Getting married is an exciting time, and securing your marriage license in North Carolina is a key step in making your big day official. If you’ve already searched online for information about the marriage license process, you may still be slightly confused about what steps to take first. Well, rest assured that you’ve come to the right place! From figuring out which documents you need to understanding the application process, we’ve got you covered. This article will walk you through everything you need to know so you can get back to focusing on the fun stuff—like your wedding day!
When do you need to get your marriage license in North Carolina?
North Carolina requires you to get your marriage license before your wedding day. It’s a good idea to apply for your marriage license about 1 to 2 months before your wedding date. This gives you plenty of time to handle the paperwork and deal with any potential issues that might arise. Marriage licenses in North Carolina are valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. So, make sure you apply within this window so that your license is valid on your wedding day.
What do you need to get a marriage license in North Carolina?
Getting a marriage license in North Carolina is pretty straightforward. You don’t have to be a North Carolina resident to get married in the state. You can obtain the license from any county in North Carolina and get married anywhere in the state. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Identification: Both parties must provide a valid form of photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID, to prove their identity and age. We should also mention that applicants between the ages of 16 and 20 must also provide a certified copy of their birth certificate.
- Social Security Numbers: You’ll both need to provide your Social Security numbers. If you don’t have a Social Security number or are not eligible for one, you’ll need to present a notarized Affidavit of Social Security Ineligibility/No Social Security Number when you appear to apply for your license.
- Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is between 16 and 17 years old, special requirements will apply. According to North Carolina General Statutes § 51-2, applicants between 16 and 17 years old must obtain a court order or written consent from a parent or guardian. Additionally, there can only be a maximum age difference of 4 years between the applicants.
- Previous Marriages: If either party has been previously married, you’ll need to provide the date of the divorce or the date of your former spouse’s death. Some counties may ask for a certified copy of the death certificate or final divorce decree if you were divorced within the last 30 days.
What is the application process for getting a marriage license in North Carolina?
Both parties must apply in person at the Register of Deeds office in any North Carolina county. This form asks for personal details such as full names, addresses, and places of birth. The application process cannot be completed online or by mail. However, some counties will allow you to complete the application online 30 days before you visit the office to expedite the process. Call ahead to your local Register of Deeds office to confirm their requirements.
How much does a North Carolina marriage license cost?
There’s a fee for the marriage license, which varies by county. It typically ranges from $50 to $70. Be sure to check with your local Register of Deeds office for the exact amount and acceptable payment methods. For example, a Wake County marriage license costs $60.
Can you get married the same day you get your marriage license in North Carolina?
Some states have a mandated waiting period, which means they have to wait a certain number of days between the issuance of the marriage license and the wedding ceremony. However, North Carolina does not have a waiting period, so you can get married as soon as you receive your license. Easy peasy!
What should you do with the license after you get married?
After you’ve tied the knot in North Carolina, make sure you, your partner, and your officiant sign the marriage license. This confirms that the ceremony happened as planned. You’ll need to return the signed license to the Register of Deeds office where you got it. Try to do this as soon as you can after the wedding because you only have 10 days to return the license. If you miss this window, your marriage might not be officially recorded (yikes).
Once the office gets your license, it records it, and your marriage will be on file. You can then get certified copies of your marriage certificate if you need them to change your name or update your status on official documents.
The bottom line? Make sure to handle this step quickly so everything is officially on the books!
What happens if you don’t turn in your marriage license within 10 days in North Carolina?
If you don’t return your marriage license within 10 days in North Carolina, your marriage won’t be officially recorded, so it might not be recognized legally until the license is filed properly. If that happens, you might need to get a new license and start the whole process over again (and who wants that headache?!)
Not turning in the license on time could cause issues if you need to prove you’re married for multiple reasons, like adding your spouse to your health insurance benefits or filing taxes jointly. To keep things smooth, just make sure to return your completed marriage license to the Register of Deeds office right after your wedding day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about North Carolina marriage licenses
If you’re reading this but still have some unanswered questions, take a look at the responses to the most commonly asked questions about North Carolina marriage licenses:
Q: How long does it take to get a marriage license?
A. The application process for an NC marriage license is usually quick and takes about 30 minutes to an hour. However, processing times can vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your local Register of Deeds office.
Q: Can we use a marriage license obtained in one county in another county within North Carolina?
A. Yes, you can use a marriage license obtained from any county in North Carolina to marry anywhere in the state. The license is valid statewide. Just remember to return the license to the same county that issued it after your wedding ceremony.
Q: What should we do if we need to change the information on our marriage license?
A. If there is an error on the marriage license, contact the Register of Deeds office where the license was issued as soon as possible. They can guide you on how to correct any mistakes.
Q: What if one of us can’t be present to apply for the marriage license?
A. If one party can’t be present, you’ll need to provide a notarized “Affidavit in Lieu of Personal Appearance for Marriage License” and proof of the absent person’s identity and age. Check with the Register of Deeds office for specific requirements.
Final thoughts
Navigating the process of getting a marriage license in North Carolina might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right information and a bit of preparation, it’s a breeze. By understanding the requirements, gathering your documents, and following the application steps, you’ll be well on your way to making your wedding day official. Remember, the key is to plan ahead and take care of the paperwork early so you can focus on celebrating your special day without any added stress. And don’t forget to get your prenup! You can get this done before or after the marriage license. Cheers to making your wedding official!
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