Get Hitched in Wake County: Your Guide to Obtaining a Marriage License
Looking to tie the knot in Wake County, NC? Get all the information you need about obtaining a marriage license here.
When two people decide to get married, one of the first things they have to do is obtain a marriage license. In Wake County, North Carolina, this process is straightforward, but it's essential to follow the necessary steps to ensure a successful application. Whether you're a resident or non-resident couple, obtaining a marriage license in Wake County is a relatively easy process that will allow you to celebrate your love and commitment legally. However, there are several factors to consider before applying for a Wake County marriage license.
The first thing to know is that both applicants must appear in person at the Wake County Register of Deeds office. This requirement applies to all couples, including those who are not residents of the county. Additionally, both applicants must provide valid identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and proof of their Social Security numbers. If either applicant has been married before, they must also bring divorce or death certificates as appropriate.
Once you arrive at the Register of Deeds office, you'll need to complete an application form and pay the relevant fees. The cost of a Wake County marriage license is $60, which includes a certified copy of the license that you'll receive after your wedding ceremony. It's worth noting that the fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied for any reason.
After you've submitted your application and paid the fee, there is a three-day waiting period before your marriage license becomes valid. This waiting period is mandatory in North Carolina and cannot be waived. It's important to plan ahead and apply for your license with enough time to spare before your wedding date. If you're in a hurry, you can take advantage of the Wake County Express Service option, which allows you to receive your license on the same day you apply, provided you arrive at the Register of Deeds office before noon.
One thing to keep in mind is that your Wake County marriage license is only valid for 60 days from the date of issue. It's essential to plan your wedding ceremony accordingly and ensure that you get married within this time frame. If your license expires before your wedding, you'll need to apply for a new one and pay the fee again.
If you're planning a wedding in Wake County, it's important to know that you have several options for your ceremony. You can choose to have a civil ceremony at the Register of Deeds office, or you can have a religious or secular ceremony at a location of your choosing. Your officiant must be authorized by the state of North Carolina to perform marriage ceremonies, and they must complete and sign your marriage license after your ceremony has taken place.
After your wedding, it's your responsibility to return your signed marriage license to the Register of Deeds office within ten days. Failure to do so can result in a fine, so it's essential to make sure you follow through with this step. Once your license has been recorded, you can obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate for legal purposes.
In conclusion, obtaining a Wake County marriage license is an essential step in getting married in North Carolina. While the process is relatively straightforward, there are several factors to consider, including the required waiting period, expiration date, and the importance of returning your signed license promptly. By following the necessary steps, you'll be able to celebrate your love and commitment legally in Wake County.
Introduction
If you are planning to get married in Wake County, North Carolina, one of the first things you need to do is obtain a marriage license. A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes a couple to get married. In this article, we will discuss the process of obtaining a Wake County marriage license and everything you need to know about it.
Eligibility Requirements
Before you can apply for a marriage license in Wake County, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and not currently married. If you are under 18, you will need parental consent to get married. Additionally, you and your partner cannot be closely related by blood or adoption.
Application Process
The application process for a Wake County marriage license is relatively straightforward. You can either apply in person or online. To apply in person, you need to visit the Wake County Register of Deeds office during their business hours. You will need to bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and pay a fee.
If you prefer to apply online, you can visit the Wake County Register of Deeds website and fill out the application form. You will still need to provide identification and pay the fee, but you can do so electronically. Once your application is processed, you will receive an email with instructions on how to obtain your marriage license.
Required Documents
In addition to a valid form of identification, you will need to provide several other documents to obtain a Wake County marriage license. These include:
Social Security Card
You and your partner will need to provide your Social Security card or a document that shows your full Social Security number.
Divorce Decree
If you or your partner has been previously married, you will need to provide a copy of the divorce decree or annulment papers.
Death Certificate
If you or your partner is widowed, you will need to provide a copy of the death certificate of the deceased spouse.
Waiting Period
Once you have submitted your application and all required documents, there is a 24-hour waiting period before you can pick up your marriage license. This waiting period ensures that there is time for any objections to be raised before the marriage takes place.
Expiration Date
A Wake County marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If you do not get married within this timeframe, you will need to apply for a new license.
Ceremony Requirements
To make your marriage legal, you must have a ceremony performed by an authorized officiant. This can be a religious or civil ceremony, as long as the officiant is authorized by the state of North Carolina to perform marriages.
Name Change
If you plan to change your name after getting married, you can do so using your marriage license. However, you will need to inform the Social Security Administration, DMV, and any other relevant agencies of your name change.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Wake County marriage license is a necessary step in the process of getting married in North Carolina. By following the eligibility requirements, submitting the required documents, and completing the waiting period, you can obtain a valid marriage license and make your union official.
Understanding the significance of Wake County Marriage License
If you're planning to get married in Wake County, North Carolina, obtaining a marriage license is a necessary step. As one of the most populous counties in the state, Wake County issues approximately 4,500 new marriage licenses each year. A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes couples to get married and is recognized as a binding agreement by law. In this article, we'll provide you with important information on how to obtain a Wake County Marriage License.Who is eligible to get a Wake County Marriage License?
To be eligible to obtain a marriage license in Wake County, both parties must be at least 18 years old or older, and they must present valid government-issued identification. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, passport, or military ID. If either party has been previously married, they must show a certified copy of their divorce decree or the death certificate of their former spouse.Where can you apply for a Wake County Marriage License?
You can apply for a Wake County Marriage License in person at the Register of Deeds office, which is located at 300 S Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC 27601. It's advisable to schedule an appointment before visiting the office to avoid long wait times.What documents do you need to bring when applying for a Wake County Marriage License?
When applying for a Wake County Marriage License, you must bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. Additionally, if you have been previously married, you must bring a certified copy of your divorce decree or death certificate of your former spouse.How much does it cost to obtain a Wake County Marriage License?
The cost of a Wake County Marriage License is $60. However, if you have completed a premarital preparation course, the cost is $20. Payment can be made in cash, money order, or credit card.How long is a Wake County Marriage License valid for?
A Wake County Marriage License is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. This means that you must get married within 60 days of obtaining your marriage license, or you'll need to apply for a new one.Can you get married the same day you receive your Wake County Marriage License?
Yes, you can get married the same day you receive your Wake County Marriage License. However, it's important to note that the wedding ceremony must be performed within the 60-day validity period of the license.Who can perform a marriage ceremony in Wake County?
In North Carolina, a minister, magistrate, or any other ordained partner who is authorized to perform marriage ceremonies can perform a marriage ceremony in Wake County. It's important to ensure that the person performing the ceremony is authorized to do so by the state of North Carolina.How do you apply for a Wake County Marriage Certificate?
After the marriage ceremony has taken place, the signed marriage license must be returned to the Register of Deeds office within ten days to obtain a marriage certificate. This certificate serves as legal proof of your marriage and is required for a variety of reasons, including changing your name, applying for spousal benefits, or filing joint taxes.Conclusion: The importance of obtaining a Wake County Marriage License
Obtaining a Wake County Marriage License is an important step towards legally tying the knot. By following the proper procedures and guidelines, you can ensure that your marriage is recognized and protected by the law. Remember to bring all necessary documents, pay the required fee, and get married within 60 days of obtaining your license. With a little planning and preparation, you can make your wedding day a memorable and legally binding event.Wake County Marriage License: Pros and Cons
Introduction
A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes the marriage of two individuals. In Wake County, North Carolina, obtaining a marriage license is a straightforward process that requires specific documentation and payment of fees. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of obtaining a Wake County Marriage License.Pros of Wake County Marriage License
1. Legal Protection: A marriage license provides legal protection to the couple, including inheritance rights, medical decision-making power, and tax benefits.
2. Recognition: A marriage license is an official recognition of a couple's union. It grants them the legal right to call themselves spouses and use marital titles such as Mr. and Mrs.
3. Celebration: Obtaining a marriage license is often the first step in the wedding planning process, which can be a joyous occasion for the couple and their families.
4. Ease of Process: The process of obtaining a marriage license in Wake County is relatively simple and straightforward. The couple needs to provide specific documentation, pay the fees, and wait for a few days to receive their license.
Cons of Wake County Marriage License
1. Cost: Obtaining a marriage license can be expensive, especially for couples on a budget.
2. Waiting Period: There is a mandatory three-day waiting period between applying for and receiving a marriage license in Wake County.
3. Limited Legal Recognition: Same-sex couples may not have the same legal recognition as opposite-sex couples in some states, including North Carolina.
4. Pressure: Some couples may feel pressured to obtain a marriage license due to societal or family expectations, rather than a genuine desire to get married.
Wake County Marriage License: Key Information
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | Couples must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in Wake County. |
| Identification | Couples must provide valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport. |
| Waiting Period | There is a mandatory three-day waiting period between applying for and receiving a marriage license in Wake County. |
| Expiration | A Wake County marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. |
| Cost | The cost of a Wake County marriage license is $60. |
Conclusion
Obtaining a Wake County Marriage License has its pros and cons. While it provides legal protection, recognition, and celebration, it can also be expensive, have a waiting period, and limited legal recognition. Couples should carefully consider these factors before applying for a marriage license.Final Thoughts on Wake County Marriage License
As we come to the end of this article, we hope that you have found all the information you need about obtaining a Wake County marriage license. It is essential to follow the process correctly to avoid any delays or issues that may arise during your wedding preparations.
We cannot stress enough the importance of having a valid marriage license before tying the knot. The license acts as legal proof of your union and is required in various legal and financial transactions, such as applying for spousal benefits, filing taxes, and obtaining health insurance coverage.
During the application process, ensure that you have all the necessary documents, such as government-issued identification and social security numbers. You should also schedule an appointment with the Register of Deeds office to avoid long wait times and ensure your application is processed promptly.
If you are planning to get married in North Carolina, Wake County offers an excellent destination. The county boasts beautiful outdoor wedding venues, top-rated hotels, and a vibrant nightlife scene that can provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.
It is also worth noting that Wake County has some unique marriage laws that you should be aware of. For instance, North Carolina does not allow same-sex marriages, and couples must be at least 18 years old to obtain a marriage license without parental consent.
Furthermore, if you are divorced, you will need to bring a copy of the final divorce decree when applying for a new marriage license. The same applies if your partner passed away, and you are planning to remarry.
Overall, getting a Wake County marriage license is a straightforward process that should not take much of your time. However, it is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by the Register of Deeds office to ensure that you have a valid and legal union.
If you have any questions or concerns about the marriage license application process, do not hesitate to reach out to the Wake County Register of Deeds office. They are always ready and willing to assist you with any issues you may have.
We hope that this article has been helpful in your preparations for your big day. We wish you all the best as you start your journey as a married couple and hope that your union will be filled with love, joy, and happiness.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and we hope to see you soon in Wake County.
People Also Ask About Wake County Marriage License
What are the requirements to obtain a marriage license in Wake County?
In order to obtain a marriage license in Wake County, both parties must be at least 18 years old and present a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. If either party has been previously married, they must provide documentation of the divorce, annulment, or death of their previous spouse.
How much does a marriage license cost in Wake County?
The fee for a marriage license in Wake County is $60. This fee can be paid in cash or by credit card at the Register of Deeds office.
Is there a waiting period to receive a marriage license in Wake County?
No, there is no waiting period to receive a marriage license in Wake County. Once all of the required documents have been submitted and the fee has been paid, the couple will receive their marriage license immediately.
How long is a Wake County marriage license valid for?
A marriage license in Wake County is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If the couple does not get married within this time frame, they will need to apply for a new marriage license.
Can I get married in Wake County if I am not a resident of North Carolina?
Yes, non-residents of North Carolina can still obtain a marriage license in Wake County. However, they must get married within the state of North Carolina in order for the marriage to be legally recognized.
What is the process for obtaining a marriage license in Wake County?
The process for obtaining a marriage license in Wake County involves the following steps:
- Both parties must appear in person at the Register of Deeds office.
- Each party must present a valid government-issued photo ID.
- If either party has been previously married, they must provide documentation of the divorce, annulment, or death of their previous spouse.
- The couple must complete a marriage license application and pay the $60 fee.
- The couple will receive their marriage license immediately.