MARRIAGE LICENSES
ID such as a drivers license, ID card issued from the DL Bureau, or a certified birth certificate is required.
A Social Security card is also required for both applicants. If the card is not available, a W-2 form, check stub, or tax return may be presented.
If the bride or groom does not have a Social Security number, an affidavit must be completed and notarized. (Affidavit forms are located in the Register of Deeds office.)
If divorced, the party must know the month and year of the divorce decree. If the divorce was finalized during the same month and year of the purchase of the new marriage license, the party must present a copy of the divorce decree.
The marriage ceremony must be performed in North Carolina. The marriage license is valid immediately upon purchase and for 60 days from the date of purchase. On the 61st day, the license expires.
To obtain a marriage license without parental consent, the applicant must be 18 years of age. If age 16 or 17, consent is required from a parent or legal guardian. If age 14 and 15, a court order must be presented to the Register of Deeds.
The fee for a marriage license is $50.00. CASH ONLY.
Office hours to purchase a marriage license is 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
* One party must appear and bring notarized affidavit (available in Register's Office) and driver's license (copy or original) and the Social Security number of the party not appearing. If the absent party has been previously married, proof of the divorce or death ending the last marriage must be presented.
QUESTIONS CONCERNING MARRIAGE LICENSE/CEREMONY
How do I obtain a copy of my marriage license? Why do I need a copy? If you were married in Rowan County, you may stop by our office and purchase a certified copy for $10.00. Cash or money order only. You may request your copy by mail. Give the names of the groom and bride at time of marriage and the date of marriage. Requests are mailed the same day received. Take the copy to the DL Bureau and apply for a new license. Go by or mail your certified copy to the Social Security office to get a new SS card. If you receive anything in the mail saying for a fee they will send you a new SS card, trash it. It is a scam.
Can we get married in the Register of Deeds office? No. For a civil ceremony, contact the Magistrate at 704-639-7511.
How do I file separation papers? See an attorney. The recording fee is $14.00 for the first page and $3.00 for each additional page.
How do I obtain a copy of my divorce? If the divorce was processed in Rowan County, you may obtain a copy from the office of the Clerk of Court located on the first floor of the Courthouse at 210 North Main Street, Salisbury or Post Office Box 4599, Salisbury NC 28145-4599.