Telfair Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a beautiful and joyous union between two people, and it all begins with obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning to tie the knot in the charming Courthouse Square of McRae, GA, there are some important details you should be aware of regarding marriage license fees and requirements. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before saying, “I do.”
Marriage License Application Process:
Required Identification:
To initiate the application process, both parties need to present valid identification, which may include:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Court Approved Translator:
If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator is required for the marriage license application.
Divorce and Widowed Documentation:
Certified copies of divorce papers or death certificates are necessary if either applicant has been previously married.
Parental Information:
Applicants will need to provide the birthplace (city and state) and mother’s maiden name of both parents.
Marriage Ceremony Details:
The planned date and place of marriage should be included in the application.
Application Fees:
The application fee for a marriage license is $56 if pre-marital counseling isn’t completed. If the couple completes pre-marital counseling, the fee reduces to $16, and they must bring a certificate of course completion. Additionally, there’s a $10 charge for a certified copy of the marriage license, which is mailed to applicants after recording, and a $10 fee for a certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.
Acceptable Forms of ID:
Several forms of identification are acceptable for the marriage license application, including driver’s licenses, passports, and court records.
Marriage Waiting Period and Residency Requirements:
There is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia, and residency in the state is not required.
Previous Marriages and Records:
Applicants with previous marriages must provide proof of the final judgment and decree of their most recent divorce. First and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia, and common-law marriages created before January 1, 1997, are recognized.
Marriage License Fees:
The fees for obtaining a marriage license in Telfair County are as follows:
- Without Premarital Education: $56
- With Premarital Education: $16
- Certified Copy Fees: $10 (for marriage license) + $10 (for license application for Social Security Administration)
Proxy and Cousin Marriages:
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia. However, first and second cousins can legally marry.
Common Law Marriages:
While common-law marriages created before January 1, 1997, are recognized, Georgia no longer requires blood tests for marriage.
Verifying Information with Telfair County Probate Court:
Before heading to the Telfair County Probate Court, it’s important to verify all information regarding marriage license requirements and office hours.
Name Change After Marriage:
Georgia law requires applicants to designate the legal surname they’ll use after marriage. Options include using one’s present surname, the surname from a previous marriage, or the spouse’s surname.
Marriage Age Requirements:
Applicants must be 18 years or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. Written consent from parents is necessary if either applicant is 16 or 17 years old. Since July 1, 2006, pregnancy no longer authorizes the issuance of a license to a 16 or 17-year-old without consent.
Proof of Age Documentation:
Proof of age can be established through various documents, such as 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.
Marriage Witnesses:
If the officiant doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are needed to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration of Marriage License:
Unlike some states, Georgia marriage licenses do not have an expiration date.
Applying for a Marriage License Online:
Applying for a marriage license in Georgia is easier than ever with the option to apply online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Obtaining a Copy of the Marriage Certificate:
For a copy of the marriage certificate, contact Vital Records at 2600 Skyland Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30319-3640, or call 404.679.4701.
Conclusion:
Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the journey of matrimony. By understanding the process, requirements, and fees associated with obtaining a marriage license in Georgia, you’re setting the foundation for a lifelong partnership filled with love and happiness.
FAQs:
- Can I apply for a marriage license online? Yes, you can conveniently apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in the state of Georgia.
- What documents are required for proof of age? Acceptable documents for proof of age include birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.
- Can first cousins marry in Georgia? Yes, first cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia.
- What is the fee for a certified copy of the marriage license? The fee for a certified copy of the marriage license is $10, and an additional $10 fee is charged for the certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.
