The journey of getting married in North Carolina (NC) involves not just celebrating love but also navigating through essential paperwork to ensure that the union is legally recognized. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the vital documents, processes, and tips to make your wedding planning a breeze.
Application for Marriage License
Your first step towards tying the knot in NC is to apply for a marriage license. Here are the details you need to know:
- Eligibility: Both parties must be at least 18 years old or obtain parental consent if between 16-18.
- Residency: There's no residency requirement in NC, so you can apply for a license even if you're not a resident.
- Fee: The fee can vary between counties, typically around $60, payable in cash or by credit/debit card.
- Where to Apply: Visit the Register of Deeds in any county in NC or apply online in some counties.
Documents Required
When you apply for a marriage license, you'll need to bring:
- Valid photo identification (driver's license, passport, etc.)
- Social Security numbers of both applicants (not required for identification, but necessary for issuance)
❗ Note: It's wise to call ahead or check the website of the Register of Deeds to confirm the exact documents needed as they might differ slightly.
Waiting Period and Expiration
Understanding the waiting periods and when your license expires is crucial:
- Waiting Period: There is no waiting period in NC; you can marry immediately after receiving the license.
- Expiration: The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the issue date.
💡 Note: If you don't marry within 60 days, you'll need to reapply for a new license, which means another trip to the Register of Deeds and possibly an additional fee.
The Ceremony
The ceremony itself doesn't require as much paperwork, but here are the essential points:
- Officiant: Must be ordained or authorized by a recognized religious body, or a notary public can officiate.
- Witnesses: Two witnesses are required, but they don't need to provide ID or sign the license.
| Officiant Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Religious Leader | Must be recognized by the IRS as having the authority to marry |
| Notary Public | Can officiate weddings in NC, but they can't marry themselves |
| Officiant Services | Some companies offer officiant services for those not connected with a religious institution |
Returning the License
After your ceremony, the officiant or one of you needs to:
- Sign and return the marriage license to the issuing Register of Deeds within 10 days after the ceremony.
- Keep a copy for your records; it's not uncommon for the county to take some time to process and send the official certificate.
📌 Note: If the license isn't returned on time, the certificate won't be issued, which can cause issues later, like when applying for a name change.
Finalizing Your Marriage
Once your license has been returned:
- Certificate: You will receive your certified marriage certificate, usually by mail within a few weeks.
- Name Change: With your marriage certificate, you can start the process of changing your name if you choose to do so.
Legal marriage in NC not only fulfills a romantic vision but also requires careful attention to legal details. Planning early, understanding the deadlines, and ensuring all paperwork is in order will set the stage for a smooth transition into married life.
What happens if my marriage license expires?
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If your marriage license expires, you’ll need to reapply for a new license, and the process starts over. This includes paying the fee again.
Can I get married in NC if I’m not a resident?
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Yes, there is no residency requirement for obtaining a marriage license in North Carolina, making it convenient for destination weddings or elopements.
Do I need to change my name after marriage in NC?
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Name change is not mandatory, but if you choose to do so, you’ll need your marriage certificate to update your documents like Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, etc.
How do I obtain a certified copy of my marriage license?
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After your marriage license is returned and processed, you can obtain a certified copy from the Register of Deeds where the license was issued. There might be a small fee for this service.
