"I remember having one couple present their marriage license to the minister after the ceremony and he quickly pointed out that they were married in a different county then what was on the marriage license.   At that time, according to the marriage laws of NC, being wed in a different county then where the couple applied for/received their marriage license  meant the ceremony was not binding.  More to the point, it made the ceremony the couple just had null and void.  Imagine that kind of surprise on your wedding day! " 

 

Nowadays, the marriage license application laws for NC are have been updated and are provided below.  Just know this, having a physical exam before receiving a marriage license is no longer a requirement.  Also, a marriage license purchased in the state of NC can be applied for/used anywhere within the state of NC and is valid for 60 days from the date it was issued.  

 

--Mary Basnight

 

Marriage licenses are issued by the Register of Deeds in the Dare County Justice Center, 962 Marshall C. Collins Dr., Manteo.  Both parties must apply in person for the license.  The following items are needed:

 

-picture id

-social security card or certificate with your social security number listed (W2 or pay  stub)

-birth certificate if under 21

-divorce papers with judge's signature

 

The marriage license is $50 and good for 60 days after issuance.  The Register of Deeds can be reached at (252) 475-5970, between 8:30 am -4:30pm., Monday through Friday.  The office is closed on holidays and weekends.  For civil ceremonies, a Dare County magistrate can perform the service.  Ceremonies are performed at the magistrates office in Manteo, located on Driftwood Drive (252) 475-9228.  A marriage application can be filled out at locations throughout the state of NC and can be used anywhere within the state of NC.

 

Contact the town in which your ceremony will be held regarding any additional permits or restrictions. 

 

Town of...

Duck -252-255-1234

Southern Shores-252-261-2394

Kitty Hawk-252-261-3552

Kill Devil Hills-252-449-5300

Nags Head-252-441-5508

Manteo-252-473-2133

Cape Hatteras Nat'l Seashore Recreational Area-252-473-2111

 

If getting married in Corolla, contact the Currituck County Register of Deeds at 252-232-3297.

If getting married on Ocracoke Island, contact the Hyde County Register of Deeds at 252-926-3011.

 

Info courtesy of Dare County Tourism, www.OuterBanks.org