Search Dawson County Marriage License
Marriage license applications in Dawson County go through the Probate Court in Dawsonville. Located in the foothills of north Georgia, Dawson County has grown steadily over the past two decades. The probate court handles all marriage license filings for the county and serves walk-in applicants during regular business hours. Both parties must be present with valid identification. No appointment is required, and the process typically takes less than 30 minutes if you have everything ready. Georgia residents from any part of the state can apply at this court.
Dawson County Marriage License Quick Facts
Dawson County Probate Court Information
The Dawson County Probate Court in Dawsonville issues all marriage licenses for the county. The office is in the Dawson County Government Center. Staff members process applications on a first-come, first-served basis during normal hours.
| Office | Dawson County Probate Court |
|---|---|
| Address | P.O. Box 192, Dawsonville, GA 30534 |
| Phone | (706) 344-3510 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
It is a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing. Late arrivals may be asked to come back the next business day. The court does not issue licenses on state holidays or weekends.
If you have questions about your specific situation, call (706) 344-3510. The court staff can tell you what documents to bring and answer questions about fees or timing.
Requirements for a Dawson County Marriage License
Both people must visit the Dawson County Probate Court in person. No one can apply on your behalf. Each applicant needs valid photo identification. The following forms of ID are accepted:
- State-issued driver's license or ID card
- Valid U.S. passport
- Certified birth certificate (original or certified copy)
- Military ID
Anyone who was previously married must provide proof the prior marriage ended. A certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate is required. Photocopies are not accepted. The document must be an official certified copy.
You must be 18 or older to get a marriage license in Georgia. Minors aged 17 may apply with a court order of emancipation. No blood test is needed. There is no waiting period. Once the license is issued, you can have your ceremony right away.
Dawson County Marriage License Fees
The marriage license fee in Dawson County is $56. This is the standard rate across most Georgia counties. Couples who complete a qualifying premarital education program pay $16 instead. That is a $40 savings.
The counseling program must include at least six hours of instruction. It can be done through a licensed counselor, a religious leader, or an approved online provider. You must complete the program within 12 months of your application and bring the signed certificate with you to the courthouse.
Call ahead to ask about payment methods. The Dawson County Probate Court may accept cash, checks, or cards, but policies can vary. Confirming before you go helps avoid any issues at the counter.
Dawson County Marriage License Online Tools
Start your application online at the Georgia Probate Records portal. This lets you fill out the form before your trip to the courthouse. Print the completed application and bring it to the Dawson County Probate Court along with your ID and payment.
The Georgia.gov marriage license page has a general overview of the process that applies to all counties in the state.
This page covers the steps, fees, and legal requirements you should know before visiting the Dawson County courthouse.
After Your Ceremony in Dawson County
The officiant signs the marriage license right after the ceremony. Then the signed license must be returned to the Dawson County Probate Court within 30 days. You can mail it or bring it back in person.
The court records the license and mails you a certified marriage certificate. This typically takes a few weeks. If more than 45 days pass and you still have not received it, call the court to check on the status. Make a copy of the signed license before submitting it, just in case.
The marriage certificate is the official proof of your marriage. You will need it for name changes, insurance updates, and other legal matters. Keep it in a safe place.
Search Dawson County Marriage Records
To look up a marriage record from Dawson County, contact the Probate Court at (706) 344-3510. The court maintains records for all marriages filed in the county. You can also search the Georgia Probate Records search tool for digital records.
The Georgia Department of Public Health keeps state marriage records from June 1952 through August 1996. You can request those through dph.georgia.gov. For anything outside that range, the Dawson County Probate Court is your primary source.
Nearby Counties
These counties are near Dawson County. Georgia residents can apply for a marriage license in any county, so a neighboring court may be more convenient depending on where you live.