Licence to Wed In Georgia

Information you need to know to wed in Ga

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.

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 Information

Officiants:

Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, or pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace.

Copy of Certificate of Marriage:

Vital Records
2600 Skyland Drive NE
Atlanta, GA 30319-3640
Phone: (404) 679-4701

PLEASE NOTE:

State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.

Please notify us of any oversights or errors.

Suggested Reading

• Marriage Licenses


• Atlanta Wedding Resources


• More on Getting Married in Georgia

http://marriage.about.com/cs/marriagelicenses/p/georgia.htm