Steps to Obtaining a Marriage License

Obtaining a marriage license is simple. The first thing the prospective couple should do is obtain premarital blood tests from the Health Department or private physician. The results of the blood tests must be presented on the Georgia Department of Human Resources Form No. 3411. The premarital blood test is mandatory under Georgia law. The couple must apply for a marriage license application within 30 days of the blood tests. There are no time restraints once a marriage license has been issued by the Probate Judge's office.

For ages 18 and up, a marriage license may be obtained at the Probate Court between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Sixteen-and seventeen-year old applicants may receive a license if both parents appear, present identification and consent in writing to the marriage. Both the bride and the groom must appear in person for the license. A marriage license cannot, by law, be issued to anyone under the age of 16 with or without parental consent, unless there is a pregnancy verified by a licensed physician.

Items to be brought to the Probate Judge's office when applying for a marriage license:

Proof of identity (driver's license or birth certificate)

Social Security numbers

Blood test results

A copy of the final decree of the last divorce, if applicable

The application process takes approximately 30 minutes