Echols Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Are you planning to tie the knot in Georgia? Whether you’re a resident or just looking to have your dream wedding in this beautiful state, understanding the marriage license requirements and fees is crucial. From the application process to necessary documents, this guide will walk you through the essential details of obtaining a marriage license in Georgia.
Marriage License Application Process
ID Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Georgia, each applicant must provide valid identification. Accepted forms of ID include:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Court Approved Translator
If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator is required during the application process.
Documents for Divorce or Widowhood
If either applicant has been previously married, certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate (in case of widowhood) must be provided.
Parent’s Birthplace and Maiden Name
Applicants need to provide information about their parents’ birthplace (city and state) and the mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Full Name after Marriage
Applicants need to specify the bride’s full name after marriage.
Date and Place of Marriage
Applicants must know the intended date and place of their marriage.
Application Fees
The application fee for a marriage license in Georgia is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling (certificate of completion required).
Local Echols County Probate Court
Contact your local Echols County Probate Court in advance to know the office hours and availability of the Clerk.
Marriage ID Requirements
Accepted forms of ID include driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Marriage Waiting Period
Georgia has no waiting period for getting married.
Marriage Residency Requirement
Residency in Georgia is not a requirement for obtaining a marriage license.
Previous Marriages and Documentation
If either applicant has been divorced, a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce must be provided.
Marriage License Fees
The fees for a marriage license in Echols County are $56 without premarital education and $16 with premarital education. Additionally, there’s a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license and 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 may legally marry in Georgia.
Common Law Marriages
Common-law marriages created before January 1, 1997, are recognized in Georgia.
Marriage Blood Test
Blood tests are no longer required in Georgia as of July 1, 2003.
Name Change After Marriage
Applicants need to choose a legal surname they’ll use after marriage, which can include their present surname, a previous marriage’s surname, or their spouse’s surname.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years or older. If an applicant is 16 or 17, a license can be issued with parental consent.
Marriage Proof of Age
Proof of age can be established with documents like a birth certificate, driver’s license, baptismal certificate, and more.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors, 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
You can apply for your marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Contact Information for Vital Records
If you need a copy of your marriage license certificate, you can contact the Vital Records office at:
Vital Records 2600 Skyland Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30319-3640 Phone: 404.679.4701
Conclusion
Getting married in Georgia is an exciting journey, and understanding the marriage license requirements is a crucial step. From the application process to fees and documentation, this guide has provided you with all the essential information you need to have a smooth and memorable wedding day.
FAQs
- Do I need a waiting period to get married in Georgia? No, there’s no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.
- Can I apply for a marriage license online? Yes, you can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Georgia? No, proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia.
- What’s the fee for a marriage license with pre-marital counseling? The fee is $16 for a marriage license with pre-marital counseling.
- Are blood tests required for marriage in Georgia? No, blood tests are not required for marriage in Georgia as of July 1, 2003.
