Rockdale Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Getting married is an exciting and momentous occasion in one’s life, but it also involves a fair share of administrative tasks, including obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Rockdale County, Georgia, understanding the process and associated fees is essential. This guide will walk you through the key details you need to know about marriage license fees, requirements, and more.
Getting married is a significant milestone in anyone’s life, and if you’re planning to say “I do” in Rockdale County, Georgia, it’s essential to be well-informed about the process of obtaining a marriage license.
Marriage License Application Requirements
To apply for a marriage license in Rockdale County, there are certain requirements you need to fulfill. These include:
- ID for each Applicant: Both individuals must present valid identification.
- Certified Copies of Divorce Papers: If either party has been previously married, certified divorce papers are required.
- Certified Copy of Death Certificate: If widowed, a certified death certificate of the deceased spouse is needed.
- Parents Birth Place and Mother’s Maiden Name: This information is required for both parties.
- Bride’s Full Name After Marriage: The bride’s full name after marriage needs to be provided.
- Date and Place of Marriage: Details about the wedding date and location are necessary.
Marriage License Fees
The fees associated with obtaining a marriage license in Rockdale County vary based on certain factors. The fees are as follows:
- $56 without Premarital Education completed.
- $16 with Premarital Education.
Additionally, there is a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license, which is mailed to the applicants after recording. There is also a $10 fee for the certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.
Marriage ID Requirements
When applying for a marriage license, you’ll need to provide one of the following forms of identification:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, there is no waiting period for getting married in the state of Georgia. Once you have your marriage license, you’re ready to proceed with your wedding ceremony.
Marriage Residency Requirement
The great news is that you do not have to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license in Rockdale County. Whether you’re a Georgia resident or from out of state, you can still get married here.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has previously been married, you will need to 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.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia. Both parties must be present to apply for a marriage license.
Cousin Marriages
Yes, first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are not recognized in Georgia if they were created after January 1, 1997.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required to obtain a marriage license in Georgia.
Name After Marriage
Georgia law requires each applicant to designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. This could include:
- His or her present surname.
- The surname of a previous marriage.
- Spouse’s surname.
- A combination of surnames as provided in conjunction with the spouse’s surname.
Name Change
It’s important to note that getting a marriage license with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. If you intend to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years of age 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 the written consent of the parent(s). No license may be issued if either applicant is under 16.
Marriage Proof of Age
Proof of age is required when applying for a marriage license. Acceptable forms of proof include:
- Birth certificate
- Driver’s license
- Baptismal certificate
- Certificate of birth registration
- Selective service card
- Court record
- Passport
- Immigration papers
- Alien papers
- Citizenship papers
- Armed forces discharge papers
- Armed forces identification card
- Hospital admission card with full name and date of birth
Marriage Officiants
Marriages in Georgia can be officiated by licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace.
Marriage Witnesses
While the officiant usually completes the necessary forms, if they don’t, two witnesses are required to sign the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
The marriage license in Georgia does not have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
Applying for a marriage license in Georgia has been made convenient with online applications. Visit the Georgia Probate Record website to apply for your marriage license online.
Contact Information
For further assistance or information, you can contact the Rockdale County Probate Court at:
922 Court Street, Room 107 Conyers, GA 30012 Phone: (770) 929-4057 Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. / Monday – Friday
Remember to verify all information with the local Rockdale County Probate Court before visiting their office to ensure you have the most up-to-date details for your wedding plans.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the journey to your happily ever after. By understanding the requirements, fees, and other details associated with marriage licenses in Rockdale County, Georgia, you’ll be better prepared to embark on your matrimonial journey.
FAQs
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in the state of Georgia.
- Can first cousins marry in Georgia? Yes, first cousins can legally marry in Georgia.
- Are blood tests required for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia? No, blood tests are no longer required for obtaining a marriage license in Georgia.
- What are the acceptable forms of proof of age for a marriage license? Acceptable forms of proof of age include a birth certificate, driver’s license, passport, and more.
- 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.
