So You're Tying the Knot in Raleigh: How to Get Your Marriage License Without Getting Hitched in Red Tape
Congratulations! You've found your lobster, your peanut butter to your jelly, the person who (hopefully) won't steal all the covers at night. Now, before you rush off to pick out matching bedazzled sweatsuits (because, let's be honest, that's totally a possibility), there's a little administrative hurdle to jump: the marriage license.
Fear not, lovebirds! Getting your marriage license in Raleigh, NC is about as easy as falling into a plate of buttery North Carolina barbecue (and way less messy). Here's how to do it without any unnecessary drama (unless you plan on some epic dance moves at the reception, that is).
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| How To Get A Marriage License In Raleigh Nc |
Step 1: Gather Your Goods (Like You're on a Quest for wedded bliss...but without the slaying of dragons)
- Valid government-issued ID: Think driver's license, passport, state ID – anything that says "Hey world, this is who I am, and yes, I am old enough to get married!"
- Proof of your Social Security number: Your W-2 form, a paystub, basically anything official with that magical nine-digit number.
- Certified birth certificate: This is only required if you're between 16 and 20 years old (and if that's the case, congrats on your maturity and also, maybe wait until you're out of your teens? Just a suggestion).
- Certified copy of divorce decree (if applicable): If either of you has been married before, you'll need to prove your marital status is officially "single and ready to mingle" again.
- The willingness to part with $60: A small price to pay for a lifetime of love (or at least a killer wedding cake).
Important Note: While some counties allow online applications, Wake County requires both parties to be physically present to apply. So dust off those dancing shoes, because you're about to do the paperwork cha-cha.
Step 2: Head to the Register of Deeds Office (Because apparently, getting married involves deeds...who knew?)
There are a few locations in Wake County to choose from. The main office is downtown Raleigh at the Wake County Justice Center (300 S. Salisbury St., Suite 1700). No appointment is needed, so just walk in during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm).
There are also satellite offices in Fuquay-Varina and Wake Forest if those are more convenient. Just remember, the Fuquay-Varina location is cash only, so don't show up with dreams of paying with your lucky wedding penny.
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
Step 3: Fill out the Fun Forms (Okay, maybe not fun, but definitely important)
The lovely folks at the Register of Deeds office will have you fill out a form with some basic information like your names, ages, and your sincere desire to get hitched.
Pro Tip: If you're feeling indecisive about which flavor of wedding cake to choose, use this form as a practice run for making big decisions together.
Step 4: Pay the Fee and Officially Become Licensed to Wed (Cue the confetti!)
Once the paperwork is done, it's time to pony up the $60 fee. They accept cash, credit cards, and maybe even a basket full of kittens (just kidding...probably).
And voila! You're now the proud owners of a marriage license. Congratulations, you've successfully navigated the first step on your road to wedded bliss!
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to make the process go faster?
Make sure you have all your documents in order before you head to the office.
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How long does the marriage license last?
Your North Carolina marriage license is good for 60 days, so get planning that dream wedding!
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
What happens if the license expires?
No worries! You can just reapply for a new one.
Can someone else come get the marriage license for us?
Nope, both parties need to be present in person.
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
Can we get married outside of North Carolina with a North Carolina license?
It depends on the state where you're getting married. Best to check with their marriage license requirements.
Now that you've got your marriage license, there's nothing standing in your way (except maybe a rogue squirrel with a grudge against wedding cakes). Onward to wedded bliss!
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