How to Apply For a Marriage License in Georgia

The Peach State is a “peachy” place to tie the knot. With St. Simons Island and Georgia's Golden Isles nearby, waterfront weddings make for lovely ceremonies. If you’re planning to marry in Georgia, make sure you get your marriage license first.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Identification
• Cash

1. Collect two forms of identification including birth certificate, driver’s license, military ID or valid passport for both the bride and groom.
2. Gather certified final divorce decrees if either or both parties have been married previously. Alternatively, a certificate of death of a previous spouse should be obtained.
3. Visit the Web site under the Resources section to find the location of the marriage license issuing office in the county where the bride resides. If the bride does not live in Georgia, choose the office of the where the ceremony will take place.
4. Visit the county Web site and find the cost of the marriage license in the city or county office you will be applying.
5. Head to the county office with bride, groom, documentation (including premarital certificate) and $26 to $40 cash within 30 days of the ceremony.

Tips & Warnings

• First cousin marriages are permitted.
• Minors 16 and 17 years old may marry with written, notarized consent from both parents. There is an additional fee for this.
• Many counties in Georgia offer free, non-religious premarital counseling and classes.
• Both the bride and the groom must be present to apply for and sign the marriage license.
• Georgia marriage licenses are valid for 30 days.
• Proxy, common law and same sex marriages are forbidden.

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