Berrien Probate Court Marriage License Requirements
Getting married is a significant milestone in one’s life, and it’s important to understand the legal requirements and procedures associated with obtaining a marriage license. In the state of Georgia, there are specific rules and fees that couples need to be aware of before tying the knot. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a marriage license in Georgia, including the necessary documents, fees, waiting periods, and more.
Marriage License Application
ID Requirements
Both applicants must provide a valid form of identification, which can include a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, or passport.
Court Approved Translator for Non-English Speakers
If either applicant does not speak fluent English, a court-approved translator will be required to apply for a marriage license.
Documents for Divorce or Widowhood
Applicants who have been previously married must provide certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate if widowed.
Parental Information
Applicants need to know their parents’ birthplaces (city and state) and mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Full Name After Marriage
Applicants should provide the bride’s full name after marriage, which is an important detail for legal records.
Date and Place of Marriage
Applicants need to specify the date and place of the intended marriage.
Application Fees
The application fee for a marriage license in Georgia is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling. Couples opting for pre-marital counseling must bring a certificate of completion.
Marriage ID Requirements
Georgia accepts various forms of identification for marriage license applicants, including driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia. Couples can apply for a marriage license and proceed with their wedding without any mandatory waiting period.
Marriage Residency Requirement
Couples do not have to be residents of Georgia to obtain a marriage license in the state.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has previously been divorced, they must provide a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce, including the judge’s signature and the date the divorce was granted.
Marriage License Fees
The fees for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia vary based on whether pre-marital education has been completed. Without pre-marital education, the fee is $56. With pre-marital education, the fee reduces to $16. Additionally, there is a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license, which is mailed to the applicants after recording. There is also a $10 fee for the certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia; both parties must be present to apply for a marriage license.
Cousin Marriages
Georgia permits first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
Common-law marriages created before January 1, 1997, are recognized in Georgia.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required in Georgia for obtaining a marriage license.
Name After Marriage
Georgia law requires each applicant to designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. This can be the present surname, the surname of a previous marriage, or the spouse’s surname.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years of age 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 with the written consent of the parent or parents. No license may be issued if either applicant is under the age of 16.
Marriage Proof of Age
Proof of age is required at the time of application and can include documents such as birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, court records, and more.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings in Georgia.
Marriage Witnesses
If the person performing the ceremony does not complete the marriage certificate form, two witnesses are required to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Marriage licenses in Georgia do not have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
Couples can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
For copies of the marriage license certificate, individuals can contact the Vital Records office in Atlanta.
In conclusion, understanding the process and requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia is crucial for a smooth and legally valid wedding ceremony. By adhering to the outlined guidelines, couples can ensure that they have all the necessary documents and information to embark on their journey of marital bliss.
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 for getting married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.
- What is the fee for a marriage license in Georgia? The fee varies. It’s $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Georgia? No, proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia.
- Do I need a blood test to obtain a marriage license in Georgia? No, blood tests are not required in Georgia for obtaining a marriage license.
