Raleigh, NC

Raleigh marriage license cost and civil wedding steps

Last updated: 2026 • Official Source ↗

Quick answer

Raleigh: For Raleigh, the listed marriage license fee is $60. There is no waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 Days. Use the official source before applying, because local offices can change fees, appointments, and ceremony rules.

License Fee

$60

Wait Time

no waiting period

Valid For

60 Days
Ranked #41 of 86 by lowest listed cost, below the $66 average
Same-day available — No waiting period required

Raleigh marriage license cost and wait time

Raleigh's listed marriage license fee is $60. There is no waiting period, and the license has a 60 Days validity window. Compared with the US city average of $66, Raleigh is $6 below average and ranks 41 of 86 for lowest listed cost.

Courthouse or city hall wedding in Raleigh

If you are searching for a courthouse wedding in Raleigh, start with the marriage license. Civil ceremony appointments, city hall options, officiants, and return rules are handled locally, so confirm ceremony availability with the official office before choosing a date.

Official details can change without much notice. Treat this as a planning guide and verify with the linked office before you apply.

Overview

Couples getting married in North Carolina must obtain a marriage license before the wedding from the Register of Deeds. Licenses can be obtained from any county's Register of Deeds office within the state, and some counties allow online applications to expedite the process. The marriage license must be used within 60 days of issuance.

1

Requirements

2

Process

01

Obtain Application

Contact the Register of Deeds in your chosen county to inquire about online application options or to obtain a physical form.

02

Complete Application

Fill out the marriage license application form with accurate information regarding names, ages, marital status, and intention to marry.

03

Provide Documentation

Present required documentation, such as proof of age (government-issued ID or birth certificate) and proof of divorce if applicable, to the Register of Deeds office.

04

Pay Fee & Receive License

Pay the required fee to the Register of Deeds and receive your marriage license.

How Raleigh compares

CityLicense FeeWait Time
Raleigh$60no waiting period
Anchorage, AK$60no waiting period
Charlotte, NC$60no waiting period
Cleveland, OH$60no waiting period
Anaheim, CA$61no waiting period
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a marriage license in Raleigh?

The listed marriage license fee for Raleigh is $60. Fees can change, so verify the amount with the official office before applying.

How long does it take to get a marriage license in Raleigh?

Raleigh: There is no waiting period. If you are planning a civil or courthouse wedding, build that timing into your date planning.

Can you have a courthouse wedding in Raleigh?

Courthouse, city hall, or civil ceremony availability depends on the local office. The marriage license is the first step; use the official source to confirm ceremony appointments and local rules.

Is there a waiting period to get married after obtaining a license?

No, North Carolina has no required waiting period between the issuance of the marriage license and the wedding.

What if a couple does not get married within 60 days of obtaining the license?

The marriage license expires after 60 days, and applicants must apply again if the wedding does not occur within that timeframe.

Can a judge perform a wedding in North Carolina?

No, judges cannot perform marriages in North Carolina.