Can a notary perform marriage in North Carolina?

Yes, notaries in North Carolina are authorized to solemnize marriages. However, there are specific steps and requirements that must be followed for a notary to perform a marriage ceremony:

1. Legal Age: The individuals getting married must be at least 18 years old. If either person is under the age of 18, parental consent or a court order may be required.

2. Marriage License: Couples must first obtain a marriage license from the Register of Deeds in the county where the marriage will take place. The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.

3. Identification: Both the notary and the individuals getting married must present valid government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport, during the marriage ceremony.

4. Witnesses: At least two witnesses must be present at the marriage ceremony and sign the marriage certificate as witnesses. The witnesses should be competent adults who are not directly related to either person getting married.

5. Marriage Ceremony: The notary will conduct the marriage ceremony by reading a script or statement, asking the individuals getting married to repeat vows or declarations, and then pronouncing them legally married. The notary will also complete and sign the marriage license.

6. Filing the License: The notary must file the completed marriage license with the appropriate Register of Deeds office within 10 days after the ceremony.

It's important to note that while a notary can solemnize marriages in North Carolina, they may not perform marriages that involve certain special circumstances, such as proxy marriages or marriages between close relatives. Additionally, some counties in North Carolina may have additional requirements or regulations for notaries performing marriages, so it's advisable to check with your local Register of Deeds office for specific details.