Georgia State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Georgia, also known as The Peach State, must be at least 18 years of age and must provide two forms of valid identification, which may include a driver’s license, birth certificate, passport and/or military ID, when applying for a marriage license.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, and there is no waiting period.  If either of the intended were previously married, a copy of the divorce decree or former spouse’s death certificate must be provided.   

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Georgia must have written parental consent and must have both parents present at the time the application is submitted.  If the bride is pregnant, consent is not required when a physician’s statement is produced confirming the pregnancy.  In a case where parental consent is not required for those under the age of 18 to be wed, the court will notify the parents or guardian that a marriage license has been issued.  Georgia does not permit those under the age of 16 to be married. 

The state of Georgia does not have any residential requirements, which means you can exchange vows even if you are not a resident of the state.  Vacationers, former residents and all others are free to tie the knot in this southern state.  Once granted, a Georgia marriage license does not expire.  Application and/or marriage license fees may vary by county, which means you must check with the local courthouse regarding the actual cost and acceptable payment methods.  The average fee starts at $26.00, but may be more depending on the county.  It is advisable that applicants have cash on hand in the event that credit cards are not accepted. 

Same sex marriage is not permitted in the state of Georgia.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are not recognized in the state unless they were created before January 1, 1997.  A wedding can be officiated by a licensed ordained minister, clergyman or pastor of a recognized religious society.  A justice of the peace may also perform weddings in the state of Georgia. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the Cherokee rose, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make Georgia a ‘peachy’ choice for an upcoming wedding. 

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice.  Marriage laws and requirements can change, which means that you should check with your county courthouse regarding the application process for a marriage license, laws, fees and other requirements.   

To obtain a copy of an Georgia marriage certificate, send $10.00 to: Georgia Department of Human Resources, Vital Records, 2600 Skyland Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30319-3640.  Marriage documents for those occurring before June 9, 1952 or after July 1, 1997 must be requested in the county where the marriage license was issued.

Georgia Family Code

Sec. 19-3-1 to Sec. 19-3-68 provide information on Georgia's marriage laws.