Dade Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a significant life event that marks the union of two individuals in love and commitment. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Georgia, it’s important to understand the various aspects of obtaining a marriage license. From fees to requirements, this article provides a comprehensive guide to marriage license fees in the state of Georgia.
Getting married is a wonderful journey, and a crucial step in this process is obtaining a marriage license. In Georgia, there are specific requirements and fees associated with acquiring this important document. This guide aims to walk you through each step of the process, ensuring that your marriage license journey is smooth and stress-free.
Marriage License Application Process
Before you embark on your marital journey, there are several important steps you need to follow when applying for a marriage license in Georgia. These steps include:
ID Requirements
Both applicants must present a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, or passport.
Translator Requirement
If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator is required to apply for the marriage license.
Divorce and Widowed Applicants
If either applicant has been previously married, certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate (if widowed) must be presented.
Parent’s Birthplace and Mother’s Maiden Name
Applicants need to provide information about their parents’ birthplaces (city and state) and the mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Full Name after Marriage
Applicants should provide the bride’s full name as it will be after marriage.
Date and Place of Marriage
Specify the planned date and place of marriage.
Application Fees and Pre-Marital Counseling
The application fee for a marriage license is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling. If you opt for counseling, you must bring a certificate of completion of the course.
Contacting Dade County Probate Court
Contact your local Dade County Probate Court well in advance to determine office hours and any specific requirements. Some locations may require appointments.
Accepted IDs for Marriage
Accepted forms of ID include driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Waiting Period for Marriage
In the state of Georgia, there is no waiting period for getting married.
Residency Requirement
You do not need to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license.
Previous Marriages and Documentation
If either applicant has undergone a divorce, a copy of the final judgment and decree must be provided. The document should show the judge’s signature and the date the divorce was granted.
Marriage License Fees
The fees for obtaining a marriage license in Dade County are $56 without Premarital Education completed and $16 with Premarital Education. Additionally, there is a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license, which is mailed to 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.
Cousin Marriages
First and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia.
Common Law Marriages
Georgia does not recognize common-law marriages created after January 1, 1997.
Marriage Blood Test
Blood tests are no longer required for marriages in Georgia as of July 1, 2003.
Name Change after Marriage
Georgia law requires each applicant to designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. This can include their present surname, the surname of a previous marriage, or their 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 only with parental consent. No license can be issued if either applicant is under 16.
Proof of Age
Georgia law requires proof of age to be presented during application. Acceptable forms of proof include birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate marriages in Georgia.
Marriage Witnesses
If the person performing the ceremony does not complete the form, two witnesses are required for the ceremony to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
The marriage license in Georgia does not have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
Applicants can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
To obtain a copy of the marriage license certificate, applicants can contact Vital Records at 2600 Skyland Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30319-3640.
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Georgia involves several important steps and considerations. From ID requirements to fees and documentation, being well-informed is key to a successful application. Remember that this guide is for informational purposes, and it’s important to verify all information with your local Dade County Probate Court before proceeding.
FAQs
- Can non-English speakers apply for a marriage license in Georgia?
- Yes, but a Court Approved Translator is required for the application process.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia?
- No, there is no waiting period in the state of Georgia.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Georgia?
- No, proxy marriages are not allowed.
- What is the minimum age to apply for a marriage license without parental consent?
- Both applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
- Can common-law marriages be recognized in Georgia?
- Yes, but only if they were created before January 1, 1997.
