North Carolina Wedding License

North Carolina Wedding License: Everything You Need to Know

Congratulations! Getting engaged is one of life's most exciting milestones, and planning a wedding in beautiful North Carolina only adds to the magic. Whether you dream of a mountain backdrop, a coastal celebration, or a historic downtown fête, the Old North State offers the perfect setting.

Before you walk down the aisle, however, there's one vital administrative step you need to complete: obtaining your official North Carolina Wedding License. Don't worry; the process here is generally straightforward and stress-free, unlike in some other states.

We've broken down every essential detail, from required documents to deadlines and costs, so you can focus on tasting cake and picking out flowers instead of deciphering confusing legal language.

The Essentials: Where and When to Get Your North Carolina Wedding License

The first things you need to know are the logistical basics. Unlike residency requirements in some states, you do not need to be an NC resident to apply for a marriage license here. That means destination weddings are a breeze!

The license must be obtained from the Register of Deeds office in any of North Carolina's 100 counties. Once issued, it is valid for a ceremony anywhere within the state borders.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a North Carolina Wedding License, both applicants must meet certain criteria. These requirements are standard across the state and ensure the legality of your union.

• Age: Both parties must be 18 years of age or older. Exceptions exist for 16- and 17-year-olds with parental consent, but this involves additional paperwork and court authorization.
• Relationship: Applicants cannot be related to each other. NC law strictly prohibits marriage between double first cousins or closer relatives.
• Capacity: Neither party can be currently married to another person.
• Presence: Both applicants must appear together in person at the Register of Deeds office when applying.

Choosing the Right Register of Deeds Office

While you can get your license in any of the 100 counties—perhaps the one closest to your home or the one where your parents live—it is often easiest to apply in the county where your wedding will take place. This simplifies the process of returning the completed license.

Make sure to check the specific operating hours and appointment policies of your chosen office. Many counties now require appointments, especially since 2020, so don't just show up without calling first.

Required Documentation: What to Bring

Preparation is key to a smooth application process. Having all your necessary documents in hand ensures you won't have to make a dreaded second trip. Gather these items before heading to the Register of Deeds office.

Identification and Proof of Age

You will need reliable proof of identity and age. Remember that all documents must be originals or certified copies; photocopies are usually not accepted.

Here is what you typically need to present:

1. Photo ID: A valid driver's license, military ID, or passport. Your ID cannot be expired.
2. Social Security Number: You must provide your Social Security Number (SSN). You will need to bring your physical card or an official document (like a W-2) that clearly displays the SSN. If you were not issued an SSN, you must sign an affidavit stating that fact.
3. Birth Certificate: Although this requirement sometimes varies by county, it is always safest to bring a certified copy of your birth certificate to definitively prove your age and legal name.

Dealing with Previous Marriages (Divorce/Death)

If either party has been previously married, you must provide specific documentation regarding the dissolution of that marriage. This is non-negotiable for obtaining your North Carolina Wedding License.

If your previous marriage ended in divorce, you must know the exact date the divorce was finalized. If the divorce was finalized very recently (within the last six months), some counties may require a certified copy of the divorce decree itself.

If your previous spouse is deceased, you must provide the date of death. A death certificate is usually not required, but having the exact date is essential for the application form.

Cost and Payment Methods

The state sets the fee for the marriage license. Currently, the fee for a North Carolina Wedding License is $60. This fee is non-refundable, even if you decide not to get married.

Payment methods vary by county. While some offices accept credit or debit cards (often with a small processing fee), most still prefer cash or money orders. Always confirm accepted payment types with the specific county office beforehand.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Once you have all your documents and the fee, the physical application process is simple. In many counties, you can even begin the application online, which saves a significant amount of time during your in-person visit.

Even if you start online, you and your partner must both appear together to sign the completed application and swear to the accuracy of the information provided.

The Waiting Game (Hint: There Isn't One!)

One of the best features of getting married in North Carolina is the lack of a mandatory waiting period. As long as you have all the correct documentation, you can walk into the Register of Deeds office, apply, pay the fee, and walk out with your valid marriage license on the very same day.

This instant issuance is fantastic for elopers or couples who decide to have a spontaneous ceremony.

Using and Expiration of the License

Once the Register of Deeds issues your license, the clock starts ticking. A North Carolina marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. Your wedding ceremony must be performed within that two-month window.

If the 60 days pass and you haven't married, the license automatically expires, and you will have to reapply and pay the $60 fee again.

After the ceremony, your officiant (whether a magistrate or ordained minister) has the responsibility of completing the bottom portion of the license and returning it to the Register of Deeds office in the county where the license was issued within 10 days of the wedding. This step is crucial, as it legally records your marriage.

Conclusion

Securing your North Carolina Wedding License is the final hurdle before your big day, and thankfully, it's a relatively simple one. Just remember the key takeaways: bring your photo ID, SSN, know the dates of any past divorces, and have the $60 fee ready.

There is no waiting period, giving you the flexibility to apply closer to your wedding date. Just ensure your ceremony happens within the 60-day validity window. By tackling this administrative task proactively, you can ensure your transition from fiancé to spouse is smooth and entirely legal. Now go enjoy your North Carolina wedding!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the North Carolina Wedding License

Can I apply for the license online?

Many counties allow you to fill out and submit the initial application information online. However, both parties must still appear in person at the Register of Deeds office to sign the final document and present their required identification before the license can be issued.

Do I need to get a blood test?

No. North Carolina does not require a blood test or any other medical examination to obtain a marriage license.

Who can legally perform a wedding ceremony in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, ceremonies may be performed by any ordained minister of any religious denomination (licensed or recognized by the church), or by a magistrate (a judicial official appointed to perform civil ceremonies).

Do we need witnesses?

Unlike some states, North Carolina law does not require witnesses to sign the marriage license or attend the ceremony.

If my license expires, do I have to pay the full fee again?

Yes. If the 60-day period passes and the ceremony has not taken place, the license is void. You must reapply and pay the $60 fee again to obtain a new North Carolina Wedding License.

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