Schley Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Are you planning to tie the knot in the beautiful state of Georgia? Understanding the intricacies of obtaining a marriage license is crucial to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch. From fees to requirements, we’ve got you covered with all the essential information you need to know.
Getting married is a significant life event, and obtaining a marriage license is one of the essential steps in the process. Whether you’re a resident of Georgia or planning a destination wedding, understanding the rules and regulations is vital.
Marriage License Application Process
To apply for a marriage license in Georgia, couples need to visit their local Schley County Probate Court. It’s advisable to contact the court well in advance to find out the office’s working hours and any appointment requirements.
Essential Documents
Applicants will need to provide several important documents during the application process. These include:
- Identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport, military ID)
- Certified copies of divorce papers (if applicable)
- Certified copy of death certificate (if widowed)
- Parents’ birthplace and mother’s maiden name
Application Fees and Pre-Marital Education
The application fee for a marriage license in Georgia varies based on whether the couple has undergone pre-marital counseling. The fee is $56 without counseling and $16 with counseling. If you opt for counseling, you’ll need to provide a certificate of completion.
Marriage ID Requirements
Georgia accepts various forms of identification for the marriage license application, including driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, Georgia doesn’t have a waiting period for getting married. This means you can apply for a marriage license and have your ceremony on the same day.
Marriage Residency Requirements
The good news is that you don’t need to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license in the state. It’s open to both residents and non-residents.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has previously been married and divorced, they’ll need to provide a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce.
Marriage License Fees
The marriage license fees in Schley County, Georgia, are $56 without pre-marital education and $16 with pre-marital education. Additionally, there’s a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license and a $10 fee for the certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.
Proxy Marriages and Cousin Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia, but the state does permit first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
Common law marriages are not recognized in Georgia if they were created after January 1, 1997.
Marriage Blood Test
Georgia discontinued the requirement for blood tests for marriage as of July 1, 2003.
Name Change After Marriage
Georgia law requires applicants to designate their legal surname after marriage. This can include their present surname, the surname of a previous marriage, spouse’s surname, or a combination of surnames.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years old or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If an applicant is 16 or 17 years old, a license can be issued with written parental consent.
Marriage Proof of Age
Proof of age is a legal requirement during the application process. Acceptable proofs include birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.
Authorized 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 officiant doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are required for the ceremony to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Unlike some states, the Georgia marriage license doesn’t have an expiration date.
Online Marriage Application
Couples can conveniently apply for their marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Contact Information
For any further inquiries or to apply for a marriage license, you can contact the Schley County Probate Court at:
Vital Records 2600 Skyland Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30319-3640 Phone: 404.679.4701
To conclude, preparing for your wedding in Georgia involves understanding the marriage license process thoroughly. By following the guidelines and providing the necessary documents, you can ensure that your special day is legally sound and filled with love and joy.
FAQs
- Can non-residents of Georgia apply for a marriage license in the state? Yes, both residents and non-residents can apply for a marriage license in Georgia.
- Is pre-marital counseling mandatory for obtaining a marriage license? No, pre-marital counseling is optional. The application fee varies based on whether you opt for counseling.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Georgia? No, proxy marriages are not allowed in the state.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, Georgia does not have a waiting period for getting married.
- What forms of identification are accepted for the marriage license application? Accepted forms of identification include driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
