Lowndes Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Planning to tie the knot in Valdosta, Georgia? Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Before you walk down the aisle, there are a few important details you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in Valdosta. From fees to requirements, we’ve got you covered with all the essential information you need for a smooth and hassle-free marriage license application process.
Preparing for a wedding involves more than just picking out flowers and choosing a cake. One of the essential legal steps is obtaining a marriage license. In Valdosta, Georgia, this process is straightforward, but there are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Marriage License Application Process
ID Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Valdosta, both applicants need to provide valid identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Translation Services
If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator will be required during the application process.
Divorce and Death Certificates
If either applicant has been previously married, they must provide certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate if widowed.
Parent’s Birthplace and Maiden Name
Applicants will need to provide information about their parent’s birthplace (city and state) and mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Name After Marriage
Applicants need to specify the bride’s full name after marriage.
Date and Place of Marriage
Include the intended date and place of marriage in the application.
Application Fees
The application fee for a marriage license is $56 if you’re not undergoing pre-marital counseling. If you complete pre-marital counseling, the fee drops to $16. Remember to bring the certificate of completion of the course if you opt for counseling.
Contacting Lowndes County Probate Court
Before visiting, contact the Lowndes County Probate Court to confirm office hours and any specific requirements.
Marriage ID Requirements
Here are the valid forms of identification for the marriage application process:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Waiting Period and Residency Requirements
Unlike some states, Georgia doesn’t have a waiting period for marriage.
Residency Requirement: You don’t need to be a resident of Georgia to apply for a marriage license in Valdosta.
Previous Marriages and Records Search
If either applicant has been previously divorced, a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce is required.
Marriage License Fees
The marriage license fees in Lowndes County are $56 without premarital education or $16 with premarital education. Additionally, there’s a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license, which is sent to 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.
Cousin Marriages
First and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages created before January 1, 1997, are recognized in Georgia.
Marriage Blood Test
Blood tests are not required in Georgia as of July 1, 2003.
Name Change After Marriage
Georgia law requires applicants to choose the legal surname they’ll use after marriage. Options include their present surname, the surname of a previous marriage, or the spouse’s surname.
Marriage Age Requirements
Applicants must be 18 years or older to marry without parental consent. If applicants are 16 or 17 years old, they need written parental consent. No license is issued if either applicant is under 16.
Marriage Proof of Age
Proof of age is required during the application process. Acceptable documents include birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings.
Marriage Witnesses
If the person performing the ceremony doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are needed to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Georgia marriage licenses do not have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
Applying online for your marriage license is possible through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Obtaining a Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
For a copy of your marriage license certificate, contact the Vital Records department in Atlanta.
Conclusion
Navigating the marriage license application process in Valdosta, Georgia, is an important step in your wedding journey. Remember to gather all necessary documents, complete any required courses, and reach out to the local Probate Court for accurate information. Once you have your marriage license in hand, you’re one step closer to saying “I do.”
FAQs
- 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.
- Are blood tests required for marriage in Georgia? No, blood tests are no longer required for marriage in Georgia as of July 1, 2003.
- What are the fees for a marriage license in Valdosta, GA? The fees vary depending on whether you undergo premarital education. It’s $56 without education and $16 with education.
- Can first cousins marry in Georgia? Yes, first cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia.
- Is there a waiting period for marriage in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for marriage in the state of Georgia.
