North Carolina Marriage License Guide (2026)
In North Carolina, marriage licenses are issued by the County Register of Deeds - not the Clerk of Superior Court. There is no statewide pre-download form, so apply in person. Call your County Register of Deeds to confirm the current fee.
The one thing to knowMarriage licenses are issued by the County Register of Deeds, not the Clerk of Superior Court.
The process
- Go to the County Register of Deeds
Marriage licenses in North Carolina are handled by the County Register of Deeds, not the Clerk of Superior Court.
- Apply in person
There is no statewide pre-download form; apply in person.
- Confirm the fee
Call your County Register of Deeds to confirm the current marriage license fee.
Marriage license fees by county — all 100 North Carolina counties
North Carolina-specific details
In North Carolina, marriage licenses come from the County Register of Deeds. The Clerk of Superior Court, whose fees are set by G.S. 7A-308, does not issue marriage licenses.
What to bring
- Both applicants, present in person (no statewide online application)
- Payment for the license fee (call to confirm the amount)
- Confirmation from the Register of Deeds of any required identification or documents
Frequently asked questions
Who issues a marriage license in North Carolina?
The County Register of Deeds - not the Clerk of Superior Court.
How much does it cost?
Call your County Register of Deeds to confirm the current fee.
Can I download a form in advance?
No. There is no statewide pre-download form; apply in person.
Does the Clerk of Superior Court issue marriage licenses?
No. Its fees are set by G.S. 7A-308, but marriage licenses are handled by the Register of Deeds.