Evans Probate Court Marriage License Requirements

Marriage is a significant milestone in one’s life, and getting a marriage license is a crucial step in the process. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Georgia, it’s important to understand the requirements and fees associated with obtaining a marriage license. In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential details you need to know before saying “I do.”

Getting married is a joyous occasion, but it involves some legal formalities. In Georgia, obtaining a marriage license is a necessary step to legalize your union. Let’s dive into the details of this process.

Marriage License Application Process

To apply for a marriage license in Georgia, you and your partner must visit your local Probate Court. The application process involves filling out necessary forms and providing the required documentation.

Required Documents

Several documents are necessary to complete the marriage license application:

• Identification for Each Applicant: Valid forms of identification, such as driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, or passports, are required.
• Court Approved Translator (If Applicable): If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a court-approved translator will be needed.
• Certified Copies of Divorce Papers or Death Certificate: If either applicant has been married or widowed, certified documents must be provided.
• Parents’ Birth Place and Mother’s Maiden Name: These details are needed for both parties.
• Bride’s Full Name After Marriage: The bride’s new full name post-marriage is a required detail.
• Date and Place of Marriage: Providing the date and location of the wedding is essential.

Application Fees

• Without Premarital Counseling: The application fee is $56.
• With Premarital Counseling: The fee is reduced to $16 if you’ve completed a pre-marital counseling course.

Contacting Your Local Probate Court

It’s advisable to contact your local Probate Court ahead of time to learn about their operating hours and any specific requirements they might have.

Accepted Forms of Identification

Several forms of identification are accepted for the application process, including driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.

Marriage Waiting Period

Unlike some states, Georgia doesn’t have a waiting period for marriage. Once you have your marriage license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony immediately.

Marriage Residency Requirement

Georgia does not require you to be a resident of the state to get married there.

Previous Marriages and Records

If either applicant has gone through a divorce, you’ll need to provide a copy of the final judgment and decree. The same applies to showing a certified copy of a death certificate if you’re widowed.

Marriage License Fees

The marriage license fees in Georgia vary based on whether you’ve completed premarital education:

• $56 without Premarital Education
• $16 with Premarital Education

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages, where one or both parties are absent during the ceremony, are not allowed in Georgia.

Cousin Marriages

Georgia allows first and second cousins to legally marry.

Common Law Marriages

Common-law marriages are recognized in Georgia if they were established before January 1, 1997.

Marriage Blood Test

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

Name Change After Marriage

Georgia law requires applicants to choose a legal surname after marriage. This could include using their present surname, a surname from a previous marriage, their spouse’s surname, or a combination of surnames.

Marriage Age Requirements

Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. For those aged 16 or 17, written parental consent is required. No license can be issued if either party is under 16.

Proof of Age

Acceptable proof of age includes a birth certificate, driver’s license, baptismal certificate, court record, passport, and more.

Marriage Officiants

Licensed ministers, clergy members, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings in Georgia.

Marriage Witnesses

If the officiant doesn’t complete the marriage license form, two witnesses are required to be present during the ceremony to obtain the marriage certificate.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

Georgia marriage licenses do 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 Marriage Certificate

After your wedding, you can obtain a copy of your marriage certificate from the Vital Records office.

Conclusion

Navigating the process of obtaining a marriage license in Georgia may seem intricate, but understanding the requirements and steps involved will ensure a smooth journey toward your big day. Remember, it’s always a good idea to contact your local Probate Court for specific guidance tailored to your situation.

FAQs

Q1: How much does a marriage license cost in Georgia? A1: The cost varies based on whether you’ve completed premarital education: $56 without and $16 with premarital counseling.

Q2: Can I apply for a marriage license online in Georgia? A2: Yes, you can apply online through the Georgia Probate Record website.

Q3: Are blood tests required for marriage in Georgia? A3: No, blood tests are not required as of July 1, 2003.

Q4: Can I change my last name after getting a marriage license? A4: Yes, Georgia law allows applicants to choose a new legal surname after marriage.

Q5: Can out-of-state residents get married in Georgia? A5: Yes, you don’t need to be a resident of Georgia to get married there.