouse wedding! Whether you want an intimate dinner or a fun night out, here are a few ideas:

• Dinner for Two: Head to one of Austin’s romantic restaurants for a cozy, upscale dinner. My current favorites are Lutie’s and Jeffrey’s.
• Staycation: Book a luxurious stay at one of Austin’s downtown hotels like the historic Driskill Hotel or The LINE Austin for a mini honeymoon.
• Head to the Hill Country: Fredericksburg is a short drive from downtown & a great spot for a getaway! From the endless wineries, gourmet food, and romantic stays you can’t go wrong.

6. Why Eloping Can Be the Best Choice

Eloping offers couples the chance to focus on what really matters—the love they share and the commitment they’re making. Without the pressures of a big wedding, courthouse elopements allow for a more intimate and personal experience. It’s a wonderful option for couples who want a meaningful, stress-free ceremony.

Eloping at the Travis County Courthouse in Austin is a beautiful way to start your journey together. With its ease, affordability, and the option to incorporate Austin’s unique charm into your day, it’s no wonder more couples are choosing this path. Whether you’re planning a simple ceremony or a day filled with love and adventure, your Austin courthouse wedding will be a day to remember.

If the courthouse doesn’t sound like your jam, but you’re still open to eloping, check out my article on How to Elope in Texas. It covers how to plan an elopement anywhere in Texas!

If you’re planning to elope and need a photographer to capture the magic of your courthouse wedding and the vibrant city around you, reach out—I’d love to help you document your special day!

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