How to Apply for a Marriage License in North Carolina

The “Tar Heel” state offers many diverse and beautiful places to tie the knot, from the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Applying for a marriage in North Carolina is fairly easy and straightforward, although there are some regulations and requirements to be aware of.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. You can apply for a NC marriage license at any office of the county clerk, often located in the probate court or circuit court in each of the 100 counties of North Carolina.
2. Have the money ready. The cost of a marriage license is $50 and only cash is accepted for payment.
3. If you have been previously married or widowed, you will need the date of the divorce or death.
4. If you have been previously married or widowed, you will need the date of the divorce or death. If you were widowed or divorced in the last 60 days you will need to supply divorce papers or a death certificate.
5. Make sure you satisfy the state’s age requirements. In North Carolina, both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. You may be asked to show a copy of your birth certificate.

Tips & Warnings

• No need for either a blood test or physical exam. They are not required to be married in North Carolina.
• You do not have to be a resident of the state in order to apply for a marriage license in North Carolina. Once you have obtained your marriage license, it is valid all across the state.
• The license is valid for 60 days once issued and there is no waiting period--you are able to get married immediately.
• Parental consent is needed if either party is under 18 years old. You will definitely need your birth certificate in this case. (Original or certified copy) And if either party is under 16, a court order is required to be married.
• If you need paperwork, such as birth or death certificates, you can obtain them from the North Carolina Department of Vital Records, located in downtown Raleigh, NC. You can also order documents online.
• Same sex marriages are not allowed in North Carolina; nor are common law or proxy marriages. First cousins may be married.

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