Marriage License Requirements in Georgia
Georgia is unusual on two counts: marriage licenses are issued by the county Probate Court rather than a clerk’s office, and the license never expires. Requirements below apply statewide.
| Minimum age to marry | 18 to marry without a court order. |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | None — the license is valid the same day it’s issued. |
| License validity | No expiration date in most counties — a Georgia marriage license can generally be held indefinitely until you’re ready to marry. A small number of counties set their own shorter validity window, so confirm with your specific Probate Court if you’re not marrying right away. |
| Blood test required | No |
| Where to apply | If at least one applicant is a Georgia resident, you can apply at the Probate Court of any Georgia county, regardless of where the wedding will take place. If neither applicant is a Georgia resident, you must apply in the county where the ceremony will happen. |
| Documents you’ll need | Valid government-issued photo ID for both applicants (driver’s license, state ID, or passport). If either applicant was previously married, proof of how that marriage ended (divorce decree or death certificate) is required. |
What a Georgia marriage license typically costs
The fee is set by each county’s Probate Court, not by the state, so it varies — in our own researched counties it ranges from $56 to $68.50 for the standard fee. Nearly every Georgia county offers a substantial discount, often cutting the fee by $40–$52, for couples who complete a state-approved premarital education course (typically 6+ hours) and bring the certificate when applying. Select your county below for its exact fee.
Counties we cover in Georgia
Requirements above are set by Georgia state law and apply the same way in every county. The fee, hours, and exact application process are set locally — select your county above for those specifics.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Georgia marriage license cost?
It depends on the county, but expect somewhere between $56 and $70 for the standard fee. Most counties cut that by roughly $40–$50 if you complete a state-approved premarital education course and bring the certificate. Check your specific county’s guide for the exact current fee.
Do we have to apply in the county where we live?
No. If either of you is a Georgia resident, you can apply at any county Probate Court in the state, not just your home county. Only couples where neither person is a Georgia resident are required to apply in the county where the ceremony will take place.
Does a Georgia marriage license expire?
In most counties, no — the license can be held until you’re ready to marry, with no deadline. A few counties do set their own shorter validity window, so if you’re not planning to marry right away, confirm with the specific Probate Court where you applied.
Is a blood test required to get married in Georgia?
No. Georgia does not require a blood test or any medical exam to obtain a marriage license.
See how Georgia’s fees compare to other states → Getting married in a different county than you live in →