Paulding Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Getting married is a significant life event that involves more than just the emotional aspect. There are legal procedures and requirements that need to be followed to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized. One crucial step in this process is obtaining a marriage license. In the state of Georgia, the marriage license fees and requirements can vary based on certain factors. Let’s delve into the details of what you need to know if you’re planning to tie the knot in Georgia.
Planning a wedding involves a lot of decision-making, and one of the most crucial decisions is obtaining a valid marriage license. A marriage license is a legal document that grants you the permission to get married under the law. In Georgia, there are specific steps and requirements you need to follow to ensure your marriage is legally binding.
Marriage License Application Process
ID Requirements
When applying for a marriage license in Georgia, both applicants need to present a valid form of 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 to apply for the marriage license.
Divorce and Death Certificates
If either applicant has been previously married, certified copies of divorce papers or death certificates need to be provided.
Parents’ Information
Applicants are required to provide information about their parents’ birthplace (city and state) and the mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Name after Marriage
The bride’s full name after marriage should also be provided.
Application Fees
The application fee for a marriage license in Georgia is $56 without pre-marital counseling. However, if you complete pre-marital counseling, the fee is reduced to $16, and you need to bring a certificate of completion.
Contacting Paulding County Probate Court
Before proceeding, it’s advisable to contact your local Paulding County Probate Court to find out the office hours and whether an appointment is required.
Marriage ID Requirement
Various forms of ID are accepted for the marriage application process, including a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, and passport.
Waiting Period and Residency Requirement
There’s no waiting period to get married in Georgia, and you don’t have to be a resident of the state to apply for a marriage license.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has had a previous divorce, a copy of the final judgment and decree must be provided.
Marriage License Fees
The fees for a marriage license in Paulding County, Georgia, are $56 without completing premarital education and $16 with premarital education. There’s also a $10 charge for a certified copy of the marriage license, which will be mailed to the applicants after recording.
Proxy Marriages, Cousin Marriages, and Common Law Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia, but first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry. Common law marriages before January 1, 1997, are recognized.
Marriage Blood Test
Blood tests are no longer required for marriage in Georgia as of July 1, 2003.
Name Change
While you can get a marriage license with your new name on it, the license itself doesn’t automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years old or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If either applicant is 16 or 17 years old, a license may be issued with written parental consent.
Marriage Proof of Age
Georgia law requires proof of age, which can be provided through documents such as 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. Witnesses may be required if the person performing the ceremony doesn’t complete the form.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Unlike some states, a Georgia marriage license doesn’t have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
You can conveniently apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Getting a Copy of the Marriage License Certificate
If you need a copy of your marriage license certificate, you can contact Vital Records in Atlanta.
Conclusion
Planning your wedding is a wonderful and exciting journey, and obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in that process. By understanding the requirements, fees, and procedures for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognized and start your journey into wedded bliss.
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.
- What is the application fee for a marriage license in Georgia? The fee is $56 without pre-marital counseling and $16 with pre-marital counseling.
- Is there a waiting period to get married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.
- Do I need a blood test for marriage in Georgia? No, blood tests are no longer required for marriage in Georgia.
- Can I change my last name after getting a marriage license? While you can get a marriage license with your new name, it doesn’t automatically change your name. You can use an online marriage name change kit for this purpose.
