Bacon Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a significant milestone in one’s life, and the process of obtaining a marriage license is an essential step towards the union of two individuals. In Georgia, the marriage license requirements and fees may vary depending on factors such as premarital education, age, and identification. In this article, we will walk you through the intricacies of obtaining a marriage license in Georgia, the associated fees, and other vital information you need to know.
What is a Marriage License?
A marriage license is a legal document that allows couples to legally marry within a specific jurisdiction. It is an essential prerequisite for a wedding ceremony and is required to be obtained before the marriage takes place.
Marriage License Requirements
To obtain a marriage license in Georgia, couples must meet certain requirements:
Identification Documents
Both applicants must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, or passport.
Divorce and Death Certificates
If either applicant has been previously married, they need to present certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate if widowed.
Parents’ Birthplace and Maiden Name
Applicants will be required to provide information about their parents’ birthplaces, including the city and state, as well as the mother’s maiden name.
Application Fee
The application fee for a marriage license is $56 if pre-marital counseling is not completed. If applicants have completed pre-marital counseling, the fee is reduced to $16. A certificate of completion of the counseling course must be presented.
Scheduling an Appointment
Applicants should contact their local Bacon County Probate Court well in advance to determine the office’s hours of operation and availability. Some locations may require appointments.
Accepted Forms of Identification
Accepted forms of identification include driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Waiting Period and Residency Requirement
There is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia, and residency in the state is not a requirement.
Previous Marriages and Records
If either applicant has gone through a divorce, they must present the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce. This document must show the judge’s signature and the date of the divorce.
Marriage License Fees
The fees for obtaining a marriage license in Bacon County are $56 without Premarital Education completed and $16 with completed pre-marital counseling. Additionally, there is a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license, which is mailed to the applicants after recording.
Proxy and Cousin Marriages
Proxy marriages are not permitted in Georgia. However, first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry.
Common Law Marriages
Georgia does not recognize common-law marriages formed after January 1, 1997.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia.
Name Change After Marriage
Applicants must designate the legal surname they will use after marriage, which can include their present surname, the surname of a previous marriage, or the spouse’s surname.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years old or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If either applicant is 16 or 17 years old, a license may be issued only with parental consent.
Proof of Age Documents
Proof of age can be established through documents such as birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.
Authorized Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace are authorized to officiate weddings.
Witnesses and Expiration
If the person performing the ceremony doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are required to obtain the marriage certificate. A Georgia marriage license does not have an expiration date.
Online Marriage Application
Applicants can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website, making the process more convenient.
Obtaining a Copy of the Marriage Certificate
After the marriage is recorded, applicants can obtain a copy of the marriage certificate from the Vital Records office in Atlanta.
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Georgia involves adhering to specific requirements and paying attention to various details. By following the outlined steps and understanding the associated fees, couples can ensure a smooth process as they embark on their journey towards marriage.
FAQs
- Can I apply for a marriage license online in Georgia? Yes, you can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- Is there a waiting period to get married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.
- Are blood tests required for a marriage license in Georgia? No, blood tests are not required for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia.
- Can cousins marry in Georgia? Yes, first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia.
- What is the expiration date of a Georgia marriage license? A Georgia marriage license does not have an expiration date.
