How to Get Married Online in North Carolina (Step-by-Step Guide)

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but for those in North Carolina, the option to tie the knot online brings a wave of modern convenience and charm. Whether you're drawn to the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the coastal beauty of the Outer Banks, or the historic charm of cities like Raleigh and Charlotte, North Carolina offers an array of stunning backdrops for your nuptials. 

For couples who want a more intimate, hassle-free experience, getting married online opens up a world of possibilities without sacrificing the state's unique charm. Imagine exchanging vows with the majestic Biltmore Estate as your backdrop or beneath the iconic Lighthouse at Cape Hatteras. For a truly unique experience, consider a virtual wedding ceremony streamed from the tranquil shores of Lake Lure, where the breathtaking scenery will be witnessed by your loved ones online. 

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to get married online in North Carolina, ensuring you can focus on celebrating your love without the stress of traditional wedding planning. From eligibility requirements to virtual ceremonies, we'll cover everything you need to know to make your digital wedding day as memorable and magical as any in-person event.

In-Person Wedding Requirements in North Carolina

Getting married in North Carolina involves a few specific steps to ensure your marriage is legally recognized.

Both partners must appear together at the local county Register of Deeds office to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to provide identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Your Social Security number is also required. Once you obtain your marriage license, you can get married immediately. There is no waiting period in North Carolina.

The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. Make sure your wedding takes place within this timeframe, or you'll need to apply for a new license Furthermore, the ceremony must be conducted by a recognized officiant, which can include a magistrate, an ordained minister, or any other authorized person.

North Carolina requires at least two witnesses to sign the marriage license after the ceremony, alongside the officiant's signature. After the ceremony, the signed marriage license must be returned to the Register of Deeds office for recording. This final step ensures that your marriage is officially documented.

Obtaining a North Carolina Marriage License Online

In North Carolina, the process of obtaining a marriage license can be streamlined by starting online. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process of applying for a marriage license online in North Carolina.

1. Choose the Appropriate County: Marriage licenses in North Carolina can be obtained from the Register of Deeds in any county. The license is valid statewide, so you can choose any county office that offers online applications.
2. Complete the Online Application: Visit the online portal of the county's Register of Deeds office. For example, Durham County provides an online application form that can be accessed through its official website.
3. Provide Necessary Documentation: During the application process, you will need to upload proof of your Social Security number or ITIN, and a valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. Applicants aged 16-20 may need to provide a certified birth record.
4. Schedule an Appointment: Some counties require that you schedule an appointment to complete the application process in person. For instance, Forsyth County allows you to start the application online, but you must finish it in person at their office.
5. Finalize the Application In-Person: After submitting the online application, visit the Register of Deeds office to sign the application and pay the required fee. This step is important to receive the actual marriage license.
6. Validity and Use: The marriage license is valid immediately upon issuance and can be used anywhere in North Carolina. Ensure your wedding ceremony occurs within 60 days of the license being issued.

Online Marriage License vs. Fully Online Marriage

Obtaining an online marriage license and having an online marriage are two separate processes. An online marriage license is just a document that grants legal permission for a couple to get married. Some states allow this license to be applied for and received online, making the paperwork easier. However, even with an online marriage license, the wedding ceremony itself still needs to happen in person, following state laws.

On the other hand, an online marriage, like those facilitated by Courtly, means the entire process, including both the legal documentation and the wedding ceremony, can be completed online. This offers a convenient and modern alternative to the traditional in-person wedding ceremony.

Courtly: Simplifying the Online Marriage Process in North Carolina

Courtly provides an easy and efficient option for couples looking to marry online. With this service, you can complete the entire process from anywhere, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork. Here's how you can quickly and smoothly obtain a valid U.S. marriage certificate through Courtly.

Step-by-Step Guide for Getting Married Online in North Carolina with Courtly

1. Create an Account.

Start by setting up an account on Courtly's website. Click on the "Get Married" button in the top right corner and follow the instructions. Once registered, you'll have full access to the Courtly platform.

2. Choose Ceremony Format, Setting, and Officiant.

Select your desired ceremony format, location, and style. Based on your chosen date and time, Courtly will match you with a legally qualified U.S. officiant.

3. Confirmation and Payment.

After selecting your wedding package, proceed to payment. Once the payment is completed, you will receive an email confirmation from Courtly, which will officially set your wedding plans in motion.

4. Online Marriage Celebration.

Invite your friends and family to join your virtual wedding. You can get married from the comfort of your home or any location with a stable internet connection. The ceremony usually takes around 15 minutes.

After your online wedding, you will receive a digital copy of your U.S. marriage certificate almost immediately. A printed copy will be mailed to you within 1 to 2 weeks, and you can download your digital marriage license within 24 hours after the ceremony.

The Legality of Online Marriages in North Carolina

Before the pandemic, many jurisdictions required both the officiant and the couple to be physically present for the marriage to be legally recognized. Couples also needed to visit the county clerk's office in person to obtain a marriage license.

In 2019, Utah County introduced an entirely digital marriage license application process through the collaboration of their marriage license office and IT departments. This new system allowed couples to complete the process without visiting the office in person.

A notable aspect of Utah's online marriage process is its accessibility to everyone, regardless of their place of residence. Marriages that are legally performed in one state are generally recognized across the United States, as long as they comply with both state and federal laws. Therefore, a couple that marries online using Utah's system will have their marriage recognized by other states.

Special Circumstances and FAQs

If you're not a resident of North Carolina, you can still apply for a marriage license in the state. Both applicants must be present at the county Register of Deeds office to submit their application. It's advisable to fill out the application online beforehand to save time, but remember to bring necessary documents like valid government-issued IDs and proof of social security numbers when you visit the office. This process is the same regardless of whether you are applying from within the U.S. or abroad​.

Expedited Processing Options

For those in a hurry, some counties in North Carolina offer expedited processing of marriage licenses. This generally involves visiting the Register of Deeds office in person and ensuring you have all required documents ready. Wake County, for example, provides immediate issuance of marriage licenses if you complete the application process correctly​.

If you need to get married as soon as possible, you may also consider using Courtly’s Rush Processing service which allows you to get married online in less than 24 hours. 

Handling Name Changes

After your marriage, you'll need to handle name changes and update other personal documentation. This involves obtaining a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county where you were married. With this document, you can change your name on your social security card, driver's license, and other important records. Make sure to contact the appropriate agencies for their specific requirements​.

If you’re in the US, you may also consider using a Name Change Kit to quicken the process. Each kit contains essential documents and instructions for changing your name after marriage.

The Legality of Online Marriage Abroad 

For couples considering an online marriage while abroad, it's important to understand the role of apostilles. An apostille is a certification that validates the document's legitimacy for use in another country, adhering to the Hague Apostille Convention. If you marry online, you will need to obtain an apostille for your marriage certificate to ensure its recognition in other countries​.

Final Thoughts

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate online marriage in North Carolina. We've covered the legal requirements for both in-person and online marriage applications, discussed the flexibility and benefits of using platforms like Courtly, and outlined the step-by-step process to get married online.

Using Courtly, you can streamline the entire marriage process. Courtly pairs you with a qualified officiant and handles the documentation, ensuring you receive your marriage certificate promptly.

By prioritizing clear communication with your chosen platform and meticulously planning your legal ceremony, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. This guide simplifies the online marriage journey in North Carolina, allowing couples to begin their new life together with confidence and ease.