Legal Requirements

Marriage licenses may be obtained at the Lumpkin County Probate Court Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. The Probate Court is located in the Lumpkin County Justice Center at 325 Riley Road, Room 122, Dahlonega. Call (706) 864-3847 for directions, fees, and further information.

Marriage licenses can be paid for in cash, by personal check, or money order only. The Probate Court does not accept debit or credit cards. A discount on the cost of the license is available for couples who have completed a premarital counseling course.

Both the bride and groom must appear in person to apply for the marriage license. If either party is a resident of Georgia, application for the marriage license can be obtained in any Georgia county and the marriage can take place in any county in Georgia. However, if neither party is a resident of Georgia, the application must be made in the county where the marriage ceremony is to be performed. Applicants must provide one of the following: photo identification issued by a state or federal government entity that has not expired, a certified birth certificate, or a valid passport.

If either party has been previously married and divorced, they must present a copy of their final divorce decree with the presiding judge's signature. Women who have had their maiden name restored after a divorce must have their name changed on their identification before coming to Probate Court should they wish for their marriage license to be issued in their maiden name.