Brookhaven Marriage License
Marriage licenses for Brookhaven residents are handled by the DeKalb County Probate Court in Decatur. Brookhaven does not issue marriage licenses as a city. You must apply at the county level. Located in the heart of DeKalb County with nearly 59,400 people, Brookhaven is one of the most populated cities in the county. The probate court office is in Decatur, a short drive south on surface streets. An online application and a scheduled appointment are both required before you can pick up your license.
Brookhaven Marriage License Quick Facts
Where to Get a Brookhaven Marriage License
Brookhaven residents apply at the DeKalb County Probate Court. The court is located at 556 N. McDonough Street, Room B190, in Decatur. Both applicants must visit the office in person to complete the application process.
You can view the DeKalb County Probate Court page for full marriage license details and appointment scheduling for Brookhaven couples.
The image above shows the DeKalb County Probate Court site where Brookhaven residents start the application process.
| Court | DeKalb County Probate Court |
|---|---|
| Address | 556 N. McDonough St, Room B190, Decatur, GA 30030 |
| Phone | (404) 371-2601 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (by appointment) |
The DeKalb County Probate Court uses a two-step process. First, fill out the online application. Then, book an in-person appointment. Both steps must be done. You cannot skip the online part and just show up. This system helps the court move faster on appointment days.
Brookhaven Marriage License Requirements
Both applicants must appear together at the probate court. Each person needs a valid photo ID. A driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID will work. You also need your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, the number itself is enough.
Previously married applicants need to show proof the prior marriage ended. A certified divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate is needed. Georgia does not need a blood test. There is no waiting period. Your license is good the same day it is issued.
Both applicants must be at least 18. A 17-year-old can apply with proof of legal emancipation, but this is rare. No one under 17 can marry in Georgia. Fill out the online application before your visit. Print the confirmation page and bring it along.
Marriage License Fees for Brookhaven
The standard marriage license in DeKalb County costs $66. This applies to all Brookhaven residents who have not done premarital counseling. Couples who complete a qualifying premarital education program pay $26 instead. That is $40 less.
The premarital course must last at least six hours and be led by a licensed professional or clergy member. Complete it within 12 months before your application. Bring the signed certificate to your appointment. Many counselors and churches near Brookhaven offer programs that meet the state standard.
All fees are non-refundable. Additional certified copies of the marriage certificate cost extra. Credit card payments may include a convenience fee. Ask the clerk about current payment options when you schedule your appointment or call (404) 371-2601.
After Your Brookhaven Wedding
The officiant signs the marriage license after the ceremony takes place. Return the signed license to the DeKalb County Probate Court within 30 days. Mail it to 556 N. McDonough Street, Room B190, Decatur, GA 30030 or drop it off in person. The court records the marriage and sends a certified copy by mail.
Processing takes several weeks. If you have not received your certificate after 45 days, reach out to the probate court. Keep your own copy of the signed license in the meantime. You will need the certified marriage certificate for name changes, insurance updates, and other legal steps.
Search Brookhaven Marriage Records
Search for existing marriage records through the Georgia Probate Records search tool. This free database covers DeKalb County and other participating counties statewide. You can filter results by name and county.
The Georgia Department of Public Health holds marriage records from June 1952 to August 1996. For anything outside that range, contact the DeKalb County Probate Court directly. Online services like VitalChek can also process Georgia marriage record orders for an extra fee.
Brookhaven residents looking for older records should include both spouses' full names and an approximate date when they make a request. This helps the court locate the right file faster.
Nearby DeKalb Cities
Brookhaven shares DeKalb County with Stonecrest and Dunwoody. All three cities use the same probate court in Decatur for marriage licenses. If you live close to the Fulton County line, you could also apply at the Fulton County Probate Court instead. Georgia law lets residents use any county's probate court for a marriage license.
DeKalb County Marriage License Records
Brookhaven is part of DeKalb County. All marriage licenses are issued by the DeKalb County Probate Court in Decatur. For full county details, fees, and resources, visit the county page below.