I've had a few interesting questions concerning a NC marriage license. First of all, you must have a license
to legally marry in North Carolina and I do not issue the license.
Here are some things you need to know:
You do not have to be a resident of North Carolina to apply for a marriage license.
The license is valid for 60 days.
There is no waiting period; the license is issued immediately.
Blood tests are not required.
Where to apply and requirements for a NC Marriage License
The Bride and Groom must apply together at the Register of Deeds office in any county in North Carolina. Most offices are open 8:30 - 4:30 Monday - Friday. A social security card is required. Some offices accept other proof of social security number (tax return, pay stub, etc ...). Check with the individual office for specifics. A picture ID is required. The license is $60 cash (some offices only accept cash) and you both will sign the license at the time you obtain it.
If you are under 21 years old, you will need your birth certificate.
Divorced applicants must provide the month and year of their divorce. If there has been a divorce within the last 60 days, the state requires a copy of the divorce decree signed by the judge. I have found that some counties always require written proof of divorce, regardless of how long it has been since the divorce. Contact the Register of Deeds office in the county you plan on getting your license to verify their requirements.
Certified copies:
Immediately following your ceremony, the officiant and two witnesses must sign your marriage license. It is the officiant’s responsibility to return the completed license (within 10 days) to the Register of Deeds office where it was issued.
You will not automatically get a certified copy. If possible, pre-order your certified copies when you apply for your license. Some offices will not allow you to pre-order. In this case, you will receive a request form to mail after the wedding. The certified copies should arrive in 10 – 14 days after the request is made. Once you receive the certified copy, the bride should contact the Social Security Administration about applying for a new card. (You may need to make an appointment so it’s best to call ahead.) You will also need your certified copies before health insurance, banking or other financial accounts can be changed.
