Unlocking Love: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Marriage License in North Carolina

Getting married is a cherished moment for many couples, and it all starts with obtaining a marriage license. If you and your significant other are planning to tie the knot in North Carolina, then you may be wondering about the process of getting a marriage license. Well, look no further because we have all the information you need. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of how to get a marriage license in North Carolina so that you can begin your journey towards happily ever after. So, whether you’re a native North Carolinian or planning a destination wedding in this beautiful state, read on to learn all about the requirements and procedures for obtaining your marriage license.

Getting married is an exciting and life-changing event, but before you can walk down the aisle, you need to make sure you have all the necessary legal requirements in place. This includes obtaining a marriage license, which serves as a legal document authorizing a couple to marry. Each state has its own set of laws and procedures for obtaining a marriage license, so if you are planning to get married in North Carolina, it is important to understand the process. In this article, we will guide you through all the steps on how to get a marriage license in North Carolina.

What is a Marriage License?

A marriage license is an official document that grants permission for two individuals to legally marry. It serves as a record of your marriage and is required by law in order for your wedding ceremony to be recognized as valid. In North Carolina, marriage licenses are issued by the Register of Deeds office in each county.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in North Carolina

To obtain a marriage license in North Carolina, both parties must meet certain requirements set by state law. These include:

– Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
– If either party is 16 or 17 years old, they can only get married with written consent from their parents or legal guardians.
– The parties cannot be already married or have any existing marriages that have not been legally dissolved.
– The couple cannot be related by blood or adoption closer than first cousins.
– Both parties must be mentally capable of consenting to marriage.
– If either party was previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death certificate of their former spouse.

The Application Process

The process for obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina involves filling out an application and appearing in person at the Register of Deeds office with your future spouse. You can fill out the application online or in-person at the office. The application requires information such as your full legal names, addresses, social security numbers, and date and place of birth.

Once the application is submitted, you and your partner must appear in person at the Register of Deeds office to take an oath and swear that all the information provided is true. At this time, you will also need to pay a fee of $60 in cash or check. If you have completed the online application, you will need to present your confirmation number when appearing in person.

Validity of a Marriage License

A marriage license in North Carolina is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. This means that you must have your wedding ceremony within this time frame. If the marriage does not take place within 60 days, the license will expire and you will need to reapply.

Location of Wedding Ceremony

North Carolina law requires that a marriage ceremony take place within state borders. In addition, if you are getting married by a designated officiant, they must be authorized by the state to perform marriage ceremonies. These include ordained ministers, judges or magistrates of any religious denomination or society, and any federally or state recognized Native American tribe residing within North Carolina.

If you choose to have a civil ceremony without an officiant, you can self-solemnize your marriage by stating your intentions to marry each other and signing the marriage license in front of two witnesses.

Registering Your Marriage

Once your wedding ceremony has taken place and your marriage license is signed by all parties involved and witnessed by two individuals over 18 years old, it must be returned within 10 days to the Register of Deeds office where it was issued. The license will then be recorded and becomes part of public record.

You can request certified copies of your marriage license for a fee of $10 each from the Register of Deeds office if needed for legal purposes.

Getting a marriage license in North Carolina may seem like a daunting task, but by following the steps outlined above, you can make the process smooth and stress-free. It is important to note that all information provided must be true and accurate to ensure that your marriage is valid. With your marriage license in hand, you can now focus on planning your dream wedding and officially tying the knot with your significant other in beautiful North Carolina.

Overview of Getting a Marriage License in North Carolina

Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is an essential step for couples planning to tie the knot in the state. The process may seem daunting at first, but with proper preparation and knowledge, obtaining a marriage license can be a smooth and seamless experience. In this guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information on how to get a marriage license in North Carolina.

Eligibility Requirements for Marriage in North Carolina

Before applying for a marriage license, it is crucial to ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements set by the state of North Carolina. To get married in this state, both parties must be at least 18 years old and not currently married to anyone else. If either party is under 18 years of age, they must obtain written consent from their parent or legal guardian.

Where to Apply for a Marriage License

To apply for a marriage license in North Carolina, you must visit your local Register of Deeds office. This office is usually located at the county courthouse or government center. It is recommended that you apply for your marriage license at least two weeks before your wedding date to allow sufficient time for processing.

Required Documents

When applying for a marriage license in North Carolina, make sure you have all the necessary documents with you. These include valid identification (such as driver’s license or passport) and social security numbers for both parties. If either party has been previously married, they will need to provide legal proof of divorce or death certificate of their former spouse.

Application Process

To begin the application process for a marriage license in North Carolina, both parties must appear together at the Register of Deeds office. The application form will require basic information such as names, addresses, and dates of birth for both parties. You will also need to provide the full names of your parents and their places of birth.

Waiting Period and Expiration

There is a mandatory waiting period of 24 hours after receiving your marriage license before you can get married in North Carolina. This waiting period can be waived if both parties attend a premarital counseling program provided by the state. Once issued, your marriage license will be valid for 60 days, after which it expires.

Marriage Ceremony

After obtaining your marriage license, you are free to have your wedding ceremony anywhere in the state. You are not required to have a ceremony in North Carolina, but if you choose to, make sure it is performed by an ordained minister or an authorized representative of any religious denomination. After the ceremony, both parties and the officiant must sign the marriage license, which then needs to be returned to the Register of Deeds office for recording.

Costs and Fees

The cost of a marriage license in North Carolina varies from county to county but typically ranges from $60-$100. Some counties offer discounts for couples who attend premarital counseling sessions. It is advisable to contact your local Register of Deeds office to confirm the exact cost and payment methods.

Legal Implications

Getting married comes with legal implications that couples should consider before tying the knot. In North Carolina, marriage laws require spouses to support each other financially and have equal rights and responsibilities within the marriage. Additionally, getting married will entitle you and your spouse to certain tax benefits, insurance coverage, social security benefits, inheritance rights, and more.

Changing Your Name After Marriage

If either party decides to change their name after getting married in North Carolina, they can do so by notifying relevant government agencies such as social security administration, department of motor vehicles, and the US Postal Service. You will also need to update your personal documents such as your passport and bank accounts with your new name.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is an important step in starting your life together as a married couple. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the state’s marriage laws and requirements to ensure a smooth and legal process. With this guide, we hope you have all the information you need on how to get a marriage license in North Carolina. Remember, marriage is a lifelong commitment, so make sure you are ready for this exciting journey with your partner.

1. What is the first step to obtain a marriage license in North Carolina?
The first step to get a marriage license in North Carolina is to fill out an application form at your local Register of Deeds office.

2. Can we apply for a marriage license online in North Carolina?
No, you cannot apply for a marriage license online in North Carolina. You must visit your local Register of Deeds office in person.

3. Do we need to show any documents when applying for a marriage license?
Yes, both partners will need to provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, and social security numbers.

4. Is there a waiting period after getting the marriage license?
Yes, there is a 24-hour waiting period between obtaining the marriage license and having the ceremony. This can be waived by a judge if both parties attest that they are not residents of North Carolina.

5. How long is the marriage license valid for in North Carolina?
The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. Your wedding ceremony must take place within this time frame.

6. Can we use our North Carolina marriage license in another state?
No, your North Carolina marriage license is only valid within the state. If you plan to get married in another state, you will need to obtain a marriage license from that state instead.

In conclusion, getting a marriage license in North Carolina may seem like a daunting process, but it is actually quite straightforward. By following the necessary steps and completing all the required documentation, couples can obtain their marriage license and legally tie the knot in this beautiful state.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the legal requirements for obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina. This includes being of legal age (at least 18 years old), not being currently married to someone else, and having proper identification documents.

Next, couples must fill out an application for a marriage license with their local Register of Deeds office. This can usually be done online or in person. It is vital to provide accurate information and pay the necessary fees at this stage.

Once the application is approved, there is a 3-day waiting period before the marriage license can be issued. During this time, couples should use this opportunity to complete any blood tests or counseling sessions that may be required by law.

When the 3-day waiting period is over, couples can pick up their marriage license from the Register of Deeds office. It is important to make sure all information on the license is correct before signing it. The license must then be given to an authorized officiant on the day of the wedding ceremony.

Author Profile

Kelsey Garrison

Kelsey Garrison, our esteemed author and a passionate writer in the world of weddings and bridal fashion, has been an integral part of our website since its inception.

With a rich history in creating engaging content, Kelsey has consistently brought fresh insights and valuable information to our readers.

Starting in 2024, Kelsey made a significant transition to focus specifically on the "Wedding/Bridal Fashion, Wedding Tips" niche. This shift was driven by her desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of wedding planning and bridal fashion—a field that blends timeless elegance with contemporary trends.

Her articles are meticulously researched and designed to provide thorough answers and innovative ideas for all things wedding-related.