How to Get Married in North Carolina

As one of the 13 original colonies, North Carolina is steeped in tradition and has the utmost respect for the institutions of this country, including marriage. Fittingly, this South Atlantic state is a gorgeous place to tie the knot. Here’s how to get married in North Carolina.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Marriage license
• Identification

1. Choose a date to get married. Depending on the locale and the season, you can have a wildly different wedding. A summer wedding on the coast is going to be a completely different experience than a fall wedding in the Blue Ridge Mountains (see Resources below).
2. Get a marriage license. To get one in North Carolina, visit the Register of Deeds office. You’ll need to bring the registration fee ($50) and photo identification including your driver’s license and a certified copy of your birth certificate (see Resources below).
3. Plan the ceremony. Do you need a pastor or public official to perform it? What are the colors going to be? Will there be a reception after and, if so, what kind?
4. Secure a venue. Whether you’re using a church, a park or somebody’s backyard, make sure you reserve the date well in advance and certainly before you print it on invitations.
5. Make a guest list and send invitations with an RSVP required. The more people you invite to your wedding, the more expensive it will be.

Tips & Warnings

• A marriage license is valid for only 60 days after the day after it’s issued in the state of North Carolina.
• You can get a certified copy of your marriage license for an additional $10.
• If you are over 16 and under 18, you will need a parent or guardian’s consent to secure a marriage license.
• To be granted a marriage license in North Carolina, the couple must include one person who was born male and another who was born female, and the two must not be related by blood.

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