Search Pike County Marriage License

Marriage licenses in Pike County are issued by the Probate Court in Zebulon. Both people must appear at the court in person with valid photo ID to apply. The standard fee is $56, or $16 if you have a premarital education certificate. Pike County is south of Atlanta in the central part of the state. Georgia requires no blood test and no waiting period for a marriage license. The probate court in Zebulon handles all applications during regular weekday business hours. Walk-ins are welcome.

Pike County Probate Court

The Pike County Probate Court is in Zebulon, the county seat. This is the only office in the county that issues marriage licenses. The staff processes marriage license applications and can help you with the forms.

Zebulon is about 50 miles south of Atlanta. The courthouse is in the center of the small town and parking is free. Pike County is a rural area, so the court is typically less busy than urban offices. Arrive with your documents ready and the process should go quickly.

Pike County Marriage License Requirements

Both applicants must come to the Pike County Probate Court together. No one can apply on your behalf. Each person needs valid photo ID. These types are accepted:

• State driver's license or ID card
• Valid U.S. passport
• Certified birth certificate
• Military ID

If either applicant was married before, bring proof the prior marriage ended. A certified divorce decree or death certificate works. The court checks this before it will issue a new license. You must be 18 or older. Under OCGA 19-3-2, Georgia sets the minimum age for marriage.

Georgia residents can apply in any county. You do not have to live in Pike County. Out-of-state residents must get the license from the county where the ceremony will take place. Blood tests have not been required since 2003.

Pike County Marriage License Fees

The standard fee is $56. Couples with a premarital education certificate pay $16. The course must be at least six hours. A licensed counselor, therapist, or clergy member must lead it. Finish the course within 12 months of applying.

Bring your certificate of completion on the day you apply. Without it, you owe the full $56. Call (770) 567-2000 to ask about payment methods at the Pike County Probate Court. Once paid, fees cannot be refunded.

Georgia Marriage License Resources

Georgia posts marriage license details on its website. Visit georgia.gov for statewide information that covers all counties.

For Pike County specifics, call the Zebulon probate court. They can answer questions about local fees, payment options, and any other details.

After the Wedding

The officiant signs the license right after the ceremony. Send it back to the Pike County Probate Court within 30 days. OCGA 19-3-30 requires this step. Mail it or drop it off.

The court records the license and mails your marriage certificate. Allow up to 30 days for this. If you have not received it within 45 days, call (770) 567-2000.

The marriage certificate is an important document. Store it in a safe place. You will need it for name changes, tax updates, insurance modifications, and other legal tasks. Additional certified copies are available from the Pike County Probate Court.

Online Application and Records Search

Begin the application online at the Georgia Probate Records portal. Print the form and take it to the Pike County courthouse. You must still appear in person with your ID and payment.

To search for existing marriage records, use the marriage record search tool. The state vital records office at dph.georgia.gov has records from June 1952 through August 1996. Contact the Pike County Probate Court for records outside that range.

Tips for Visiting the Pike County Courthouse

The Pike County Probate Court is a small office. That works in your favor most days. Wait times are short and the staff is not rushed. Still, a few things can help your visit go smoothly. Bring all your documents the first time. If you forget something, you have to come back, and Zebulon is not close to much else.

Call ahead to confirm hours. Small offices sometimes close for lunch or staff meetings. Make sure both people are present. The court will not process the application if only one person shows up. Pay attention to the clock, too. Try to arrive at least 30 minutes before the office closes so the staff has time to finish your paperwork. Getting your Pike County marriage license should take about 20 minutes once you sit down with the clerk.

Nearby Counties

Pike County borders several counties south of Atlanta. Georgia residents can get a marriage license from any county in the state.