How to Get a Marriage License in North Carolina


Whether you’re planning a courthouse “I do,” a mountaintop elopement, or an intimate ceremony with chosen family, getting legally married in North Carolina is surprisingly simple and fully inclusive for LGBTQ+ couples.


As a queer microwedding and adventure elopement photographer, here is my step-by-step guidance to help nontraditional couples feel confident and empowered getting married in North Carolina.


North Carolina legally recognizes same-sex marriage, gender-neutral partnerships, and non-religious ceremonies (as long as its filed correctly!) making it a beautiful option for couples looking to elope in Asheville, explore unique elope destinations, or keep things joyfully unconventional.



newly wed couple walking down aisle after microwedding ceremony in blue ridge mountains

Step 1: Choose Your County


You can apply for a marriage license in any North Carolina county, regardless of where you plan to marry. Many couples who elope in Asheville choose Buncombe County, but you’re free to pick whichever county is most convenient for the application. This flexibility is perfect for elopement couples traveling from out of state or still deciding on multiple elope destinations and ceremony spots in North Carolina.


Step 2: Apply Online or In Person

Most counties allow you to begin your marriage license application online. After submitting, you’ll need to come to the Register of Deeds office in person to finalize it. 


You’ll need:

  • Both partners in person 
  • Valid photo IDs
  • Social Security numbers (if applicable)
  • $60 fee (some counties only accept cash or check so check ahead)


North Carolina does not require blood tests, proof of residency, or religious affiliation. For Buncombe County’s Marriage License, see their hours and address here.

queer trans man and alternative bride with officiant during lgbtq wedding ceremony

Step 3: Show Up as You Are


Your marriage license will list you simply as two applicants — no gendered roles required. North Carolina law supports LGBTQ+ couples fully, and you are not required to disclose sexual orientation, religion, or gender identity.

Whether you’re planning a queer elopement, a poly-affirming commitment ceremony (with legal marriage between two partners), or a city hall wedding followed by champagne, you are legally protected and recognized. 


Step 4: Get Married Anywhere You Want


Once issued, your marriage license is valid for 60 days anywhere in North Carolina. There is no waiting period in North Carolina, which means you can technically get married immediately! The Buncombe County courthouse facilitates weddings first come first serve on Fridays. If you want something more nontraditional, instead consider: 

  • Elope in Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains
  • Exchange vows with your feet in a waterfall, on the deck of a private Airbnb, or even just your own backyard
  • Create a ceremony that reflects your identity, not tradition. As long as your officiant is ordained and includes the required verbiage, your vows will be legal! (I am a gay celebrant and include officiant services in my all inclusive elopement packages so keep me in mind if you go this route!)


Your officiant can be:

  • A magistrate (what you will find at the courthouse) OR
  • A legally ordained officiant (including online ordinations)


You will also need two witnesses for your ceremony. If getting married at the courthouse, couples often pull in bystanders waiting for their turn. For couples eloping in the mountains, we often find hikers happy to sign the license for you. Unfortunately pets and children are not able to be witnesses, but don’t stress about bringing your own witnesses. 

All you really need is the completed application and an officiant to get married anywhere in the state. No church. No religious language required. Your ceremony can be spiritual, secular, symbolic, or totally off-beat.

lesbian wedding vows in asheville waterfall

Step 5: Return the License


After your ceremony, your officiant returns the signed license to the Register of Deeds. This typically takes about a week. Then you can order certified copies — perfect for name changes and updating benefits. Keepsake marriage certificates are fun for commemorating your love story but are not a substitute for the certified copy of your license. 


Why North Carolina Is Perfect for LGBTQ+ Elopements


Western North Carolina offers:

  • Queer-affirming marriage rights
  • Stunning elope destinations from mountains to coast
  • Easy elopement laws & city hall wedding options
  • Freedom to design non-traditional ceremonies (this is where I come in!)


For couples wanting to elope in Asheville, the combination of legal ease, natural beauty, and inclusive culture makes it one of the most beloved elopement destinations in the Southeast. If you want to get married in North Carolina, but want options beyond the courthouse - I offer all inclusive elopement packages perfect for couples like you.



Final Thoughts


Marriage doesn’t have to look traditional to be meaningful. Whether you’re eloping, planning a city hall wedding, or creating a ceremony that reflects your authentic love, North Carolina gives you the freedom to do it your way. Your relationship is valid. Your ceremony matters. And your love deserves to be celebrated — exactly as it is.