How to Get Married in Wilmington, NC | Top Courthouse Photographer In Wilmington

Congratulations y'all! I'm so hyped that y'all are getting married!

How do you get married in Wilmington, NC?

Here's your checklist.

1. Fill out a Marriage License Form
2. Get Appointment at Register of Deeds office in New Hanover
3. Valid Photo ID or Driver's License or Passport (You'll need these)
4. $60 cash, check, or card for your Marriage License (wait 24 Hours to pick up your License)
5. Set up an Appointment with Ceremony Officiant or Courthouse
6. Attend the ceremony with your partner and 2 witnesses.
7. Sign the marriage license.
8. Have the officiant file the license.
9. Request a marriage certificate for proof of marriage.
10. Congrats, you're officially married!

HOW TO GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE

First you'll need to schedule an appointment at Register of Deeds office in New Hanover

Schedule an appointment online or Call (910) 798-4530

Here

Requirements:

• Both you and your partner must appear in person at the New Hanover County Register of Deeds office in Wilmington to apply for a marriage license.
• You both must be at least 18 years old. If either of you is 16 or 17, you'll need parental consent.
• You'll need to provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport.
• Complete a Marriage Form Here

Then head to Register of Deeds office at the date and time of your appointment

Go to this Address:

320 Chestnut St #102, Wilmington, NC 28401

Be sure to be there on time. They are open between 8:00AM - 4:30PM | Monday-Friday

Note: They DO NOT perform the ceremony there. You'll need an Officiant to do that for you.

Contact the courthouse or the Register of Deeds office to inquire about scheduling a civil wedding ceremony. They will provide information on available dates, times, and any additional requirements or fees for the ceremony.

Ceremony

On the scheduled date and time, both you and your partner, along with the required witnesses, will attend the civil wedding ceremony at the courthouse. A courthouse official, such as a magistrate, judge, or clerk, will typically officiate the ceremony.

Complete the Marriage License:

During the ceremony, the officiant and witnesses will sign the marriage license, making your marriage legally valid.

After the Ceremony

File the Marriage License:

After the ceremony, the officiant will file the signed marriage license with the Register of Deeds office to officially record your marriage.

Obtain a Marriage Certificate:

You can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the Register of Deeds office for a fee. This certificate serves as proof of your marriage.

FAQ

How do you get married in Wilmington NC

1. Obtain a marriage license from the New Hanover County Register of Deeds office.
2. Schedule a courthouse wedding ceremony.
3. Attend the ceremony with your partner and witnesses.
4. Sign the marriage license.
5. Have the officiant file the license.
6. Request a marriage certificate for proof of marriage.

Can you get married same day in NC?

Yes, you can get married on the same day you obtain your marriage license in North Carolina.

There is typically no waiting period in the state, however, it's essential to keep in mind that you must have the ceremony within the 60-day period of the marriage license from the date of issuance.

Do you have to make an appointment to get married at the courthouse in NC?

In Hanover County. Yes, You will need an appointment to get married at the Courthouse in Wilmington.