Fulton Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
If you’re considering tying the knot in Atlanta, Georgia, understanding the marriage license fees and requirements is crucial. From the application process to the necessary documents, this article will guide you through the steps to ensure your marriage journey begins smoothly. Let’s dive into the details.
Getting married is a significant life event, and understanding the process of obtaining a marriage license is essential. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of marriage license fees, requirements, and other important information for couples planning to get married in Atlanta, Georgia.
Marriage License Application
Before you say “I do,” you’ll need to apply for a marriage license. Here’s what you need to know:
ID Requirements
Both applicants must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, or passport.
Certified Copies of Divorce Papers or Death Certificate
If either applicant has been previously married, certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate must be provided as proof of marital status.
Parents’ Birth Place and Mother’s Maiden Name
Applicants should know their parents’ birthplace (city and state) and the mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Full Name after Marriage
Applicants will need to decide on the bride’s legal surname after marriage.
Date and Place of Marriage
Applicants must know the intended date and place of the marriage.
Application Fees
The application fee is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling. The latter requires a certificate of completion of the counseling course.
Marriage ID Requirements
Accepted forms of identification for marriage license applicants include driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia. Couples can obtain their marriage license and proceed with their wedding plans without delay.
Marriage Residency Requirement
You do not have to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license in the state.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has been previously married, proof of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce is required. The document must bear the judge’s signature and the date of the divorce.
Marriage License Fees
The marriage license fees in Fulton County, Georgia, are $56 without premarital education completed and $16 with premarital education. There is also a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia.
Cousin Marriages
Georgia law permits first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are not recognized in Georgia if established after January 1, 1997.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required for marriage license applications in Georgia.
Name After Marriage
Applicants must designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. This can include their present surname, the surname of a previous marriage, or the spouse’s surname.
Name Change
Obtaining a marriage license with a new name does not automatically change the name. Online marriage name change kits are available for those wishing to change their last name.
Marriage Age Requirements
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. Applicants aged 16 or 17 can obtain a license with written parental consent.
Marriage Proof of Age
Applicants are required to present proof of age, which can include a birth certificate, driver’s license, baptismal certificate, or other official documents.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings.
Marriage Witnesses
In cases where the person performing the ceremony doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are needed to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Unlike some licenses, the Georgia marriage license does not have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
Couples can apply for their marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website, making the application process even more convenient.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of obtaining a marriage license in Atlanta, Georgia, doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the requirements, fees, and necessary documents, you can ensure a smooth start to your marital journey.
FAQs
- Can we apply for a marriage license online? Yes, you can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in the state of Georgia.
- Do we need witnesses for the marriage ceremony? Witnesses are required only if the officiant does not complete the form.
- Can common-law marriages be established in Georgia? No, common-law marriages established after January 1, 1997, are not recognized in Georgia.
- What forms of identification are accepted for marriage license applicants? Accepted forms of identification include driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
