Here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a Georgia marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your wedding date.
Congratulations and much happiness as you begin your lifetime journey together!
Requirements may vary as each county in Georgia can have their own requirements and regulations.
Residency Requirement:
Do not have to be a resident of Georgia. However, if not a resident, you must apply in the county where the marriage is to be performed.Identification Requirement
Two valid forms of id such as drivers license, birth certificate, U. S. passport, Armed Forces ID card, or Resident Alien ID card. Applicants will also be asked to fill out a brief form.Premarital Education:
Cobb County offers a FREE Marital Workshop called FOCUS ON FOREVER. It is a skill-based non-religious workshop designed to address issues concerning communication and listening skills, anger management, and financial planning. Contact the Cobb County Superior Court for more information.
This workshop does not qualify for the Premartial Education Progam.
To register for the workshop, please visit the Cobb Superior Court Administration Web site.
To register for the workshop, please visit the Cobb Superior Court Administration Web site.
By state law, counties in Georgia now charge more for a marriage license if you do not show certification of a premarital education program.
Previous Marriage:
If divorced within six months, you will need to show a copy of your divorce decree. Some counties require a final divorce decree no matter how long you have been divorced. You can obtain a copy of your final divorce decree from the Superior Court in the county in which you filed for divorce.
Waiting Period:
There is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.
Fees:
It costs approximately $65.00 + to get married in Georgia. Some counties will only accept cash. The amount of the marriage license fee will be decreased by showing proof of receiving premarital counseling.
Other Tests:
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required in Georgia.
Common-Law Marriages:
No. However, your common-law marriage will be recognized in Georgia if it was created before January 1, 1997.
Proxy Marriages:
No.
Under 18:
Georgia changed the laws in 2006 concerning the minimum age to get married. Most Georgia county websites are stating that in order to apply for a marriage license, both of you have to be 18 years of age.Some of the county websites are stating that if either of you are 16 or 17 years of age, both parents (either biological or adoptive) or legal guardians must give their consent to your marriage in person and provide a certifified copy of your birth certificate along with valid identification. In some counties, a probate judge also has to approve the marriage license application of individuals who are 16 or 17 years old.
Anyone under the age of 16 cannot obtain a marriage license in Georgia.
Cousin Marriages:
Yes.Same Sex Marriages:
No. In November, 2004, voters passed a constitutional amendment banning same sex marriage. More InformationOfficiants:
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, or pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace.Copy of Certificate of Marriage:
Vital Records2600 Skyland Drive NE
Atlanta, GA 30319-3640
Phone: (404) 679-4701
