Find DeKalb County Marriage License
Marriage license applications in DeKalb County go through the Probate Court at 556 North McDonough Street in Decatur. This court requires both an online application and an in-person appointment, so you cannot just walk in. DeKalb County borders Atlanta to the east and includes cities like Decatur, Stonecrest, Brookhaven, and Dunwoody. The Probate Court office is in the basement of the Judicial Tower, Room B190. Plan ahead because the appointment slots can fill up, and both people must appear together on the scheduled date.
DeKalb County Marriage License Quick Facts
DeKalb Probate Court Marriage License Info
The DeKalb County Probate Court handles all marriage licenses for the county. The office is in the basement of the Judicial Tower on North McDonough Street in Decatur. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. There is a midday break, so do not show up between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM.
Visit the DeKalb County Probate Court website for the latest on scheduling and forms. You can also call (404) 371-2601 or email bchargrove@dekalbcountyga.gov for questions about your application.
Below is the DeKalb County Probate Court website where you can find appointment and application details.
The online application is a required first step before you book your appointment.
| Address | 556 North McDonough Street, Room B190, Decatur, GA 30030 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (404) 371-2601 |
| bchargrove@dekalbcountyga.gov | |
| Hours | Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM |
| Payment | Cash, credit/debit ($2 card fee) |
How to Apply in DeKalb County
The process in DeKalb County has two parts. First, you fill out the online application. This is mandatory. You cannot skip it. Second, after completing the online form, you schedule an appointment at the Probate Court. Both steps must happen before you can get a license.
At the appointment, both people must be present with valid photo ID. A driver's license, state ID, or passport all work. If either person was previously married, bring a certified copy of the final divorce decree or death certificate. The court needs to see it before issuing a new license.
Appointments can be made up to 30 days in advance. Do not wait until the last minute. If your wedding date is coming up fast, call the office to see what openings they have. Processing at the appointment takes anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is that day.
DeKalb County Marriage License Fees
The standard fee for a marriage license in DeKalb County is $66. That is $10 more than the base rate in many other Georgia counties. If you bring a premarital education certificate, the fee is $26. The program must be at least six hours of instruction completed within the past 12 months.
A $2 service fee applies to credit card, debit card, and ACH payments. Cash is also accepted. All fees are non-refundable. Make sure you have all your paperwork in order before paying so you do not lose the fee on a denied application.
The DeKalb County license does not expire. Once issued, you can use it any time. After the ceremony, the signed license must be returned to the Probate Court within 30 days for recording.
DeKalb Marriage License Requirements
Georgia law sets the age at 18 to get a marriage license. A 17-year-old needs proof of emancipation and a premarital education certificate. No one under 17 can receive a license. Blood tests are not needed in Georgia. That rule was dropped in 2003.
Accepted forms of ID include:
- Valid driver's license or state-issued ID
- Valid U.S. or foreign passport
- Certified birth certificate
- Military ID
If you were divorced, bring the final decree. If your former spouse passed away, bring the death certificate. Georgia residents can apply in any county. Non-residents must apply in the county where the ceremony takes place.
After Your DeKalb County Wedding
Your officiant signs the marriage license right after the ceremony. Then the signed license goes back to the DeKalb County Probate Court within 30 days. You can mail it to 556 North McDonough Street, Room B190, Decatur, GA 30030 or bring it in person.
The court records the marriage and mails you a certified certificate. This usually takes a few weeks. If you need extra copies, they cost $10 each. For name changes, the marriage certificate serves as your proof document. Take it to the Social Security office and then the DMV.
Georgia Marriage License Laws
Marriage licenses in Georgia are governed by OCGA 19-3-30. This statute says probate court judges issue licenses between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM at the county courthouse. There is no waiting period. The license must be returned within 30 days after the ceremony.
The fee reduction for premarital education is found in OCGA 19-3-30.1. The course has to be at least six hours, done within 12 months, and led by a licensed professional. Both people must take the course together. Under OCGA 19-3-33, the application must be in writing, verified by oath, and include full names, birth dates, and addresses.
Cities in DeKalb County
DeKalb County covers a large area east of Atlanta. All residents apply for a marriage license at the DeKalb County Probate Court in Decatur, regardless of which city they live in.
Nearby Counties
Several counties border DeKalb. Georgia law lets you apply for a marriage license in any county where at least one person is a resident of the state.