What Documents Do You Need to Get Married in Georgia?

1. Proof of Identity and Age

When you decide to get married in Georgia, both parties must provide proof of identity and age. This usually means presenting a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification include:

• Driver’s License: A current Georgia driver’s license or one from another state.
• Passport: A U.S. or foreign passport.
• Military ID: A valid military identification card.

You must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. If you are under 18, you’ll need to provide proof of parental consent and, in some cases, a court order.

2. Social Security Number

Both parties must provide their Social Security numbers when applying for a marriage license. This is used to verify identity and ensure that no legal impediments to the marriage exist. If one or both parties do not have a Social Security number, a notarized affidavit explaining the situation may be required.

3. Marriage License Application

To get a marriage license in Georgia, you must apply in person at a probate court. Here’s what you need to bring:

• Completed Application Form: The form will ask for personal information including names, addresses, and Social Security numbers.
• Fee: The cost varies by county but generally ranges from $56 to $100. Some counties may offer a discount if you complete a premarital education course.

4. No Residency Requirement

Georgia does not require either party to be a resident of the state to get married. You can be from out-of-state or even out of the country and still obtain a marriage license in Georgia.

5. No Waiting Period

Unlike some states, Georgia does not impose a waiting period. Once you obtain your marriage license, you can get married immediately.

6. No Blood Test

Georgia does not require blood tests or physical examinations before marriage. This makes the process a bit simpler compared to states with such requirements.

7. Witnesses and Officiants

A marriage in Georgia must be performed by a person authorized to do so. This includes:

• Ordained Ministers or Priests: Religious officiants who are recognized by their faith.
• Judges or Magistrates: Court officials who can legally conduct ceremonies.
• Other Authorized Individuals: This includes justices of the peace or other persons approved by the state.

You must also have two witnesses present during the ceremony who are at least 18 years old. They will sign the marriage license as witnesses.

8. Marriage License Return

After the ceremony, the officiant must sign the marriage license and return it to the probate court that issued it. This is crucial for the marriage to be legally recorded. The court will then process the license and provide you with a certified copy, which serves as proof of marriage.

9. Name Change Procedures

If either party decides to change their name after marriage, they will need to update their identification documents, Social Security records, and other official records. This typically involves submitting a marriage certificate to various agencies, including the Social Security Administration and the Department of Motor Vehicles.

10. Special Circumstances

In some cases, additional documentation might be required, such as:

• Previous Marriages: If either party has been previously married, they may need to provide a copy of the final divorce decree or a death certificate if their former spouse has passed away.
• Court Orders: If either party has had a name change or legal issues, court documentation may be necessary.

By ensuring you have all the required documents and following these steps, you can make your journey to the altar in Georgia smooth and stress-free. Whether you're a local or planning a destination wedding in Georgia, understanding these requirements will help you prepare for your big day with confidence.