Marion County Marriage License Search
Marriage licenses in Marion County are handled by the Probate Court in Buena Vista. Both applicants must visit the court in person to apply. The standard fee is $56 for most couples, though those who complete premarital counseling pay only $16. Marion County is a small, rural county in west-central Georgia. There is no blood test and no waiting period. Once you have your license, you can hold the ceremony right away. The court follows the same state rules that apply across all Georgia counties.
Marion County Marriage License Quick Facts
Marion County Probate Court
The Marion County Probate Court is the only place to get a marriage license in this county. The office is in Buena Vista, the county seat. It is a small office, but the staff handles marriage licenses on a regular basis and can guide you through each step.
| Office | Marion County Probate Court |
|---|---|
| Address | P.O. Box 41, Buena Vista, GA 31803 |
| Phone | (229) 649-2361 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
Buena Vista is about 30 miles south of Columbus. Parking near the courthouse is free. If you have any questions about what to bring, call ahead. The office may close briefly for lunch, so calling before your trip is a good idea.
Marriage License Requirements
Both people must show up at the Marion County Probate Court together. No proxies are allowed. Each person must bring valid photo identification. The court accepts these types of ID:
- State-issued driver's license or ID card
- Valid U.S. passport
- Certified birth certificate
- Military ID
Were you married before? Bring proof that the marriage ended. A certified divorce decree or a death certificate works. The court needs to see this before they can issue a new license. Both applicants need to be 18 or older. Under OCGA 19-3-2, a 17-year-old may marry only with proof of emancipation and a premarital education certificate. No one under 17 can apply.
Georgia has had no blood test requirement since 2003. You also do not need to be a Marion County resident. Any Georgia resident can apply here. Out-of-state couples must apply in the county where the ceremony will happen.
Marion County Marriage License Fees
The fee is $56 for a standard license. If you and your partner complete premarital education, the cost is $16. The course must be at least six hours. A licensed counselor, therapist, or clergy member must lead it. Complete the course within 12 months of your application date.
Bring the certificate of completion on the day you apply. Without it, you owe the full amount. Ask the court about payment options when you call. Some rural county courts prefer cash or check. All fees are final and non-refundable.
The reduced fee comes from OCGA 19-3-30.1. Georgia law encourages couples to take premarital courses by cutting the cost significantly. The $16 covers the court's administrative expenses only.
Georgia Marriage License Information
The State of Georgia provides marriage license details on its official website. Visit georgia.gov for general information that applies statewide.
The information on this state page covers every county in Georgia, Marion County included. For local details, contact the Probate Court in Buena Vista directly.
After the Ceremony
Your officiant signs the license after the wedding. The signed license must be returned to the Marion County Probate Court within 30 days. OCGA 19-3-30 requires this step. Mail it or take it back in person.
The court records the license and mails you a marriage certificate. Allow up to 30 days for processing. If 45 days pass without receiving it, call (229) 649-2361 to check the status of your certificate.
You will need the marriage certificate for name changes, insurance updates, and many other legal matters. Keep it somewhere safe. You can request additional certified copies from the Marion County Probate Court.
Online Application and Record Search
Start your application online at the Georgia Probate Records portal. Fill out the form, print it, and bring it to the courthouse. This saves time during your visit. You still need to go in person with your ID and payment.
Looking for existing marriage records? The marriage record search tool lets you look up records online. The state vital records office at dph.georgia.gov has records from June 1952 to August 1996. For anything outside that window, contact the Marion County Probate Court.
Nearby Counties
Marion County is surrounded by several other Georgia counties. Georgia residents are free to get a marriage license from any county, so a nearby court might work better if Marion County's schedule does not fit yours.