Cherokee Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements

Marriage is a significant milestone in anyone’s life, and there are many factors to consider when planning your wedding, including the legal aspects such as obtaining a marriage license. In the state of Georgia, understanding the marriage license fees and requirements is crucial before you tie the knot. This article provides an in-depth look at everything you need to know about marriage license fees in Georgia.

Marriage License Application Process

ID Requirements

When applying for a marriage license in Georgia, both applicants must provide identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, or passport.

Translation Services

Applicants who don’t speak fluent English may require a Court Approved Translator to apply for a marriage license.

Divorce and Death Certificates

If either applicant has been previously married, certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate must be presented.

Parental Information

Applicants need to provide information about their parents, including birthplace (city and state) and mother’s maiden name.

Marriage Details

Details about the intended marriage, such as the bride’s full name after marriage, date, and place of marriage, are required.

Application Fees

The application fee for a marriage license is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling. Applicants must bring a certificate of completion of the counseling course.

Contacting Cherokee County Probate Court

It’s recommended to contact your local Cherokee County Probate Court well in advance to determine office hours and availability, as some locations may require appointments.

Marriage ID Requirement

Accepted forms of identification for marriage include drivers’ licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.

Marriage Waiting Period

There is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.

Marriage Residency Requirement

Residency in Georgia is not required to obtain a marriage license.

Previous Marriages

Applicants with previous marriages must provide copies of the final judgment and decree of divorce, including the judge’s signature and date of divorce.

Marriage License Fees

Marriage license fees in Cherokee County are $56 without Premarital Education and $16 with Premarital Education. There’s an additional $10 charge for a certified copy of the marriage license, as well as a $10 fee for the certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages are not permitted in Georgia.

Cousin Marriages

Georgia allows 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

Blood tests are no longer required for marriage in Georgia since July 1, 2003.

Verifying Information

Always verify information with your local Cherokee County Probate Court before making any arrangements.

Name After Marriage

Georgia law requires applicants to designate the legal surname they’ll use after marriage, which can include their present surname, a previous marriage surname, or spouse’s surname.

Name Change

Obtaining a marriage license with a new name doesn’t automatically change your name. You can use an online marriage name change kit for this purpose.

Marriage Age Requirements

Applicants must be 18 or older to apply without parental consent. For those aged 16 or 17, consent from parents is required. As of July 1, 2006, pregnancy no longer authorizes marriage for 16 or 17-year-olds.

Marriage Proof of Age

Proof of age is required and can be provided through documents such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, baptismal certificate, and more.

Marriage Officiants

Licensed ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings.

Marriage Witnesses

Two witnesses are required if the person performing the ceremony doesn’t complete the form.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

Georgia marriage licenses do not have an expiration date.

Georgia Online Marriage Application

Applicants can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.

Obtaining a Copy of the Marriage Certificate

To obtain a copy of your marriage certificate, you can contact Vital Records at the address provided earlier.

In conclusion,

understanding the marriage license fees and requirements in Georgia is essential for a smooth wedding planning process. By following the outlined steps and ensuring you have all the necessary documents, you can obtain your marriage license and begin your journey as a married couple. Remember to verify all information with your local authorities and make sure to plan ahead to avoid any delays. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!