Greene Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements

Are you planning to tie the knot in the beautiful state of Georgia? Congratulations on taking this significant step in your journey of love! Before you say your “I do’s,” there are important details you need to be aware of regarding marriage license fees and requirements in Georgia. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential information you should know to ensure a smooth and stress-free process for obtaining your marriage license. Let’s dive in!

Marriage License Application Process

ID Requirements

To complete the application for a marriage license in Georgia, each applicant must present valid identification. Accepted forms of identification include:

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

Divorce Papers and Death Certificates

If either applicant has been previously married, certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate (in the case of a widowed individual) must be provided.

Parents’ Birth Place and Mother’s Maiden Name

Applicants are required to provide the birthplace (city and state) of their parents and the mother’s maiden name.

Bride’s Full Name after Marriage

The bride’s full legal name after marriage needs to be specified in the application.

Date and Place of Marriage

Applicants should provide the planned date and place of the marriage.

Application Fees

The application fee for a marriage license in Georgia is $56 if pre-marital counseling is not completed, and $16 if it is completed (a certificate of completion is required).

Be sure to check with your local Greene County Probate Court for their office hours and any specific requirements.

Marriage ID Requirement

For identification purposes, the following IDs are accepted:

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

Marriage Waiting Period

There is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia. Once you have your marriage license, you’re good to go!

Marriage Residency Requirement

You do not need to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license in the state.

Previous Marriages

If either applicant has previously been married and divorced, a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce is required.

Marriage License Fees

The fees for obtaining a marriage license in Greene County, Georgia, are as follows:

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

In addition, there is a $10 charge for a certified copy of the marriage license, which is mailed to the applicants after recording. There is also a $10 fee for a certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.

Proxy Marriages

Proxy marriages are not permitted in Georgia.

Cousin Marriages

Georgia law allows first and second cousins to legally marry.

Common Law Marriages

Common-law marriages created before January 1, 1997, are recognized in Georgia.

Marriage Blood Test

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

Name After Marriage

Georgia law requires applicants to designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. Options include the present surname, a previous marriage’s surname, or the spouse’s surname.

Marriage Age Requirements

Both applicants must be 18 years old or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. Applicants aged 16 or 17 require written parental consent, and those under 16 cannot marry.

Marriage Proof of Age

Proof of age is required when applying for a marriage license. Acceptable forms include birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.

Marriage Officiants and Witnesses

Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings. If the officiant does not complete the form, two witnesses are required.

Expiration Date of Marriage License

Georgia marriage licenses do not have an expiration date.

Georgia Online Marriage Application

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

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’re now well-informed about the marriage license fees and requirements in Georgia. Remember, while we’ve covered the key details, it’s always wise to verify information with your local Greene County Probate Court before taking the next steps. Happy planning for your big day!

FAQs

1. Can we apply for a marriage license if one of us doesn’t speak fluent English? Yes, if either applicant does not speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator will be required to apply for the Marriage License.

2. Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period. Once you have your marriage license, you’re ready to proceed.

3. Can I change my name after getting a marriage license? Yes, Georgia law allows you to choose a new surname. However, getting a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name; you need to follow the legal process.

4. What are the accepted forms of proof of age? Acceptable proof of age includes birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.

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