Step-by-Step Guide: How to Obtain Your Marriage License in North Carolina
Learn how to get a marriage license in NC with our easy-to-follow guide. Find out what documents you need and where to go to apply.
Getting married is a significant milestone in anyone's life, and it all starts with obtaining a marriage license. For couples planning to tie the knot in North Carolina, the process can seem daunting. However, it doesn't have to be. With a little bit of preparation and research, you can obtain your marriage license without any hassle. In this article, we will guide you through the process of getting a marriage license in NC, step-by-step.
Firstly, it's important to note that both parties must be present to apply for a marriage license. The application can be completed either in person or online, but the couple must appear together at the Register of Deeds office to complete the process. Next, bring along a valid form of identification such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID. This will be used to verify your identity and age.
Before arriving at the Register of Deeds office, make sure you have all the necessary documents. These include the application form, which you can download from the NC Vital Records website, and a list of the social security numbers for both parties. It's also essential to have the correct fees; currently, the cost of a marriage license in NC is $60.
Once at the Register of Deeds office, you will need to provide the necessary information to complete the application form. This includes your full name, address, phone number, and date of birth. You will also need to provide information about your parents, such as their full names, birthplaces, and current addresses.
After completing the application, the Register of Deeds office will require a waiting period of three days before issuing the license. During this time, they will perform a background check to ensure that there are no legal impediments to the marriage. Once the waiting period is over, you can return to the office to receive your marriage license.
It's important to note that the license is only valid for 60 days from the date of issue. This means that you must get married within 60 days of obtaining the license; otherwise, it will expire, and you will need to apply for a new one. Additionally, if you plan to get married in a different county than where you obtained your license, you will need to ensure that the officiant is authorized to perform marriages in that county.
After your wedding ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license, and you will need to return it to the Register of Deeds office within ten days. Failure to do so may result in legal complications, so be sure to prioritize this step.
In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in NC is a relatively straightforward process as long as you come prepared. Remember to bring all necessary documents, identification, and fees, and be aware of the waiting period and expiration date of the license. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to saying I do in no time.
Introduction
Getting married is a significant milestone in anyone's life. But before you can say I do, you'll need to obtain a marriage license. In North Carolina, the process of getting a marriage license is relatively straightforward. This article will guide you through the steps required to obtain a marriage license in NC.
Requirements for Getting a Marriage License
Before you can apply for a marriage license in North Carolina, there are some requirements you must meet. These requirements include:
- You and your partner must be at least 18 years old
- You and your partner must not be related by blood
- You and your partner must not be currently married to someone else
- You and your partner must both be present when applying for the license
- You and your partner must provide valid identification (such as a driver's license or passport)
Where to Apply for a Marriage License
In North Carolina, you can apply for a marriage license at any Register of Deeds office. You can find a list of Register of Deeds offices on the North Carolina Vital Records website. You should apply for your marriage license at least a few days before your wedding date to ensure that you have enough time to receive it.
Completing the Application
When you arrive at the Register of Deeds office, you will need to complete a marriage license application. The application will ask for basic information about you and your partner, such as your full names, dates of birth, and places of birth. You will also need to provide your social security numbers.
Applying for a Marriage License During COVID-19
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Register of Deeds offices in North Carolina are operating under modified hours or require appointments for marriage license applications. Check with your local office to confirm their current procedures.
Paying the Fee
There is a fee for obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina. The fee varies depending on the county where you apply for the license. You can find information about the fee on the North Carolina Vital Records website. Most Register of Deeds offices accept cash, checks, and credit cards.
Receiving Your Marriage License
After you have completed the application and paid the fee, you will receive your marriage license. The license will be valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. Make sure to check the information on the license for accuracy before leaving the Register of Deeds office.
Getting Married
Once you have obtained your marriage license, you are free to get married anywhere in North Carolina. You must have at least two witnesses present at your wedding ceremony. After the ceremony, your officiant will fill out and sign the marriage license. You and your witnesses will also need to sign the license.
Returning Your Marriage License
After you and your witnesses have signed the marriage license, you will need to return it to the Register of Deeds office where you obtained it. You can do this in person or by mail. You should return the license as soon as possible after your wedding ceremony to ensure that it is recorded correctly.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is a relatively straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you have everything you need to get married in the state. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
If you're planning to get married in North Carolina, you'll need to obtain a marriage license first. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get a marriage license in NC:Step 1: Know the Requirements
Before applying for a marriage license in North Carolina, make sure you meet the basic requirements. These include being at least 18 years old or having parental consent if you're younger, being unmarried, and not closely related to your intended spouse. If you don't meet these requirements, you won't be able to obtain a marriage license.Step 2: Find Your County's Clerk of Court
Marriage licenses in North Carolina are issued by the Clerk of Court in the county where the marriage ceremony will take place. Locate the office in advance so you can submit your application without issues. You can typically find the Clerk of Court office in your county's courthouse or online.Step 3: Complete the Application
Pick up or download the marriage license application form (Form No. 4-A) from the Clerk of Court, and fill it out with the requisite information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and your intended spouse's information. Make sure you provide accurate information to avoid any delays or issues.Step 4: Gather the Supporting Documents
Bring the necessary supporting documents, which vary from county to county in North Carolina. Common documents include a valid government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and your Social Security card. Check with your Clerk of Court office to see what other documents you may need to bring.Step 5: Pay the Fee
Every county in North Carolina charges a fee for a marriage license, which ranges from $60 to $100. You can pay this fee in cash, check, or money order at the Clerk of Court's office. Make sure you have the correct amount of money before you go.Step 6: Wait for the Waiting Period
In North Carolina, a marriage license has a waiting period of three full days, meaning you can't use it until three days after it's been issued. This waiting period can be waived for non-residents of North Carolina. Plan accordingly so that you can get your license in advance of your wedding date.Step 7: Picking Up Your License
After the waiting period has passed, you can pick up your marriage license from the Clerk of Court's office. Remember to bring your ID with you. Double-check that all the information on the license is correct before leaving the office.Step 8: Get Married
Once you have your marriage license, you can use it to get married in the state of North Carolina. You must perform the marriage ceremony within 60 days of the license being issued. Make sure you follow the state's laws and regulations regarding marriage ceremonies.Step 9: Change Your Name
If you choose to change your name after marriage, you can use your marriage license to do that. You'll need to get a new Social Security card, driver's license, and other legal documents to reflect your new name. Follow the necessary steps to update your name on all relevant documents.Step 10: Record the Marriage
After the wedding ceremony, the person who performed the ceremony will give you a marriage certificate. Return this to the Clerk of Court's office where you obtained your marriage license, so that it can be recorded in the state's vital records. This step is important to ensure that your marriage is legal and recognized by the state.In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina requires following a few simple steps and meeting certain requirements. By following this guide, you can ensure that your marriage is legal and recognized by the state.How to Get a Marriage License in NC: A Guide
Introduction
Getting married is an exciting and joyous occasion, but first, you need to obtain a marriage license. The process of getting a marriage license in North Carolina is straightforward and easy to follow. This article will guide you through the process and provide you with some pros and cons of obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina.The Process of Getting a Marriage License in NC
Here are the steps to follow when obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina:
- Get your documents ready: You and your partner need to be present at the Register of Deeds office in the county where you plan to get married. Bring a valid form of identification such as a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. You will also need to provide your social security number.
- Fill out the application: You will fill out an application for a marriage license, providing basic information about yourself and your partner, such as your full names, ages, and places of birth. You will also need to provide information about your parents' names, places of birth, and occupations.
- Pay the fee: The fee for a marriage license in North Carolina is $60. Some counties may charge an additional fee for certified copies of the license.
- Wait for the waiting period to end: In North Carolina, there is a waiting period of 24 hours between when you obtain your marriage license and when you can get married. The waiting period allows time for any objections to be raised against the marriage.
- Pick up your license: After the waiting period has ended, you can pick up your marriage license at the Register of Deeds office. The license is valid for 60 days from the date it was issued.
- Get married: You can now get married anywhere in North Carolina within the 60-day validity period of your marriage license.
The Pros of Getting a Marriage License in NC
Here are some benefits of obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina:
- Legal recognition: A marriage license provides legal recognition of your marriage and ensures that your marriage is recognized by the state of North Carolina.
- Access to benefits: Being married may entitle you and your partner to certain benefits such as health insurance, social security benefits, and inheritance rights.
- Celebrate your love: Getting married is a beautiful way to celebrate your love and commitment to each other.
The Cons of Getting a Marriage License in NC
Here are some potential drawbacks of obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina:
- Cost: The fee for a marriage license in North Carolina is $60, which may be a financial burden for some couples.
- Waiting period: The waiting period of 24 hours between obtaining the marriage license and getting married may be inconvenient for some couples who want to get married immediately.
- Objections: The waiting period allows time for any objections to be raised against the marriage, which could potentially delay or prevent the wedding from taking place.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina is a straightforward process that provides legal recognition of your marriage. While there are some potential drawbacks, the benefits of getting married far outweigh them. So, if you're planning to tie the knot in North Carolina, follow these simple steps and get ready to say I do!Closing Message: How To Get A Marriage License In NC
Congratulations on taking the first steps towards your lifelong journey of love and commitment! We hope that this guide has provided you with all the necessary information on how to obtain a marriage license in North Carolina. Remember, getting a marriage license is a crucial step in your wedding planning process. Without it, your marriage will not be legally recognized, which could lead to legal and financial issues down the road. We recommend that you start the process of obtaining a marriage license at least a month before your wedding date. This will give you ample time to gather all the required documents and avoid any last-minute stress. Don't forget to bring your government-issued ID, social security number, and payment for the marriage license fee. It's also important to note that North Carolina requires a blood test for couples who plan to get married. If you're planning to have a destination wedding or live out of state, you can still obtain a marriage license in North Carolina. However, you must apply in the county where the wedding ceremony will take place. Once you've obtained your marriage license, make sure to keep it in a safe place and bring it with you on your wedding day. Your officiant will need to sign it after the ceremony and return it to the county courthouse for it to be officially recorded. We understand that the process of obtaining a marriage license can seem overwhelming, but it's a necessary step in legalizing your union. Don't hesitate to reach out to your local county courthouse if you have any questions or concerns. We wish you all the best as you embark on this exciting new chapter in your life together. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Congratulations again!How to Get a Marriage License in NC: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Marriage License?
A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes a couple to get married. It is issued by the county register of deeds office in North Carolina.
Who Can Get a Marriage License in NC?
Any couple who is 18 years or older, and is not currently married, can get a marriage license in NC. If one or both parties are under 18, they must have parental consent and meet other requirements set by the state.
Where Can I Apply for a Marriage License in NC?
You can apply for a marriage license at any county register of deeds office in North Carolina. The couple must appear in person to apply for the license.
What Documents Do I Need to Bring When Applying for a Marriage License?
When applying for a marriage license, you will need to bring:
- Valid photo ID (such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID) for both parties
- Social security number for both parties
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement)
- Payment for the marriage license fee (varies by county)
Is There a Waiting Period Before I Can Get Married After Obtaining a Marriage License?
Yes, there is a three-day waiting period after obtaining a marriage license before the couple can get married. However, the waiting period can be waived if the couple completes a premarital education course.
How Long is a Marriage License Valid in NC?
A marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If the couple does not get married within that time frame, they will need to apply for a new license.
Can I Use a NC Marriage License to Get Married in Another State?
No, a North Carolina marriage license can only be used to get married within the state of North Carolina.
What is the Cost of a Marriage License in NC?
The cost of a marriage license varies by county in North Carolina, but it is typically around $60.