Guide · Officiant
How to Fill Out a North Carolina Marriage License
The marriage license has two halves. The Register of Deeds completes the top before issuing it; the officiant completes the bottom after the ceremony. Errors on the bottom half are the most common reason marriages have to be re-recorded — here's how to do it right.
Officiant section
Print the date of the ceremony, the city and county where it occurred, your full legal name, your officiant title (Minister, Magistrate, etc.), your denomination or ordaining body, and your mailing address. Sign in ink — blue or black only.
Witness signatures
Two witnesses 18 or older must print and sign their names. Both witnesses must be physically present at the ceremony. Witnesses can be family, friends, or guests — there is no restriction.
Common mistakes
Wrong county (use the county where the ceremony actually occurred, not where the license was issued). Witness under 18. Officiant signing in pencil or non-permanent ink. Missing denomination or ordaining body. Returning the license more than 10 days after the ceremony — this triggers a $200 late fee against the officiant.
Returning the license
Mail or hand-deliver the completed license to the Register of Deeds office that issued it (printed on the top of the license). Use certified mail if mailing — losing a completed license requires a court order to replace.
Frequently asked
What pen should I use?
Blue or black ink, ballpoint or rollerball. Avoid gel pens (they smear) and never use pencil.
Can the same person be witness and officiant?
No. The officiant and witnesses must be three separate people.
What if I make a mistake on the form?
Do not use white-out. Draw a single line through the error, write the correction above, and initial. Multiple corrections may require contacting the issuing office.
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