Say ‘I Do’ in the Tar Heel State: Where to Get a Marriage License in NC

AvatarByKelsey Garrison Marriage

Congratulations, you’ve found your perfect match and are ready to take the next step towards eternal love: getting married. While planning a wedding can be exciting, there is one important task that must be completed before tying the knot – obtaining a marriage license. For those residing in North Carolina, the process of getting a marriage license may seem daunting, but fear not! This article will guide you through everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in the Tar Heel state. From requirements and fees to locations and application procedures, we’ll cover it all so you can start your happily ever after with ease. So, let’s dive into the essential question: Where to get a marriage license in NC?

Planning for your wedding day requires careful consideration and attention to detail. One of the most important steps in the process is obtaining your marriage license. In North Carolina, this document serves as legal proof of your marriage, and must be obtained before you can officially tie the knot. If you’re wondering where to get your marriage license in NC, read on for all the details you need to know.

Understanding Marriage Laws in North Carolina

Before obtaining your marriage license in NC, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the state’s marriage laws. In North Carolina, both parties must be at least 18 years old and not already married or closely related by blood or adoption. Additionally, same-sex marriages are legal in North Carolina and all couples are required to obtain a marriage license regardless of gender.

Required Documents

When applying for a marriage license in NC, both parties must present a valid form of government-issued identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID. If either party has been previously married, they must also provide documentation of their divorce or death of their previous spouse.

Application Process

To obtain a marriage license in NC, both parties must appear together at the Register of Deeds office in any county within the state. The application fee varies by county but typically ranges from $60 to $100. It’s recommended to contact the office beforehand to inquire about payment methods and any additional required documents.

The application process involves filling out a form with basic information about each party such as full names, dates of birth, and place of residence. You will also need to provide your parent’s full names including mother’s maiden name. Once completed and signed by both parties, the application will be reviewed by a clerk at the office.

Waiting Period & Expiration

After submitting your marriage license application, there is a required 24-hour waiting period before it can be issued. This waiting period can be waived if you complete a premarital preparation course from a qualified instructor. The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued, after which it will expire and you will need to reapply.

Locations to Obtain Your Marriage License in North Carolina

In North Carolina, marriage licenses can be obtained at any county Register of Deeds office. Some counties may also have satellite offices or offer online applications for added convenience.

Mecklenburg County

Located in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County offers an online application for marriage licenses. The fee for a marriage license is $60 and the office also offers extended hours on select days.

Wake County

Wake County’s Register of Deeds office in Raleigh requires both parties to appear in person to apply for a marriage license. The fee is $60 and the office also offers appointments on select Saturdays for an additional fee.

Gaston County

Gaston County’s Register of Deeds office in Gastonia also requires both parties to apply in person. The fee is $60 and appointments are available on select Saturdays as well.

Tips for Obtaining Your Marriage License Effortlessly

To make obtaining your marriage license as smooth as possible, here are some helpful tips:

  • Check the requirements and fees of your county beforehand.
  • Gather all necessary documents before visiting the office.
  • Consider completing a premarital preparation course to waive the waiting period.
  • Schedule an appointment if available to avoid long wait times.
  • Double check all information on the application form before submitting.
  • If applying close to the expiration date, consider applying in another county to ensure it will not expire before your wedding date.
  • Get a certified copy of your marriage license for legal purposes after the wedding.

Obtaining your marriage license in North Carolina is an important step in the wedding planning process. By familiarizing yourself with the state’s marriage laws and understanding the required documents and application process, you can easily obtain your license without any complications. Remember to apply for your license in advance of your wedding day and follow the tips provided to make the process as effortless as possible. So, get ready to say “I do” and start your new life together in beautiful North Carolina!

What is a Marriage License in North Carolina?

A marriage license is a legal document issued by the state of North Carolina that authorizes two individuals to get married. It serves as proof that both parties have met all the state’s legal requirements to enter into a marriage contract. Without a marriage license, any ceremony or union between two individuals will not be legally recognized.

North Carolina has specific laws and regulations regarding marriage licenses, and it’s crucial for couples to understand them before tying the knot. Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina involves meeting certain criteria, completing an application process, and paying a fee. Let’s take an in-depth look at these requirements.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License in North Carolina

To get a marriage license in North Carolina, both parties must be at least 18 years old and have no closer blood relationship than second cousins. Minors between the ages of 16-18 can also obtain a marriage license with parental consent. If one or both parties have been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or annulment.

Couples must also present valid photo identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) and their social security numbers at the time of application. If either party does not have a social security number, they must sign an affidavit stating so.

Waiting Period

There is no waiting period to obtain a marriage license in North Carolina. However, once issued, it is only valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. Couples should plan their wedding ceremony accordingly within this timeframe.

Residency Requirement

There is no residency requirement for obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina. You do not have to be a resident of the state to apply or get married here.

Application Process

Both parties must apply for their marriage license together in person at the Register of Deeds office in any of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Some counties may also allow for online applications, but both parties must still physically appear at the office to complete the process.

During the application process, each party will be required to fill out a form with their personal information, including full names, ages, addresses, and parents’ names. This form also includes a section where couples must affirm that they meet all legal requirements for marriage in North Carolina.

Fees

Applicants must pay a fee of $60 during the application process. This fee can be paid by cash, credit/debit card, or money order. It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable even if the marriage license is not issued.

Where Can You Get a Marriage License in North Carolina?

Marriage licenses are issued by the Register of Deeds office in each county in North Carolina. It’s essential to note that the license issued is only valid within that specific county and not throughout the state.

To determine which county’s Register of Deeds office you need to visit, consider where you will be getting married. The license must be obtained from the county where the wedding ceremony will take place.

What You Need to Know Before Getting Your Marriage License

Before obtaining your marriage license in North Carolina, here are a few key things you should keep in mind:

– Both parties must be present during the application process
– Plan ahead and make sure you have all necessary documents and fees ready
– The marriage license is only valid for 60 days from the date of issuance
– Make sure you apply in the correct county where your wedding ceremony will take place

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina may seem like a daunting task, but understanding the requirements and following the application process is essential. Once you have your marriage license, you’re one step closer to the wedding of your dreams. Remember to plan ahead and have all necessary documents ready to make the process smooth and stress-free. Congratulations and best wishes on your upcoming marriage!

1. Where can I obtain a marriage license in North Carolina?
To obtain a marriage license in North Carolina, you can visit any county Register of Deeds office. The county where the marriage will take place is where you should apply for the license.

2. What documents do I need to bring when applying for a marriage license in North Carolina?
You and your partner will need to bring an official government-issued identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate. You will also need to provide your Social Security Numbers and date of birth.

3. Is there a waiting period after obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina?
No, there is no waiting period after obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina. The license is effective immediately and valid for 60 days from the date of issue.

4. Can I apply for a marriage license online in North Carolina?
No, you cannot apply for a marriage license online in North Carolina. Both parties must appear together in person at the Register of Deeds office to complete the application process.

5. Is there a fee to obtain a marriage license in North Carolina?
Yes, there is a fee to obtain a marriage license in North Carolina which varies by county. Payment can typically be made by cash or check.

6. Do I need to bring witnesses when obtaining my marriage license in North Carolina?
No, witnesses are not required when obtaining your marriage license in North Carolina. However, two witnesses over the age of 18 must be present at your wedding ceremony to sign the official document.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is a straightforward process that requires following the necessary steps and fulfilling the required criteria. As discussed, couples can acquire their marriage license from any register of deeds office in the state or through an online application. It is essential to note that both parties must be present and provide valid identification at the time of application. Additionally, couples should be aware of the waiting period and expiration of the license, as well as any premarital requirements such as blood tests or marriage counseling.

Moreover, understanding the legalities and logistics of obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is crucial for a successful wedding ceremony. This includes having an officiant who is authorized by law to perform marriages in the state, filing for a marriage certificate after the ceremony, and changing names or surnames if desired.

It is also important to remember that while acquiring a marriage license may seem like a bureaucratic process, it serves as a legal document that solidifies the union between two individuals. Therefore, it should not be taken lightly and should be obtained with careful consideration and preparation.

Overall, knowing where to get a marriage license in North Carolina is the first step towards building a happy and lasting union. By following the guidelines outlined above and adhering to state laws, couples can

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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.