Unlocking Love: The Ultimate Guide to Getting a Marriage License in NC

Weddings are filled with joy, love, and excitement, but there are also many important legal aspects that come along with saying “I do.” One of the first steps in getting married is obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning to tie the knot in North Carolina, you may be wondering where exactly you need to go to get this vital document. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about getting a marriage license in NC, including where to go and what you’ll need. So whether you’re a North Carolinian ready to say “I do,” or simply curious about the process, keep reading to find out more.

Overview of Marriage Licenses in North Carolina

Before tying the knot in North Carolina, couples must obtain a marriage license. This legal document serves as proof of marriage and allows couples to legally enter into a marital contract. Obtaining a marriage license involves completing an application and submitting it to the appropriate county register of deeds office. Couples planning to get married in North Carolina should be aware of the marriage license requirements, application process, and other important details.

Marriage License Requirements in North Carolina

To obtain a marriage license in North Carolina, both individuals must meet certain requirements set by state law. First and foremost, both parties must be at least 18 years old. However, if one or both parties are under 18 years old but over 16 years old, they may still get married with parental consent. Both parties also need to present a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or passport.

Additionally, individuals who have previously been married need to provide proof of divorce or annulment before applying for a new marriage license. In cases where a previous spouse has passed away, the death certificate must be presented. It is also important to note that same-sex marriages are legal in North Carolina and follow the same requirements as traditional marriages.

The Application Process for Marriage Licenses

The first step to obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is to fill out an application. The application can be found at any county register of deeds office or can be completed online through the state’s official website. Both parties must provide personal information such as their full names, birth dates, addresses, and social security numbers. It is essential that all information is accurate and spelled correctly to avoid any delays in the application process.

Once the application is complete, both parties must appear together at the register of deeds office with their valid forms of identification. During this visit, they will be required to sign the application and take an oath confirming that all information provided is true and accurate. The marriage license fee, which varies by county, must also be paid at this time.

Important Details about Marriage Licenses

After the application has been submitted and approved, a 24-hour waiting period begins before the marriage license can be issued. However, if both parties have completed a premarital education course that has been approved by the state, this waiting period can be waived. The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued.

It is important to note that North Carolina has some restrictions on who can officiate a marriage ceremony. Only ordained ministers of any faith, justices of the peace, and magistrates are authorized to perform marriage ceremonies in the state. Couples planning to have a friend or family member officiate their ceremony must complete a one-time designation form prior to the wedding day.

Where to Get a Marriage License in North Carolina

Marriage licenses can be obtained from any county register of deeds office in North Carolina. Couples do not have to apply for a license in the county where they reside; however, it must be used within the state’s borders. Many counties offer online applications for convenience, but couples must still appear in person at the office to complete the process.

Some counties may have additional requirements or fees for marriage licenses, so it is essential to check with the specific county’s register of deeds office before beginning the application process. A list of all register of deeds offices in North Carolina can be found on the state’s official website.

Getting married in North Carolina requires obtaining a marriage license from your local register of deeds office. Both parties must meet certain requirements and complete an application process that includes appearing together with valid forms of identification. With all the necessary information and documents, obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is a straightforward and efficient process.

What is a Marriage License in NC?

A marriage license is a document issued by the state of North Carolina that enables two people to legally marry. This license serves as proof that a couple has met all the legal requirements to enter into a marriage. It is an essential step in the process of getting married and must be obtained before the actual wedding ceremony takes place.

In North Carolina, a marriage license is issued by the county Register of Deeds office. The requirements and procedures for obtaining a marriage license may vary slightly from county to county, but the basic process remains the same. Both parties must appear in person at the Register of Deeds office and provide certain documentation to obtain a marriage license.

Who Can Obtain a Marriage License in NC?

To be eligible for a marriage license in North Carolina, both parties must meet certain criteria. First, both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, then they must have written consent from their parent or guardian.

Additionally, both individuals must be legally able to marry; this means neither party can currently be married or in a domestic partnership with someone else. They also cannot be closely related by blood or adoption.

Where Can You Obtain a Marriage License in NC?

Marriage licenses can only be obtained at the Register of Deeds office in any North Carolina county. One or both parties must physically go to the office during regular business hours to apply for a marriage license. It is important to note that some counties require appointments for obtaining a marriage license, so it is best to check with your local Register of Deeds beforehand.

If both parties reside in different counties within North Carolina, then they may obtain their marriage license from either county’s Register of Deeds office.

Required Documentation for Obtaining a Marriage License

To obtain a marriage license in North Carolina, both parties must provide the following documentation:

– A valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
– Social Security number (note: if either party is not a U.S. citizen, they can provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead).
– If either party was previously married and divorced, they must provide the date and location of the divorce.
– If either party was previously married and widowed, they must provide the date and location of their spouse’s death.

Fees for Obtaining a Marriage License in NC

There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina. The fee varies by county but typically ranges from $60 to $100. This fee must be paid at the time of application and can usually be paid by cash, check, or credit/debit card.

If either party is unable to afford the cost of obtaining a marriage license, they may request a waiver of fees from the court.

What is the Waiting Period for a Marriage License in NC?

Once both parties have submitted their application and provided all required documentation, there is a mandatory waiting period before receiving the marriage license. In North Carolina, this waiting period is three days. However, some counties may waive this waiting period for special circumstances.

The three-day waiting period begins on the day that both parties apply for the license. This means that if you apply on Friday, you will not receive your marriage license until Tuesday.

How Long is a Marriage License Valid in NC?

Once issued, your marriage license is valid for 60 days in North Carolina. This means that you must have your wedding ceremony within 60 days of receiving your marriage license; otherwise, it will expire. After that time frame has passed, you will need to reapply for a new marriage license.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license is an essential step in the process of getting married in North Carolina. It serves as proof that both parties have met all the legal requirements to enter into a marriage. The process of obtaining a marriage license may seem daunting, but it is relatively straightforward and can be completed within a few days. Couples should make sure they have all the necessary documentation before applying for a marriage license and plan accordingly for the mandatory waiting period. With proper preparation and planning, obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina will be a smooth and stress-free process.

1. Where can I obtain a marriage license in North Carolina?
You can get a marriage license at any Register of Deeds office located in the county where you and your partner plan to get married.

2. Is there a waiting period to obtain a marriage license in NC?
Yes, there is a mandatory 3-day waiting period after you apply for a marriage license before it can be issued.

3. What documents do I need to bring when applying for a marriage license in North Carolina?
You will need to bring valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, your social security number, and any relevant divorce or death certificates if applicable.

4. Can I apply for a marriage license in NC if I am under 18 years old?
Yes, but you must have written parental consent and court approval before obtaining the license.

5. How much does it cost to get a marriage license in North Carolina?
The fee for obtaining a marriage license varies by county but typically ranges from $60-$100.

6. Does my partner and I have to apply for the marriage license together?
Yes, both partners must be present when applying for the marriage license. If one partner cannot be present, they can fill out an absentee affidavit form and have it notarized before the application is submitted.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is a simple yet important process for couples looking to legally marry. The first step is to check the county requirements for obtaining a license, such as age restrictions and waiting periods. Next, both parties must appear in person with proper identification to apply for the license. It is also important to bring any necessary documents, such as divorce decrees or death certificates, and pay the required fee.

Furthermore, it is crucial to understand that the marriage license is only valid for a limited amount of time and must be used within that timeframe. In North Carolina, the license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. After the ceremony, the officiant must return the signed and completed license to the Register of Deeds office within ten days.

Additionally, it is essential to note that applying for a marriage license does not automatically mean you are married. A ceremony must still take place with an authorized officiant to make the marriage official. It is also important to keep a copy of your marriage license for legal purposes and name changes.

Lastly, every couple deserves a safe and happy wedding experience without any roadblocks or obstacles. It is advisable to start the process of obtaining a marriage license well in advance of the wedding date to avoid any

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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.