Marriage License

In Georgia, your eligibility to marry primarily depends on your age, though there are other factors that might apply. For example, individuals who are 18 years or older can marry without any restrictions, while those who are 17 years need to meet specific conditions like being legally emancipated and completing premarital counseling with their intended spouse. However, as of July 1, 2019, individuals under the age of 17 are not permitted to marry under any circumstances.

For all marriage license needs in Emanuel County, the probate court is your go-to authority, ready to assist with every step of the process. In hopes of making the application process easier and faster, Judge Wilkes and his team have put together the below information to help you prepare for and to ultimately obtain your marriage license.

First, Apply Online

The marriage license application process is now done entirely online through the Georgia Office of Vital Records. It's a short, user-friendly form with four sections for both applicants to complete. There’s no need to create an account, and there’s no fee to use the service. Your responses are fed directly to the local probate court upon submission.

Then, Visit the Probate Court

Before you head out, be sure you have the following documentation ready. Both applicants must present:

  • A valid photo ID or birth certificate
  • Current address and phone number
  • Date and place of birth
  • Social Security Number and place of employment
  • Parents' names, including the mother’s maiden name
  • Parents' addresses and places of birth

If either applicant has been married before, you'll also have to provide a copy of the final divorce decree or a certified copy of the previous spouse’s death certificate, if applicable.

Both you and your intended spouse need to be present to sign your shared completed application in front of the clerk.

However, neither of you will be required to have a blood test. (Georgia did away with this requirement in 2003.)

Provide Your Documentation

In addition to meeting the initial requirements, you'll also need to provide specific documentation. Both applicants must present the following to the court:

  • A valid photo ID or birth certificate
  • Current address and phone number
  • Date and place of birth
  • Social Security Number and place of employment
  • Parents' names, including the mother’s maiden name
  • Parents' addresses and places of birth

Additionally, if either applicant has been married before, you must also provide a copy of the final divorce decree or a certified copy of the previous spouse’s death certificate, if applicable.

Pay Your Fee

The last step of the process is to pay your license fee. If you've completed premarital counseling, the cost will be $38. If you haven't, it'll be $78. You can pay by cash, money order, cashier's check, debit or credit card (plus a processing fee), or local check.

The local probate court provides a Premarital Education Certificate for those who plan to seek counseling to reduce the license fee. You'll need to print it, have your counselor fill it out, and turn it in to Judge Wilkes or one of his staff members at the time of your visit.