Many people assume that marriage is a requirement for adopting a child in Texas. It’s one of the most common misconceptions hopeful parents face.
So, do you have to be married to adopt in Texas? The short answer is no. Texas adoption law does not require you to be married to grow your family through adoption. Single individuals and unmarried couples can legally adopt as long as they meet the state’s general eligibility requirements.
However, this law only applies to state adoptions (like those through foster care). Agencies can differ on their internal rules — which is why going with a welcoming newborn adoption agency in Texas is so important.
Still, the belief that only married couples can adopt leads to a lot of confusion and missed opportunities. Find out what the law actually says, explore common myths, and read some practical advice for single and unmarried Texans who want to adopt.
If you’re exploring options through a Texas newborn adoption agency, understanding these facts can help you take the next step with confidence.
At Angel Adoption, we have helped hundreds of single and unmarried Texans build their families through adoption. Contact our experts today to learn how we can support you at every step.
The Legal Facts: Texas Adoption Requirements for Singles
The Texas Family Code answers the question, “Do you have to be married to adopt in Texas?” Section 162.001(b) states that any adult may adopt, regardless of marital status. This applies to single individuals, divorced adults, and unmarried couples alike.
To adopt in Texas, you must be at least 21, financially stable, and able to complete a background check and home study. These legal requirements apply whether you’re adopting independently or through an agency.
Some agencies may have internal preferences for married couples, but that is not required by state law. At Angel Adoption, our minimum age to adopt is 25 to help ensure babies are placed in financially and emotionally stable homes.
The court is looking for applicants to meet the legal requirements as a baseline — the most important thing is that choices are made in the child’s best interest.
Adoption professionals often help interpret these guidelines in practice. You can find the eligibility rules directly in Section 162 of the Texas Family Code or learn more through this plain-language explanation of Texas adoption law.
Myth #1: Single Parents Face Impossible Waiting Periods
A common misconception is that if you’re not married, you cannot adopt in Texas within a reasonable timeframe. While every adoption experience is different, marital status does not drive wait times. In reality, many single parents adopt successfully each year.
Factors like openness to different situations, a strong profile, and timely communication play a much bigger role in how long it takes to be matched. Adoption agencies typically focus on readiness and stability — not relationship status.
For example, at Angel Adoption, we’ve helped many single applicants complete the process in under a year, depending on their preferences and flexibility, but Texas adoption wait times can vary. Generally, adoption timelines can last between six to 24 months, but some might take longer.
To improve your chances, keep your adoption profile active, stay in touch with your agency, and be open to a range of potential birth parent backgrounds. These steps help shorten timelines in most cases.
Myth #2: Birth Parents Never Choose Single Adoptive Parents
Adopting as a single parent in Texas is not only allowed — but it happens quite often!
While some birth parents may have personal preferences, most biological parents prioritize emotional connection, stability, and the ability to provide a secure, loving home.
Strong profiles from single applicants often highlight everyday routines, parenting goals, and support systems — details that make it easier for birth parents to picture their child’s future. Photos, honest writing, and consistency matter more than whether you’re married.
At Angel Adoption, we helped Audra, a single woman, adopt a newborn after the birth mother connected with her sense of peace and independence (Audra’s Story). She kept her profile personal and focused on her home life and values.
When you share profiles that feel real and emotionally grounded, these tend to stand out regardless of the applicant’s relationship status.
Myth #3: The Home Study Disadvantages Single Parents
If you’re wondering about single-parent adoption eligibility, know that home study professionals understand you do not have to be married to adopt in Texas. A home study aims to assess your ability to provide a safe, stable environment, not to evaluate your relationship status.
After asking about whether you have to be married to adopt in Texas, singles might wonder about how their cases are examined:
Single applicants are held to the same standards as couples and are not penalized for being unmarried.
Evaluators will look at your home, financial stability, lifestyle, and support system. If you’re adopting alone, it’s important to show that you can rely on family, friends, or trusted caregivers, especially for help during emergencies or transitions. In Texas-based domestic adoptions, the evaluator will speak with all household members and may ask for references.
If you’re concerned about single-parent adoption eligibility, focus on showing stability, preparedness, and support. Clear documentation and honest conversations during your home visit can go a long way.
Myth #4: Singles Can Only Adopt “Hard to Place” Children
Regardless of the child’s age or needs, you do not have to be married to adopt in Texas. Single applicants can adopt infants through agencies like married couples.
In an agency adoption, matches are based on your preferences, your adoption profile, and the connection felt by an expectant mother. Many birth parents choose single applicants for newborn placements because of their openness, emotional readiness, and stability.
Some single adopters choose to adopt children with special needs. These placements can be incredibly meaningful but require additional preparation and long-term planning.
Being single doesn’t restrict your adoption options. You can pursue the type of adoption that fits your goals and your capacity to parent.
Financial Considerations for Single Adopters
When considering the question, “do you have to be married to adopt in Texas,” you might also be wondering about finances. Remember that while you do not have to be married to adopt in Texas, you do need to be financially stable. Texas adoptions typically range from $40,000 to $50,000, depending on the agency, legal fees, and birth parent support needs. Planning ahead is especially important for single applicants since they have one income.
Some employers offer adoption assistance, and grants are available through organizations that support diverse family structures. Single adopters may also qualify for the adoption tax credit, which can help offset qualified expenses.
Careful budgeting, clear savings goals, and a plan for post-placement costs like childcare are key. It also helps to review the cost of adoption in Texas, so you understand what’s typical and what varies by case.
Building Your Support System as a Single Adoptive Parent
Agencies recognize that while you do not have to be married to adopt in Texas, you do need support. A reliable support system is one of the most important things agencies look for when evaluating single applicants.
Support can include extended family, close friends, neighbors, coworkers, or hired caregivers. It’s important to name these people during your home study and explain how they’ll assist with things like childcare, transportation, or emergencies. Some single parents also find help through single-parent support groups across Texas.
You can also explore Texas family resource programs for help with parenting classes, childcare referrals, or local support services in your area.
Simple, well-planned routines show that you’re not parenting in isolation. Agencies want to know that you’ve thought through daily logistics and built a strong network around you.
This may include backup plans for sick days, time off work, and emotional support. For additional ideas, read over our advice on how to build your adoption village.
Unmarried Couples: Special Considerations
Beyond the basic questions on whether you have to be married to adopt in Texas, you may be wondering about certain factors that apply to unmarried couples looking to adopt. Not only do you not have to be married to adopt in Texas as a single person, but unmarried couples have options, too.
In most adoptions, only one partner in an unmarried couple can adopt initially. The other partner may be able to pursue second-parent adoption, but this depends on local court practices, among other factors.
Agencies may ask how long you’ve been together, whether you share a home, and how you plan to co-parent. While being unmarried doesn’t disqualify you, it can raise extra questions about long-term stability and legal rights.
It’s important to discuss second-parent adoption with an attorney early in the process. This step helps protect the non-adopting partner and the child legally.
The Texas Adoption Bench Book outlines key legal considerations for these cases, including court trends and procedural options. Understanding the unmarried adoption process upfront can help you plan more effectively as a couple.
Success Stories: Single-Parent Adoptions in Texas
These families demonstrate that you do not have to be married to adopt in Texas and thrive as a family. Each story shows how single applicants can succeed with the right mindset, preparation, and support system.
Lisa built a strong local support network and became a mom to a baby girl she describes as “the missing piece to her life” (read Lisa’s story here).
Amanda, a first-time adopter, said staying open and organized helped her stay confident even when things felt uncertain (learn more about Amanda’s story).
If you’re looking for inspiration or practical ideas, our parent success stories offer real insight into what’s possible.
Do You Have to Be Married to Adopt in Texas? No. Get Started Today.
With proper preparation, single individuals can build their families through adoption. The state’s laws support single-parent adoption eligibility and offer a clear path for those pursuing a family alone or through the unmarried adoption process. And, as an agency, we support families of all kinds coming together — all are welcome here!
Success comes down to planning, stability, and a strong support system, not relationship status. If you’re ready to grow your family, you deserve experienced, honest guidance. We hope we’ve answered your questions surrounding, “Do you have to be married to adopt in Texas” — but if not, we’d love to answer your other questions.
Your adoption goals matter. Take the first step toward meeting your child with a team that understands Texas adoptions from every angle.
