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How do I get a marriage license in Georgia?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Georgia is one of the most flexible states for marriage licensing thanks to its long validity window and premarital-course discount.

1. Where to Apply

  • Any Probate Court in Georgia (O.C.G.A. § 19-3-30).
  • Both parties must appear together.

    • 2. ID and Documents

  • Government-issued photo ID and Social Security number.
  • Previously married: certified divorce decree or death certificate.

    • 3. Fees

  • $56 for Georgia residents; $16 if you provide a certificate of completion for a 6-hour qualified premarital education course (O.C.G.A. § 19-3-30.1).
  • $76 flat for non-residents.

    • 4. Waiting Period and Expiration

  • No waiting period — issued same day.
  • License valid 6 months (180 days) — one of the longest validity windows nationally.

    • 5. Age and Residency

  • 18 minimum with no exceptions — Georgia banned minor marriages in 2019 (O.C.G.A. § 19-3-2).
  • No residency requirement.

    • 6. Blood Test and Same-Sex Marriage

  • No blood test required.
  • Same-sex marriage legal since Obergefell (2015); prior Georgia constitutional ban (Art. I, § IV, ¶ I) is unenforceable.

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Underage marriage (banned in GA post-2019)
    • Marriage to an immigrant for immigration status purposes
    • Complex prior divorce or international decree validity issues
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • O.C.G.A. § 19-3-2
    • O.C.G.A. § 19-3-30
    • O.C.G.A. § 19-3-30.1
    • Obergefell v. Hodges, 576 U.S. 644 (2015)

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.