How to Get Your North Carolina Marriage License (2026 Guide)

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Getting your marriage license is one of the most important steps in preparing for your wedding in North Carolina. Whether you're planning a large celebration or an intimate elopement at Cabin Heaven, the process is simpler than most couples expect — but there are essential requirements, documents, timelines, and legal steps you must follow.

This guide breaks down exactly how to get your North Carolina marriage license, updated for 2026, with county-specific details, fees, required documents, and common FAQs couples ask during the planning process.

1. North Carolina Marriage License Requirements

To legally marry in North Carolina, both partners must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old (Ages 16–17 require parental consent and a court order; under 16 cannot marry in NC.)

• Not be currently married If previously married, proof of divorce is required (see below).

• Not be closely related North Carolina prohibits marriage between close relatives (consult Register of Deeds for specifics).

• Apply for the license together Both applicants must appear in person at a North Carolina Register of Deeds.

There is no residency requirement — couples from any state (or country) may legally get married in North Carolina.

2. Documents You Must Bring

Bring these items to the Register of Deeds office when applying:

Required

• Valid government-issued photo ID (Driver’s license, passport, or military ID.)

• Social Security number OR an affidavit stating you have never been issued one.

If previously married

• Proof of divorce Final divorce decree must include the judge’s signature.If divorced within the last 30 days, the decree is required.

If name has recently changed

• Bring proof of legal name change documentation.

3. Fees, Validity & Waiting Period

💲 Marriage License Fee

Most NC counties charge $60, payable by:

• Cash

• Debit/credit card

• (Varies) Money order or certified check

Payment methods vary by county, so check ahead.

⏳ License Validity

Your marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue.If it expires before your ceremony, you must apply for a new license.

⏱ No Waiting Period

Once issued, you can get married immediately.Your officiant may perform the ceremony the same day.

All ceremonies at Cabin Heaven take place with mountain views — no hiking required.

4. Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Your Marriage License

Step 1 — Choose any NC county

You may apply in any North Carolina county. The license is valid statewide, including Hendersonville and Asheville.

Step 2 — Complete the online pre-application (recommended)

Most counties offer an online start to speed things up. This is optional but highly encouraged.

Step 3 — Visit the Register of Deeds office together

Bring your IDs, required documents, and payment.

Step 4 — Receive your license

Issued the same day.

Step 5 — Bring the license to your officiant

At Cabin Heaven, we review it with you before the ceremony to make sure everything is filled out correctly.

Step 6 — Return the license to the county

Your officiant is responsible for mailing or returning the completed license to the Register of Deeds.

Step 7 — Order certified copies

Certified copies are usually $10 per copy and are needed for:

• Name change

• Social Security

• Passport updates

• Financial/insurance updates

Order these after the county records your marriage.

North Carolina marriage licenses are valid statewide, so you can apply in any county before your ceremony.

5. County-Specific Information for Popular NC Wedding Destinations

While you can apply anywhere, these are the counties closest to Cabin Heaven and other top NC wedding areas:

Henderson County (Closest to Cabin Heaven)

• Approx. fee: $60

• Photo ID required

• Certified copies: $10

• Online application available(This is the county most Cabin Heaven couples use.)

Buncombe County (Asheville, NC)

• $60 fee

• Accepts online pre-application

• Busy office — appointments recommended during peak season

Mecklenburg County (Charlotte, NC)

• $60 fee

• Appointment system

• Same-day license pickup after document verification

Wake County (Raleigh, NC)

• $60 fee

• Strict rules about name accuracy and documentation

• Online application required before in-person visit

New Hanover County (Wilmington, NC)

• $60 fee

• Ideal for NC coast weddings

• Certified copies processed quickly

6. Special Situations Couples Ask About

• If you're divorced

  • Bring the final divorce decree, especially if the divorce is recent.

• If you're not a U.S. citizen

  • A passport or any government-issued ID is acceptable.A Social Security number is not required if you’ve never been issued one.

• If one partner cannot appear in person

  • North Carolina requires both applicants to appear. No exceptions.

• If your wedding date changes

  • Your license remains valid for 60 days.If the new date falls outside that period, you’ll need a new license.

7. FAQs About Getting Married in North Carolina

Do we need witnesses?

Yes. North Carolina requires two witnesses, ages 18+.

Cabin Heaven can provide witnesses if needed.

Can we bring a marriage license from another state?

No. Your marriage must use a North Carolina marriage license.

Do we need an officiant?

Yes. North Carolina requires:

• An ordained minister OR

• A magistrate

(Cabin Heaven can refer officiants if needed.)

Can we apply early?

You can apply up to 60 days before your ceremony. Applying too early may cause your license to expire before your wedding — a common mistake.

How long does the appointment take?

Usually 15–20 minutes, sometimes faster with pre-application.

8. Marriage License Checklist (Copy-and-Paste Ready)

Bring to the Register of Deeds:

• Photo ID (license, passport, or military ID)

• Social Security number or affidavit

• Divorce decree (if applicable)

• Payment (varies by county)

• Correct spelling of both full legal names

This checklist is ideal to save or print for appointment day.

If your wedding date changes, your marriage license remains valid for 60 days from the issue date.

9. Getting Married at Cabin Heaven?

Cabin Heaven offers elopements, weddings, micro-weddings, and full wedding experiences overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you're planning to marry here, bringing your license is the final legal step.

Your officiant will sign your license immediately after your ceremony, and we help ensure everything is completed correctly.

Ready to Plan Your North Carolina Mountain Wedding?

Book your date at Cabin Heaven and start planning your ceremony in the Blue Ridge Mountains.→ Check availability and packages here.