Making It Official in Wilmington
A North Carolina marriage license is a must. You may get the license in any county, but must turn it into the Register of Deeds in the county where the wedding takes place. This is very helpful for out-of-town couples coming to the beach area to be married, because they can get their license at home and bring it with them.
Courthouses are open Monday through Friday but are closed on holidays; hours vary, so phone ahead (Register of Deeds offices listed to right). Both parties must be present. Take with you three forms of identification -- certified birth certificate, Social Security card and valid driver's license or DMV picture card ID. If a person has been divorced, the divorce decree must be recorded and in some instances, you'll be required to show a copy of the divorce decree itself. No blood test, physical exam or waiting period is necessary to obtain a marriage license, which costs $50 to $60 and is payable by cash only.
The license is valid for 60 days after being issued. Obviously, bring your marriage license to the wedding. Two witnesses must sign the license following the ceremony. The person who performs the ceremony is responsible for getting the license back to the Register of Deeds in the county in which you were married within 10 days. After you're married, the officiant or magistrate will issue you a marriage certificate.
Local Register of Deeds
New Hanover County Register of Deeds - Vital Records
24 N. 3rd Street, Room 103,
Wilmington
(910) 341-7106
Brunswick County Register of Deeds
75 Courthouse Drive, Bolivia
(910) 253-2690
Onslow County Register of Deeds
109 Old Bridge Street, Jacksonville
(910) 347-3451
Pender County Register of Deeds
300 N. Fremont Street, Burgaw
(910) 259-1225
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