Access Valdosta Marriage License
Marriage licenses in Valdosta are issued by the Lowndes County Probate Court. The City of Valdosta does not process marriage licenses. Valdosta is the county seat of Lowndes County, with a population near 55,700. The probate court is on Ashley Street, right in the heart of downtown Valdosta. One major change to note: the Lowndes County Probate Court stopped performing wedding ceremonies in January 2025. You can still get a marriage license there, but you will need to find a separate officiant for the ceremony.
Valdosta Marriage License Quick Facts
Where to Get a Valdosta Marriage License
Valdosta residents apply at the Lowndes County Probate Court. The office is on the second floor at 327 N. Ashley Street, Valdosta, GA 31601. Both people must come in person. No appointment is needed. Walk in during business hours.
Here is the Lowndes County Probate Court page where Valdosta residents can check current hours and procedures.
The screenshot shows the Lowndes County Probate Court site that handles all Valdosta marriage license applications.
| Court | Lowndes County Probate Court |
|---|---|
| Address | 327 N. Ashley Street, 2nd Floor, Valdosta, GA 31601 |
| Phone | (229) 671-2650 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:15 PM |
The office accepts applications from 8:30 AM to 4:15 PM. Arrive early enough to finish the paperwork before close. The office is on the second floor of the county courthouse. Parking is available on surrounding streets and in nearby lots.
Valdosta Ceremony Policy Change
Starting in January 2025, the Lowndes County Probate Court no longer performs marriage ceremonies. This is a big change for Valdosta couples who used to rely on the courthouse for a quick wedding. You can still get a marriage license at the probate court, but you will need to hire a minister, judge, or other authorized officiant to perform the ceremony.
Georgia law allows any minister, judge, magistrate, or other authorized person to officiate a wedding. Many local churches and justices of the peace in the Valdosta area offer ceremony services. Some can come to you. Others hold services at their own location. Plan this part separately from getting your license.
Valdosta Marriage License Requirements
Both applicants appear together. Bring a valid photo ID like a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Social Security numbers are needed for both people.
If either person was previously married, bring a certified copy of the divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate. The court will not issue a new license without seeing proof that the old marriage ended. Georgia dropped its blood test rule in 2003. There is no waiting period. The license is valid right away.
You must be at least 18 years old. A 17-year-old can only apply with a court order of emancipation. No one under 17 can marry in Georgia. These rules come from state law and apply in every county, including Lowndes.
Marriage License Fees in Valdosta
The standard marriage license fee at the Lowndes County Probate Court is $56. Couples with a premarital education certificate pay $16. The $40 discount is worth it if you have the time to take the course.
The premarital course must be at least six hours. A licensed counselor, therapist, or clergy member must lead it. It has to be completed within 12 months of your application. Bring the signed certificate to the probate court.
Fees are non-refundable. Extra certified copies of the marriage certificate have an added cost. Cash and money orders are generally accepted. Call (229) 671-2650 to check current payment options before your visit. Some offices add a convenience fee for card payments.
After Your Valdosta Wedding
Your officiant signs the marriage license after the ceremony. The signed license must be returned to the Lowndes County Probate Court within 30 days. Mail it or drop it off in person at 327 N. Ashley Street, 2nd Floor, Valdosta, GA 31601. The court records the marriage and sends you a certified copy.
It takes a few weeks for the court to process and mail the certificate. If you have not heard back after 45 days, call the court. Keep a copy of the signed license for your own records. You will need the certified marriage certificate for name changes and other legal matters.
Search Valdosta Marriage Records
Search existing marriage records at the Georgia Probate Records search tool. This statewide database includes records from Lowndes County and other participating counties. It is free to search.
The Georgia Department of Public Health holds Georgia marriage records from June 1952 to August 1996. For records outside that period, ask the Lowndes County Probate Court. Third-party services like VitalChek also process Georgia vital records orders with added fees.
Lowndes County Marriage License Records
Valdosta is the county seat of Lowndes County. All marriage licenses are issued by the Lowndes County Probate Court. For the full list of fees, contact details, and resources for Lowndes County, visit the county page.