How to Get a Marriage License in Georgia
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Congrats, you’re preparing to take your relationship to the next level and get married! Getting married is a joyous occasion, and beyond all the glitz and glam, obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the process. If you’re planning to tie the knot in the state of Georgia, understanding the requirements and procedures for obtaining a marriage license is essential.
Let’s walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience:
Requirements
Both partners must appear together in person at the county clerk at the time of application. You will need to bring proof of your age and divorce (if applicable) and a method of payment when applying for a marriage license.
In Fulton County, the signed marriage license should be returned to the probate court within 30 days of the ceremony. You will then receive your marriage certificate in the mail within 30 days.
Who May Apply
Unmarried people who are at least 18 years of age, of sound mind, and have no living spouse from a prior un-dissolved marriage can apply for a marriage license.
If at least one applicant is a resident of Georgia, a marriage license can be issued at a probate court in any county. If neither applicant is a Georgia resident, then you must get your license issued from the county where the ceremony is taking place.
Exceptions:
- If you are 17 years of age when applying for a marriage license, you must show that you have been emancipated for no less than 15 days and present a certificate of completion of separate specialized premarital counseling for each applicant, even if one applicant is over 18.
What to Provide
For proof of age, you must provide one of the following to receive your marriage license:
- Valid U.S. driver’s license
- Original or certified copy of birth certificate
- Valid U.S. passport
- Or U.S. Armed Forces ID card
Counties may vary when it comes to forms of acceptable ID. Call your county clerk to verify what documentation you should bring.
If previously married, most counties require divorce decrees and/or death certificates of former spouses.
Cost
A marriage license fee differs depending on the county and ranges from $16-$76. Check with your local probate court for restrictions on payment.
In some counties, marriage license fees are discounted with the completion of a Qualified Premarital Education Program. This premarital education must be completed within 12 months prior to the application of the marriage license and the couple must undergo the education together.
If you intend to request multiple copies of your marriage license, be prepared to pay replication fees.
FULTON COUNTY FEE: $68.50 or $28.50 with Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program
DEKALB COUNTY FEE: $66 or $26 with Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program
COBB COUNTY FEE: $56 or $16 with Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program
FAYETTE COUNTY FEE: $76 or $36 with Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program
GWINNETT COUNTY FEE: $56 or $16 with Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program
ATHENS COUNTY FEE:$67 or $27 with Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program
CHATHAM COUNTY FEE: $66 or $26 with Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program
Waiting Period/Expiration of License
Georgia doesn’t have a waiting period before the license can be used. In some counties the license doesn’t expire, but in others, the license expires after six months. Also, verify how many days you have to return the license for filing.
Where to Go & Location-Specific Information
Marriage licenses are issued by county probate courts, so where you receive your marriage license can depend on residency and ceremony location. Since procedures for applications vary by county, call your county clerk’s office to verify requirements, hours and additional locations. Call your county clerk’s office to verify requirements, hours and additional locations.
We recommend getting two or three certified copies of your marriage license for name change and/or filing purposes.
FULTON COUNTY
Fulton Country Probate Court
136 Pryor St. SW, Suite C-230
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-613-4583
Fulton County Marriage License Application
DEKALB COUNTY
DeKalb County Courthouse
556 N. McDonough St., #1100
Decatur, GA 30030
404-371-2601
*Appointment required
DeKalb County Marriage License Application
COBB COUNTY
Cobb County Probate Court
32 Waddell St. SE
Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-1931
Cobb County Marriage License Application
FAYETTE COUNTY
Fayette County Probate Court
1 Center Dr.
Fayetteville, GA 30214
770-716-4220
Fayette County Marriage License Application
GWINNETT COUNTY
Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center
75 Langley Dr.
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
770-822-8350
Gwinnett County Marriage License Application
ATHENS COUNTY
Athens-Clarke County Probate Court
325 E. Washington St., Suite 200
Athens, GA 30601
706-613-3320
Athens County Marriage License Application
CHATHAM COUNTY
Chatham County Probate Court
133 Montgomery St., Room 509
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7264
Chatham County Marriage License Application
Obtaining a marriage license in Georgia is a straightforward process, but it’s important to be aware of the specific requirements and procedures in the county where you plan to marry. By following these steps and meeting the necessary criteria, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining a marriage license and celebrating your nuptials. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!
