White Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Are wedding bells ringing in your future? Congratulations! But before you exchange your vows and celebrate your love, there’s a crucial step you need to take care of: obtaining a marriage license. In Georgia, this process comes with a few intricacies that you should be aware of. From application requirements to fees and important details, let’s delve into everything you need to know about marriage license fees in Georgia.
Introduction
Walking down the aisle is a momentous occasion, but it all starts with the legal aspect: obtaining a marriage license. In Georgia, this process is fairly straightforward, but it’s important to understand the requirements and fees associated with it.
Marriage License Application Requirements
Before you say “I do,” you need to make sure you have all the necessary documents in order. To apply for a marriage license in Georgia, here’s what you need:
- Valid identification for each applicant.
- If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a Court Approved Translator will be required.
- Certified copies of divorce papers if either applicant has been previously married.
- Certified copy of death certificate if either applicant is widowed.
- Parents’ birthplace (city and state).
- Mother’s maiden name.
- The bride’s full name after marriage.
- Date and place of marriage.
Marriage ID Requirements
To prove your identity, you’ll need one of the following:
- Driver’s license
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Marriage Waiting Period
Good news: there’s no waiting period for getting married in Georgia. Once you have your license, you’re good to go!
Marriage Residency Requirement
You don’t have to be a resident of Georgia to get married here. Love knows no boundaries, after all.
Previous Marriages: Divorce Records
If you or your spouse have been previously married, you’ll need to provide a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce.
Marriage License Fees
Ah, the all-important question: how much does it cost? In White County, the fees are as follows:
- $56 without pre-marital counseling.
- $16 with pre-marital counseling (certificate of completion required).
Proxy Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia. Both parties must be present to obtain a marriage license.
Cousin Marriages
Surprisingly, first and second cousins may legally marry in Georgia.
Common Law Marriages
While common-law marriages aren’t recognized if created after January 1, 1997, they are still valid if established before that date.
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 you to designate the legal surname you’ll use after marriage. You can choose your present surname, a previous marriage surname, or your spouse’s surname.
Name Change
Getting a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name. You can use an online marriage name change kit for this purpose.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. If one applicant is 16 or 17, written parental consent is required. No license will be issued if either applicant is under 16.
Marriage Proof of Age
Proof of age is required at the time of application. Acceptable proof includes birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.
Marriage Officiants
Licensed ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings.
Marriage Witnesses
If the person performing the ceremony doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are needed to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
The Georgia marriage license doesn’t have an expiration date.
Georgia Online Marriage Application
You can apply for your marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Obtaining a Copy of the Certificate
After your marriage is recorded, you can obtain a copy of the certificate from the Vital Records office in Atlanta.
Conclusion
And there you have it—the ins and outs of marriage license fees in Georgia. Before you walk down the aisle, make sure you have all the necessary documents and information to ensure a smooth process. Whether you’re a Georgia resident or not, love knows no bounds, and with these guidelines, you’re ready to start this exciting new chapter.
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.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, there’s no waiting period once you have your marriage license in Georgia.
- Can I change my name through the marriage license process? While your new name can appear on your marriage license, it doesn’t automatically change your name. You can use a marriage name change kit for that purpose.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Georgia? No, proxy marriages are not allowed. Both parties must be present to obtain a marriage license.
- What is the cost of a marriage license in Georgia? The cost varies depending on whether you opt for pre-marital counseling. It’s $56 without counseling and $16 with counseling.
