Find Lanier County Marriage License
Marriage license filings in Lanier County are processed at the Probate Court in Lakeland. Lanier County is one of the smallest counties in Georgia, located in the southern part of the state near Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Despite its small size, the Probate Court offers full marriage license services. Both applicants must appear in person together with valid photo ID and the required fee. Walk-ins are taken during normal office hours. The process is fast and simple. A phone call ahead is recommended to make sure the office is open when you plan to arrive.
Lanier County Marriage License Quick Facts
Lanier County Probate Court
The Lanier County Probate Court in Lakeland handles all marriage licenses for the county. This is a small office, and you may work directly with the probate judge. The staff can answer questions and help with your application.
Georgia's general marriage license requirements are outlined on the state marriage license page.
The state resource covers the steps that apply in every Georgia county, including Lanier.
| Office | Lanier County Probate Court |
|---|---|
| Address | P.O. Box 580, Lakeland, GA 31635 |
| Phone | (229) 482-3012 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
Call before your trip, especially if you are traveling from out of the county. The office may close for court matters or holidays. Staff can confirm the schedule and answer any other questions.
Requirements for a Lanier County Marriage License
Both people must appear at the court. Each needs a valid photo ID. You have to be 18 or older.
- Driver's license or state-issued ID
- Certified birth certificate
- Valid U.S. passport
- Military ID
Bring proof if a prior marriage ended. A certified divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate is needed. The court cannot issue a new license until they have confirmation. Your Social Security number is required on the form but the card is not.
Georgia does not require blood tests. That rule was removed in 2003. There is no waiting period. After you get the license, you can have the ceremony right away. Georgia residents can apply in any county. Non-residents must marry in Lanier County if they obtained their license here.
You can fill out the application in advance at georgiaprobaterecords.com. Print the form and bring it to the courthouse.
Lanier County Marriage License Fees
The fee is $56 for a standard marriage license. Couples with a premarital education certificate pay $16 instead. The course must be at least six hours and completed within 12 months before your application.
All fees are non-refundable. Ask the court what payment methods they accept. The license fee covers one certified copy of the marriage certificate, which is mailed after the signed license is recorded.
Additional copies cost around $10 each. They are useful for name changes, updating government IDs, changing bank accounts, and insurance. Order them when you visit if you know you will need more than one.
After the Wedding Ceremony
The officiant signs the license after the wedding. The signed license needs to come back to the Lanier County Probate Court within 30 days. This is a state requirement.
Mail the signed license to: Lanier County Probate Court, P.O. Box 580, Lakeland, GA 31635. Or bring it back yourself. The court records the marriage and sends your certified certificate by mail. This usually takes two to four weeks.
Contact the court at (229) 482-3012 if your certificate has not arrived after 45 days. Keep the certificate in a secure location once you receive it. You will need it for various legal and personal updates.
Lanier County Marriage Record Search
You can search Lanier County marriage records using the Georgia Probate Records search tool. This online database lets you search by name.
Marriage records from June 1952 through August 1996 are also available through the Georgia Department of Public Health. For other years, contact the Lanier County Probate Court in Lakeland.
Certified copies can be ordered in person or by mail. Include both names, the approximate date, and a check or money order. Allow a couple of weeks for the court to process your request.
Nearby Counties
Lanier County borders several south Georgia counties. You can apply for a marriage license in any Georgia county that is more convenient.