Wilmington Marriage Records
Wilmington marriage records are maintained by the New Hanover County Register of Deeds. The City of Wilmington is the county seat of New Hanover County and is located along the Cape Fear River on the North Carolina coast. Marriage licenses in Wilmington are issued by the county, not the city. Morghan Getty Collins serves as the Register of Deeds for New Hanover County. The office requires appointments for marriage license applications, so plan ahead before visiting.
Wilmington Marriage Records Quick Facts
New Hanover County Register of Deeds in Wilmington
Morghan Getty Collins is the New Hanover County Register of Deeds. The main office is at 320 Chestnut Street in downtown Wilmington. A second satellite office is at 230 Government Center Drive. Both offices serve the county's marriage license and records needs. The main office handles the largest volume of requests and is the better choice for most Wilmington residents.
The phone number for the New Hanover County Register of Deeds is (910) 798-4530. The online portal is available at registerofdeeds.nhcgov.com. Use this site to find current hours, schedule appointments, and learn about required documents. The main county website at nhcgov.com/rod also provides register of deeds information for Wilmington residents.
| Office | New Hanover County Register of Deeds |
|---|---|
| Main Address | 320 Chestnut Street Wilmington, NC 28401 |
| Satellite Address | 230 Government Center Drive Wilmington, NC 28403 |
| Phone | (910) 798-4530 |
| Register | Morghan Getty Collins |
| Office Website | registerofdeeds.nhcgov.com |
Appointments for Wilmington Marriage Licenses
The New Hanover County Register of Deeds requires appointments for marriage license applications. You cannot walk in without an appointment and expect to receive a license that day. This policy helps manage wait times and ensures staff have adequate time for each couple. Book your appointment as early as possible, especially if your wedding date is approaching.
To schedule an appointment, visit registerofdeeds.nhcgov.com or call (910) 798-4530. Available times fill up, particularly during peak wedding seasons in spring and fall. Wilmington is a popular wedding destination due to its coastal setting and historic charm, which means the office can be busy with license requests.
Both applicants must attend the appointment together. Bring all required documents with you. If you arrive without a required document, your appointment may need to be rescheduled. Confirm the document list with the office before your appointment date to avoid this situation.
Documents Needed at the Wilmington Office
Prepare these items before your appointment at the New Hanover County Register of Deeds.
- Valid government-issued photo ID for each applicant
- Social Security numbers for both parties
- Final divorce decree if previously divorced
- Death certificate of former spouse if previously widowed
- Payment for the marriage license fee
Call (910) 798-4530 to confirm the current license fee and any additional requirements that may apply to your situation. Policies can change, and it is always best to verify current details directly with the office. Staff are helpful and can answer specific questions about your case before your appointment day.
Certified Copies of Wilmington Marriage Records
Certified copies of marriage certificates in Wilmington come from the New Hanover County Register of Deeds. You can request copies at either the main downtown office or the satellite location. Bring the names of both spouses and the marriage date. Staff will locate the record and issue your certified copy with the official seal.
Mail requests are also accepted at the main office at 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC 28401. Include a written request, identifying details, and payment. Certified copies are required for legal name changes, passport applications, and similar uses. Plain copies cost less but are not accepted for official purposes in most cases.
The City of Wilmington directs residents to the county register for all vital record needs. If you contact the city about a marriage record, they will point you to the New Hanover County Register of Deeds for assistance.
Wilmington Weddings and Marriage Records
Wilmington draws many couples who want to marry in a coastal setting. Historic downtown venues, beachside locations on Wrightsville Beach, and riverfront settings make this city a popular choice. Couples who marry in Wilmington need a New Hanover County marriage license regardless of where they live in North Carolina.
Out-of-town couples getting married in Wilmington follow the same process as local residents. Both parties apply at the New Hanover County Register of Deeds and bring the required documents. The license is then valid for 60 days and can be used for a ceremony anywhere in North Carolina. The completed license goes back to the register after the ceremony.
New Hanover County Marriage Records
Wilmington is the county seat of New Hanover County. All marriage records for Wilmington and the surrounding area are held at the county register's office. For full details on appointment scheduling, both office locations, fees, and historical records, visit the New Hanover County marriage records page.