North Carolina Marriage License Information, Laws, Requirements

Cost of License

What is the cost of a marriage license?

The marriage license fee is $50.00 dollars. Accepted forms of payment are cash.

Residency Requirements

What are the residency requirments for North Carolina?

None, you do not have to be a previous or current resident of North Carolina to obtain a marriage license that is valid statewide.

Waiting Period

Is there a waiting period from the application date to the date the license is issued?

No, you will receive your license immediately.

Is there a waiting period from the date the license is issued to the date I am allowed to marry?

No, you can marry immediately after receiving your license.

Age Requirement

What is the minimum age a man or woman may marry?

You must be 18 years old or older to marry without parental consent. A birth certificate may be necessary to show proof of age.

What if one or both of us is younger than 18?

If either partner is under 18, parental consent forms must be signed. You will need a certified copy of your birth certificate. If you are under 16 you can not marry without a court order.

Blood Tests and Physical Exams

Are blood tests and physical exams required?

No blood test or physical exam is required.

icense Expires

How long does a marriage license remain valid once it's been issued?

Your license will expire 60 days from the date it is issued.

Divorced and Widowed Applicants

What if one or both partners have been divorced or have had a spouse die?

If previously married, the date of divorce or date of spouse's death must be provided. If the divorce or spouse's death had taken place within the last 60 days, bring a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate. A copy of your divorce records or spouse's death certificate can be ordered online.

Obtain Vital Records

Where can I obtain a certified copy of a marriage, divorce, or death certificate?

Certified copies of marriage, divorce, or death records can be ordered online.

Miscellaneous Questions

Are proxy marriages legal?

No, marriage by proxy is not allowed.

Are cousin marriages legal?

Yes, cousin marriages are allowed. First cousins may marry, but double first cousins may not marry. Double first cousins occur when the couple is related through both parents. For instance, Jerry marries Sally and Jerry's sister marries Sally's brother. Their children are double first cousins.

Are common law marriages legal?

No, common-law marriages are not allowed.

Are same sex marriages legal?

No, same-sex marriages are not allowed.

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