Johnson Probate Court Marriage License Requirements
Getting married is a beautiful and significant milestone in life, and one of the initial steps on this journey is obtaining a marriage license. In the state of Georgia, this process involves a few key details, such as fees, requirements, and application procedures. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential information you need to know about marriage license fees in Georgia.
Before you say “I do,” you need to make sure you have the legal paperwork in order. In Georgia, this involves applying for a marriage license. The state offers various options and requirements depending on your circumstances.
Marriage License Application Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Georgia, you and your partner must fulfill certain requirements. These include:
- Valid identification for each applicant.
- Certified copies of divorce papers if either party has been previously married.
- Certified copy of the death certificate if widowed.
- Information about parents’ birthplace and mother’s maiden name.
- The bride’s full name after marriage.
- Date and place of the marriage.
Marriage ID Requirements
Georgia accepts various forms of identification for the marriage application, including:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Marriage Waiting Period
Fortunately, there’s no waiting period for getting married in Georgia. Once you have your license, you’re good to go!
Marriage Residency Requirement
You don’t need to be a resident of Georgia to get married there. Whether you’re from out of state or out of the country, Georgia welcomes you.
Previous Marriages and Divorces
If either applicant has previously been married, they must provide a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce. This document must show the judge’s signature and the date the divorce was granted.
Marriage License Fees
Marriage license fees in Georgia vary depending on certain factors. As of the time of writing, the fees are as follows:
- $56 without pre-marital counseling.
- $16 with pre-marital counseling.
Additionally, there’s a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license, which is mailed to the applicants after recording. There’s 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. Both parties must be present to apply for and receive the marriage license.
Cousin Marriages
Interestingly, Georgia permits first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
While common-law marriages are not recognized if created after January 1, 1997, those established before that date are considered valid in Georgia.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia.
Name After Marriage
Georgia law requires each applicant to choose a legal surname to use after marriage. Options include:
- Present surname
- Surname from a previous marriage
- Spouse’s surname
Name Change
Getting a marriage license with your new name on it doesn’t automatically change your name. You may need to go through a separate process for a name change.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If either applicant is 16 or 17 years old, they can obtain a license with written parental consent.
Marriage Proof of Age
Proof of age is essential when applying for a marriage license. Acceptable forms of proof include:
- Birth certificate
- Driver’s license
- Baptismal certificate
- Court record
- Passport
- Immigration papers
Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings in Georgia.
Marriage Witnesses
In cases where the person performing the ceremony does not complete the form, two witnesses are required to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Fortunately, the marriage license in Georgia does 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 Certificate of Marriage License
If you need a copy of your marriage license, you can obtain it through the Vital Records office. Here are the details:
Vital Records 2600 Skyland Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30319-3640 Ph: 404.679.4701
In conclusion, understanding the marriage license fees and requirements in Georgia is a crucial step in the wedding planning process. By adhering to the guidelines outlined by the state, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognized and off to a joyful start.
FAQs
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.
- Can cousins marry in Georgia? Yes, first and second cousins are allowed to marry in Georgia.
- Are blood tests required for marriage in Georgia? No, blood tests are not required for marriage in Georgia.
- Can I apply for a marriage license online in Georgia? Yes, you can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- Do I need to change my last name after getting a marriage license with my new name on it? Yes, obtaining a marriage license with your new name on it doesn’t automatically change your name. You may need to go through a separate name change process.
