Where do we obtain a marriage license?

It is the responsibility of the couple to obtain a marriage license prior to the wedding. The following guidelines were published by the Buncombe County Register of Deeds regarding North Carolina Marriage Laws effective October 1, 2001: Persons need not be residents of this state to marry in this state.

The new law allows the parties to obtain a license in one county in North Carolina and get married in another county, (in North Carolina only.)

Two witnesses are required and must include their Signature and addresses on both forms.

Persons authorized by any religious denomination, magistrate, or any Indian Tribe may perform a marriage ceremony.Once the marriage has been performed and both copies of the License returned to the Register of Deeds Office, a Certificate of Marriage may be obtained upon request. A Marriage License Application is valid for 60 days only after the date of issuance by the Register of Deeds.

Without the license in hand on the day of the wedding, the ceremony can not be performed. To apply for a marriage license in Buncombe County, you may call (828-250-4300), FAX (828-255-5829), or write to:

          Asheville, NC 28801-3563