Webster Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a significant milestone in one’s life, and obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the process. In the state of Georgia, the marriage license fees and requirements vary depending on certain factors. In this article, we will delve into the details of marriage license fees and the necessary documentation for a smooth application process.
Introduction
Marriage licenses in Georgia are issued by county Probate Courts. The purpose of these licenses is to legally permit couples to marry within the state. To obtain a marriage license, applicants must meet certain criteria and provide specific documentation.
Marriage License Application Process
Required Identification
For the application process, each applicant is required to present a valid form of identification. Accepted forms of ID include:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Translator Requirement
If either applicant does not speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator will be necessary to apply for the Marriage License.
Documents for Divorced or Widowed Applicants
Applicants who have previously been married and are now divorced must provide certified copies of their divorce papers. Similarly, widowed applicants must provide a certified copy of the death certificate of their deceased spouse.
Providing Parent’s Birth Place and Mother’s Maiden Name
Applicants will need to provide the birthplace (city and state) of both parents, as well as the mother’s maiden name.
Bride’s Full Name after Marriage
Applicants will be asked to provide the bride’s full name after marriage.
Date and Place of Marriage
The intended date and place of the marriage ceremony will also need to be provided.
Application Fees and Pre-Marital Counseling
Fee without Pre-Marital Counseling
The application fee for a marriage license without pre-marital counseling is $56.
Fee with Pre-Marital Counseling
Applicants who complete a pre-marital counseling course can benefit from a reduced fee of $16. A certificate of completion of the course is required.
Contacting Your Local Probate Court
It’s advisable to contact your local Webster County Probate Court well in advance of the wedding to determine office hours and availability. Some locations may require appointments.
Accepted Forms of Identification
The accepted forms of identification mentioned earlier serve as proof of age for the application process.
Waiting Period for Marriage
Georgia does not have a waiting period for getting married.
Residency Requirement
You do not need to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has previously been divorced, a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce is required.
Marriage License Fees
The fees for obtaining a marriage license in Webster County are as follows:
- $56 without completion of pre-marital education
- $16 with completion of pre-marital education
In addition, 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.
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not permitted in Georgia.
Cousin Marriages
First and second cousins are legally allowed to marry in Georgia.
Common Law Marriages
While Georgia does not allow common law marriages created after January 1, 1997, it does recognize those created before this date.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required in Georgia for obtaining a marriage license.
Verifying Information
It’s essential to verify all information with your local Webster County Probate Court before making any arrangements, as requirements and procedures may change.
Name Change after Marriage
Georgia law requires applicants to designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. This could include:
- Present surname
- Surname of a previous marriage
- Spouse’s surname
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If either applicant is 16 or 17 years old, parental consent is required.
Proof of Age
Proof of age is required during the application process. This can be provided through documents such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, or other official records.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate marriages in Georgia.
Marriage Witnesses
In cases where the person performing the ceremony does not complete the necessary form, two witnesses are required for obtaining the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Georgia marriage licenses do not have an expiration date.
Online Marriage Application
Georgia offers the convenience of applying for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Copy of Certificate of Marriage License
After the marriage is recorded, a copy of the marriage license certificate can be obtained from Vital Records.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is an important step on the journey to marriage. Georgia’s marriage license fees and requirements aim to ensure that couples have a smooth and legal path to matrimony. By understanding the outlined procedures and necessary documents, couples can navigate the application process with ease.
FAQs
- Can I apply for a marriage license online in Georgia? Yes, Georgia offers an online application process through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- Is there a waiting period for marriage in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.
- Do I need to be a resident of Georgia to obtain a marriage license? No, residency in Georgia is not a requirement for obtaining a marriage license.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Georgia? No, proxy marriages are not permitted in Georgia.
- What is the fee for a marriage license in Georgia with pre-marital counseling? The fee for a marriage license with pre-marital counseling is $16, provided a certificate of completion is presented.
