Unlocking Matrimony: The Essential Guide to Obtaining a Marriage License in NC

Are wedding bells ringing in your near future? Congratulations! Before you exchange vows and say “I do”, there is one important document you need to secure – a marriage license. Whether you are a resident of North Carolina or planning to have your dream wedding in the Tar Heel State, there are specific requirements and steps you need to know in order to obtain a marriage license. In this article, we will guide you through the process of getting married in NC, from eligibility requirements to application procedures. So, put on your best attire and let’s walk down the aisle of marriage license applications together.

Getting married is an exciting and joyful milestone in any couple’s life. However, before saying “I do” and starting your forever together, there are a few legal steps that need to be taken. One of these important steps is obtaining a marriage license. In the state of North Carolina, there are specific requirements and procedures for obtaining a marriage license. In this article, we will discuss all the essential information you need to know about getting a marriage license in NC.

Who Can Apply for a Marriage License?

Before applying for a marriage license in North Carolina, it is important to ensure that you are eligible to apply. Both parties must be at least 18 years old and not currently married to someone else. If either party is between 16-18 years old, they can still obtain a marriage license with parental consent. There are also some additional requirements for minors, such as providing proof of high school enrollment or completion.

Another important factor is the relationship between the parties applying for the marriage license. In North Carolina, first cousins can legally marry as long as they are both over 50 years old or one of them is infertile. Same-sex couples can also apply for a marriage license in NC, as same-sex marriage has been legal since 2014.

Where to Apply?

Marriage licenses in North Carolina are issued by the Register of Deeds office in the county where either party resides or intends to get married. The application process can vary slightly from county to county, so it is best to contact the Register of Deeds office beforehand to confirm their specific requirements and hours of operation.

If both parties reside out of state but intend to get married in North Carolina, they can apply for a marriage license at any Register of Deeds office within the state.

What Do I Need to Bring?

When applying for a marriage license in North Carolina, both parties must appear in person at the Register of Deeds office. They must also bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. Some counties may require additional forms of identification or documentation, so it is best to check with the office beforehand to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

If either party has been previously married, they must also provide proof of divorce or death of their previous spouse. This can be in the form of a divorce decree or death certificate.

When Can We Apply?

In North Carolina, there is no waiting period to apply for a marriage license. However, the license is only valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. This means that couples should plan accordingly and make sure they have their license before their scheduled wedding date.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of a marriage license in North Carolina varies by county but is generally between $60-$100. Some counties may offer a reduced fee for couples who complete premarital counseling through an approved program. It is best to contact the Register of Deeds office in your county to confirm their specific fee and payment methods.

Do We Need Witnesses?

Unlike some other states, North Carolina does not require witnesses to be present during the ceremony or to sign the marriage license. However, it is always nice to have close friends or family members witness your special day and sign as witnesses if you choose.

Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is a straightforward process as long as you meet all the necessary requirements and provide the required documents. Be sure to plan ahead and contact your county’s Register of Deeds office for any additional information or requirements specific to your location. Once you have your marriage license in hand, you are one step closer to beginning your legally recognized journey together as a married couple. Congratulations on this exciting chapter of your lives!

What is a Marriage License in North Carolina?

A marriage license is an essential legal document that grants couples the legal right to get married. In North Carolina, it is a requirement for couples who wish to get married to obtain a marriage license before their wedding day. This document serves as proof of marriage and is necessary for the new couple to receive all of the legal benefits that come with being officially recognized as married.

Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually a simple and straightforward process that every couple must complete before saying “I do.” In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about getting a marriage license in North Carolina, so that you can have peace of mind on your special day.

Who Can Get Married in North Carolina?

Before starting the process of getting your marriage license in North Carolina, it’s important to make sure that you and your partner meet all the qualifications. In North Carolina, both parties must be at least 18 years old and cannot already be legally married. If either party has been previously married, they must provide documentation showing divorce was finalized or their spouse has passed away.

Additionally, there are no restrictions based on gender or religious affiliation when it comes to getting married in North Carolina. Same-sex marriages are recognized and treated the same way as traditional marriages. As long as both parties meet the requirements set by state law, they are eligible to obtain a marriage license.

Where Can You Get Your Marriage License?

In North Carolina, couples can obtain their marriage license from any Register of Deeds office located within the state. Most counties have multiple offices, making it convenient for couples to choose the location closest to them. Some counties also offer online applications for couples who are unable to visit an office in person due to extenuating circumstances.

No matter which office you choose, both parties must be present to apply for a marriage license. This means that you and your partner will need to schedule a time to visit the Register of Deeds office together and bring the necessary documents with you.

What Documents Do You Need?

When applying for a marriage license in North Carolina, couples must provide valid photo identification such as a driver’s license, military ID, or passport. In addition, they must also have their social security number on hand or bring their social security card with them to the Register of Deeds office.

If either party has been previously married, they must also provide documentation showing their divorce decree or death certificate of their previous spouse. The Register of Deeds office may also require additional documentation depending on each couple’s unique circumstances.

How Long Does it Take to Get Your Marriage License?

The process of obtaining your marriage license typically takes 20-30 minutes from start to finish. This includes filling out the application, verifying documents, and completing any necessary paperwork. However, wait times at each county vary and can be affected by the number of people applying for licenses at once.

It’s recommended that couples plan ahead and give themselves plenty of time before their wedding day to obtain their marriage license. Most counties in North Carolina do not require an appointment to apply for a license but it’s always best to check with your specific county’s guidelines beforehand. In some cases, there may be a waiting period before receiving your marriage license, so it’s best not to wait until the last minute.

How Much Does it Cost?

The cost for obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina varies by county but generally ranges between $60-$80. Some counties may offer discounted rates if couples complete premarital counseling or if they have been residents of the county for a certain amount of time.

It’s important to note that all fees must be paid in cash, so make sure to have the right amount on hand when visiting the Register of Deeds office.

When Does Your Marriage License Expire?

In North Carolina, marriage licenses are valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. This means that you and your partner must get married within 60 days of receiving your license or you will have to apply for a new one.

It’s also important to note that your marriage license is only valid in the county where it was issued. If you decide to have your ceremony in a different county, you will need to obtain a new marriage license from that specific county’s Register of Deeds office.

Obtaining a marriage license is an essential step in getting married in North Carolina. It’s important for couples to understand the requirements and process for obtaining their license before their wedding day. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that you and your partner are fully prepared and ready to start your married life together. Congratulations and best wishes on your special day!

1) What documents do I need to bring to the courthouse to apply for a marriage license in NC?
– In North Carolina, you will need to provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. You will also need to bring your social security number and any previous marriage certificates if you have been married before.

2) Do both partners need to be present when applying for a marriage license in NC?
– Yes, both parties must appear in person at the courthouse when applying for a marriage license in North Carolina. If one partner cannot be present, they can fill out the Affidavit of Absent Applicant form and have it notarized before submitting it along with their partner’s application.

3) Is there a waiting period after obtaining a marriage license in NC?
– There is no waiting period after receiving your marriage license in North Carolina. However, the license is only valid for 60 days, so make sure your wedding date falls within that timeframe.

4) Can non-US citizens get married in NC?
– Yes, non-US citizens can get married in North Carolina as long as both parties meet all eligibility requirements and provide proper documentation, such as passports or visas. However, please note that some counties may require additional paperwork for non-citizens, so it’s best to check with your local courthouse beforehand.

5) How much does it cost to obtain a marriage license in NC?
– The cost of a marriage license varies by county but typically ranges from $60-$100. Some counties also offer discounts for couples who complete premarital counseling or choose to get married on certain days.

6) Can we use our NC marriage license to get married in another state?
– No, generally speaking, your North Carolina marriage license is only valid for weddings taking place within the state’s borders. If you plan to get married in a different state, you will need to obtain a marriage license from that state instead.

In summary, obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina requires several key steps and requirements. Couples must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, including age, legal status, and blood test results. It is important to carefully research and understand the specific requirements for the county in which they plan to marry. The process also involves filling out an application, paying a fee, and waiting a designated waiting period. Additionally, couples may need to provide additional documentation such as proof of divorce or parental consent.

It is crucial for couples to start the process of obtaining a marriage license well in advance of their wedding date to avoid any last-minute complications. It is also recommended to seek assistance from the county registrar’s office or seek guidance from a qualified attorney if there are any doubts or confusion regarding the process.

Moreover, it is essential to note that while getting a marriage license may seem like a bureaucratic task, it holds significant meaning as it legally binds two individuals together. This union comes with rights and responsibilities that must be taken seriously by both parties.

Lastly, the process of obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina serves as a reminder of the significance and sacredness of marriage. It highlights the importance of having legal recognition for relationships and upholding state laws while also celebrating love and commitment.

In conclusion, understanding the

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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.