So You're Tying the Knot in ATL: How to Get Your Marriage License in Atlanta (Without Getting Cold Feet)
Congratulations! You've braved the awkward "meeting the parents" stage, survived endless rounds of "will you?" glances across crowded restaurants, and now you're ready to embark on the glorious (and sometimes slightly terrifying) journey of married life. But before you can say "I do" and clink champagne flutes (or sweet tea glasses, if that's more your style), there's a little administrative hurdle to jump: the marriage license.
Fear not, lovebirds! Getting your marriage license in Atlanta is easier than navigating a plate of peach cobbler at a family reunion (and trust me, that can be a challenge). Here's your one-stop guide to getting hitched in the ATL, minus the drama.
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| How To Get A Marriage License In Atlanta Georgia |
Step 1: You Gotta Be 18 (or Close Enough...ish)
In Georgia, you gotta be at least 18 years old to get married. No exceptions, not even if your grandma swears you're wise beyond your years (although her wisdom on picking out a good watermelon might come in handy later). Now, for those daring teenagers out there, there is a slight loophole. If you're 17 years old, you can still get a marriage license, but you'll need to meet some additional requirements, like having your parents' permission and completing some premarital education courses (think of it as "Marriage 101: Don't Sweat the Small Stuff").
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Important Note: This isn't some high school hallway pass situation. Both you and your partner need to be present to apply for the license. So, ditch the "see you later" texts and make a day of it!
Step 2: The Paper Chase (Don't Worry, It's Not That Dramatic)
Alright, so you're over 18 (or have the necessary teenage-mutant-ninja-wedding paperwork). Now it's time to gather your documents. Think of it like your wedding guest list, but with less drama and way fewer plus-ones. Here's what you'll need:
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- Proof of Age: A valid driver's license, birth certificate, passport – anything that officially says "This person is old enough to know what they're doing."
- Social Security Numbers (optional): While not required, including your Social Security numbers can help speed up the process.
- Proof of Previous Marital Status (if applicable): If either of you has been married before, you'll need to bring a certified copy of your final divorce decree (or a death certificate if your spouse passed away).
Pro Tip: Make sure all your documents are valid and in good condition. Nobody wants their happily ever after to be delayed by a crumpled-up birth certificate.
Step 3: I Do, I Do... Pay the Fee
Love is priceless, but marriage licenses aren't. In Atlanta, you're looking at a fee of around $68.50. They accept cash, credit cards, and even the good ol' fashioned check (though hopefully your love life is a little more modern than that).
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But Wait, There's More! If you take a premarital education course (which can be a fun way to bond and learn some valuable communication skills), you can snag a discount on your license fee. It's a win-win!
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Step 4: The Big Day (At the Courthouse, Not Vegas)
With your documents in order and your pockets a little lighter, head down to your local Fulton County Probate Court (or any probate court in Georgia, really). Be prepared to wait a bit – love may be patient, but sometimes the line for the marriage license can be a doozy.
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What to Expect: The lovely folks at the courthouse will take your documents, have you fill out a quick application (think basic info, not a college essay), and then – bam! You're the proud owner of a marriage license. Just remember, this little piece of paper is like the fancy invitation to your happily ever after – treat it with care!
FAQ: Getting Hitched in Atlanta, Edition
How long does a marriage license last in Georgia?
Good news! Your Georgia marriage license never expires. So, you can hold onto it as a sentimental keepsake (or lose it in a drawer somewhere, no judgment).
How soon can we get married after getting our license?
There's no waiting period in Georgia, so you can tie the knot as soon as you have your license and your officiant lined up. Just remember to return the signed license to the courthouse within 3
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