Clarke Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements

If you’re planning to tie the knot in Athens, Georgia, understanding the marriage license fees and requirements is crucial. Whether you’re a local resident or an out-of-towner, navigating the process can seem daunting. We’re here to break down everything you need to know about marriage license fees, application requirements, waiting periods, and more. So, let’s dive in!

Marriage License Application

Identification Documents

To apply for a marriage license in Athens, GA, both applicants need valid identification. Accepted forms of ID include:

• Driver’s License
• State ID
• Resident Alien ID
• Military ID
• Passport

Language Requirements

If one of the applicants does not speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator will be needed during the application process.

Divorce and Widowhood

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

Parental Information

Applicants will need to provide the birthplace (city and state) of both parents and the mother’s maiden name.

Marriage Details

You’ll be asked for information about the marriage, including the bride’s full name after marriage, date, and place of the wedding.

Application Fees

The marriage license application fee is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling. A certificate of completion of the counseling course must be presented.

Clerk’s Office Hours

Make sure to contact the local Clarke County Probate Court well in advance to know the office hours and availability of the Clerk.

Marriage ID Requirement

Various forms of identification, such as driver’s licenses, state IDs, and passports, are accepted for verifying your identity.

Marriage Waiting Period

Fortunately, there is no waiting period to get married in the State of Georgia. You can proceed with your wedding plans promptly.

Marriage Residency Requirement

The good news is that you do not need to be a resident of Georgia to apply for a marriage license in Athens.

Previous Marriages

If either applicant has previously been divorced, certified documents of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce are required.

Marriage License Fees

The marriage license fees for Clarke County are $56 without completed premarital education and $16 with premarital education. Additionally, there’s a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license.

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia. Both parties must be present to apply for a marriage license.

Cousin Marriages

Georgia law permits first and second cousins to legally marry.

Common Law Marriages

While common-law marriages aren’t established after January 1, 1997, those created before this date will still be recognized in Georgia.

Marriage Blood Test

As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia.

Name After Marriage

Georgia law mandates applicants to indicate the legal surname they will use after marriage, which can include their present surname, the surname from a previous marriage, or the spouse’s surname.

Name Change

Obtaining a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name. Consider using an online marriage name change kit.

Marriage Age Requirements

Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. For applicants aged 16 or 17, parental consent is required.

Marriage Proof of Age

Proof of age, such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport, is necessary when applying for a marriage license.

Marriage Officiants

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

Marriage Witnesses

If the officiant doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are needed during the ceremony to obtain the marriage certificate.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

Unlike some states, the marriage license in Georgia does not have an expiration date.

Georgia Online Marriage Application

You can conveniently apply for your marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.

Obtaining a Copy of the Marriage License

For a copy of your marriage license, you can contact the Vital Records department in Atlanta, Georgia.

In conclusion, preparing for your marriage in Athens, GA, involves a series of essential steps, including gathering the necessary documents, completing counseling if applicable, and understanding the fees associated with the process. Make sure to follow the guidelines provided by the Clarke County Probate Court to ensure a smooth experience. Congratulations on your upcoming journey into marital bliss!

FAQs

Q1: How much is the application fee for a marriage license without pre-marital counseling? A: The application fee is $56 without pre-marital counseling.

Q2: Is there a waiting period for marriage in Georgia? A: No, there is no waiting period to get married in Georgia.

Q3: Can I apply for a marriage license online? A: Yes, you can apply for your marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.

Q4: What identification documents are required for the application? A: Acceptable forms of ID include driver’s licenses, state IDs, passports, and more.

Q5: Can common-law marriages be established in Georgia? A: No, common-law marriages established after January 1, 1997, are not recognized in Georgia.