Candler Probate Court Marriage License Requirements
If you’re planning to tie the knot in the charming state of Georgia, understanding the marriage license fees and requirements is crucial. From the necessary documents to the fees involved, let’s delve into the details of obtaining a marriage license in Georgia.
Before saying “I do” in Georgia, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the marriage license application process, the required documents, and the associated fees. Let’s explore the steps you need to take to obtain a marriage license in the state.
Marriage License Application Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Georgia, both you and your partner need to fulfill certain requirements:
ID for Each Applicant
You and your partner must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, or passport.
Court Approved Translator for Non-English Speakers
If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a court-approved translator is required to apply for the marriage license.
Certified Copies of Divorce Papers or Death Certificate
If either of you has been previously married, you’ll need to provide certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate if widowed.
Parents’ Birth Places and Mother’s Maiden Name
You’ll be asked to provide the birthplaces of your parents, including the city and state, as well as your mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Full Name after Marriage
You’ll need to decide on the bride’s full name after marriage.
Date and Place of Marriage
Specify the date and place of your upcoming marriage.
Application Fees
The application fee for a marriage license in Georgia is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling. Don’t forget to bring a certificate of completion of the counseling course if applicable.
Marriage ID Requirements
Various forms of identification are accepted, including driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, there is no waiting period to get married in Georgia.
Marriage Residency Requirement
You do not need to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license in the state.
Previous Marriages and Divorce Records
If you’ve had a previous marriage, you must provide a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce, showing the judge’s signature and date of divorce.
Marriage License Fees
Marriage license fees in Georgia vary based on whether you’ve completed pre-marital education. Without pre-marital counseling, the fee is $56, and with counseling, it’s $16. Additional fees may apply for certified copies of the license and application.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia.
Cousin Marriages
Yes, first and second cousins can legally marry in Georgia.
Common Law Marriages
Common-law marriages are not recognized in Georgia if established after January 1, 1997.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are not required for marriage in Georgia.
Verifying Information with Local Probate Court
Before heading to purchase your marriage license, make sure to confirm all details with your local Candler County Probate Court, including office hours and any specific requirements.
Name After Marriage
Georgia law requires applicants to designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. This can include the present surname, a previous marriage surname, the spouse’s surname, or a combination of the two.
Name Change
Changing your name on the marriage license doesn’t automatically change your name everywhere else. Consider using an online marriage name change kit if needed.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. Special rules apply if one applicant is 16 or 17 years old.
Marriage Proof of Age
Accepted proofs of age include birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, court records, passports, and more.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed 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 doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are required to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
A Georgia marriage license does not have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
You can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
After recording, a certified copy of the marriage license is mailed to applicants. For any inquiries, you can contact the Vital Records office in Atlanta.
Conclusion
As you embark on your journey to marital bliss in Georgia, understanding the marriage license fees and requirements is crucial. Ensure you have all the necessary documents, fulfill the application process, and adhere to the fees for a seamless experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply for a marriage license online in Georgia? Yes, you can apply online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- What are the fees for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia? The fees vary based on whether you’ve completed pre-marital education. It’s $56 without counseling and $16 with counseling.
- Is there a waiting period for marriage in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period to get married in the state.
- Do I need to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license? No, residency in Georgia is not a requirement for obtaining a marriage license.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Georgia? No, proxy marriages are not allowed in the state.
