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Covered in costal beaches, mountain vistas, sprawling fields, and bustling cities, Georgia offers so many breathtaking backdrops that will enhance any couple’s wedding celebration. From chic rooftop venues in Atlanta to historic homes in Savannah, this southeastern state is filled with locales that cater to every person’s preferences, making it an appealing wedding destination for all. Plus, with balmy weather year-round—especially with moderate temperatures in the winter—The Peach State is the perfect place to throw an outdoor function, no matter the season. Not to mention, Georgia has a rich cultural scene that includes art, music, food, and wine—elements that will surely contribute to the ambiance of your special day.

If you’re thinking about tying the knot in Georgia, as in any state, you’ll need to do a bit of planning ahead of time. One of the items on your checklist? Getting a marriage license. In order for the government to legally recognize your union, you'll need this legal document (especially for taxes and insurance). Since you and your partner will both need to appear in person at a specific bureau to obtain your license, if you don’t currently reside there, you’ll have to schedule a trip to get this necessary wedding detail squared away.

For help navigating this process with ease, we turned to Melinda Guess, a Georgia wedding officiant who has plenty of experience guiding her couples as they obtain their licenses. Wondering how to get married in Georgia? Below, read up on everything you’ll need to know to get your Georgia marriage license.

Where to Get a Marriage License in Georgia

If either you or your spouse (or both of you) are residents of Georgia, you can apply for a marriage license in any county in the state, regardless of where your wedding is taking place. However, if neither of you is a resident and you're traveling to Georgia for your nuptials, you must apply for your marriage license in the county where your ceremony will occur.

The application process usually takes place inside the county's probate court. For instance, in Fulton County, where Atlanta is located, you can apply at one of three probate courts, which are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and welcome walk-ins (although, there may be a wait time of up to two hours, Guess notes). In some counties, such as Chatham County (where Savannah is) or Clayton County (a more rural part of the state), you may have to file a request online before you secure an in-person appointment to sign the forms. Check the county you're applying in for their specific requirements.

When to Apply for a Marriage License in Georgia

Since there is no expiration date for Georgia marriage licenses, you can acquire your license as far in advance as you'd like. “In the state of Georgia, marriage licenses don’t expire, so I encourage my couples to go as early as possible to check it off the list,” Guess says. Without any waiting period, you can tie the knot immediately after you receive your form. In most counties, you'll receive your license the same day you apply, but to be on the safe side, it's best to plan ahead of time.

Documentation Needed To Obtain a Marriage License in Georgia

There are a few items you'll need to bring to your in-person appointment in order to get a marriage license in Georgia.

Proof of Age: Since you must be at least 18 years old to get married in Georgia, you'll have to prove your age. To do so, provide one of the following documents: your birth certificate, driver’s license, baptismal certificate, passport, immigration papers, hospital admission card with the full name and date of birth, etc.

Proof of Divorce or Death: If one of you has been divorced in the past, you'll need to know the date your divorce was finalized. If your divorce happened close to the day you're applying for your license—within 30 days or less—you're required to present a copy of the divorce decree. If either party is widowed, make sure to bring a copy of the death certificate or obituary.

Money: In Georgia, marriage licenses cost approximately $68. You may also have to pay additional fees, depending on where you're applying. You can pay in cash (but no bills larger than $20), money order, or credit card. To reduce the price to $16, you'll need to provide a certificate, saying you completed a state-approved premarital education program.

How to Get Married in Georgia

After you receive your Georgia marriage license, be sure to bring it with you to the ceremony. Before you trade vows, your officiant will examine the document. Then, after you say “I do,” the individual presiding over your service will complete the forms and sign it. Note that for Georgia weddings, witnesses aren’t mandatory, so you won’t need additional people to sign on the dotted line. Within 30 days after your big day, your officiant will return your marriage license to the probate court. Once the court processes the license—which can take up to 30 days—they’ll send you the marriage certificate, which proves that you’re legally married.