Marriage records in Gaston County, North Carolina, can be accessed through several channels. GastonCourt.us can help you find publicly available marriage record information for the county. You can also contact the Gaston County Register of Deeds directly, visit the office in person, or submit a request by mail. The Register of Deeds is the official custodian of marriage records in Gaston County, and the North Carolina Judicial Branch's Gaston County page directs residents to that office for birth, death, marriage, and other public records.
Gaston County Marriage Records Search
In North Carolina, the Register of Deeds in each county issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records. The Gaston County Register of Deeds is the issuing authority responsible for marriage licenses, marriage certificates, and related historical records filed in the county. The office's collection includes all marriage licenses issued in Gaston County, returned marriage certificates after ceremonies are performed, and older marriage records dating back through the county's history.
Both applicants must appear together at the Register of Deeds office to apply for a marriage license. North Carolina does not require a blood test or waiting period, so a license can typically be used immediately after issuance. Marriage licenses in North Carolina are valid for 60 days from the date of issue, per N.C. General Statute § 51-7.
Certified Marriage Record Copies and Fees in Gaston County
Fees for marriage record services at the Gaston County Register of Deeds are set by North Carolina statute (N.C.G.S. § 161-10). The following table outlines standard fees:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Marriage license application | $60.00 |
| Certified copy of marriage certificate | $10.00 |
| Additional certified copy (same order) | $10.00 |
North Carolina also offers marriage certificates through the state's NC Vital Records office (NC Department of Health and Human Services). State-level certified copies for marriages recorded from 1962 to the present cost $24.00. Marriages that occurred before 1962 are only available through the county Register of Deeds where the license was issued. Processing times at the county office are generally same-day for in-person requests, while state-level and mail requests may take several weeks.
Order Marriage Certificates Online or In Person in Gaston County
There are three main ways to obtain a marriage certificate from Gaston County:
Online
The North Carolina Division of Public Health – Vital Records accepts online orders for marriage certificates for marriages recorded from 1962 forward. Orders can be placed through the NC Vital Records website or through their authorized third-party vendor. Online orders include additional processing and shipping fees beyond the base certificate cost.
In Person
Visit the Gaston County Register of Deeds at the address listed above during regular business hours. Walk-ins are accepted. Bring a valid photo ID. Certified copies are typically available the same day. Payment methods accepted generally include cash, check, and money order — contact the office to confirm whether credit or debit cards are accepted.
By Mail
Send a written request to the Gaston County Register of Deeds at:
Include the following with your mail request:
- Full names of both spouses
- Approximate date of marriage
- Your relationship to the persons named on the record
- A copy of your valid photo ID
- A check or money order for $10.00 per certified copy, payable to the Gaston County Register of Deeds
- A self-addressed stamped envelope for return mailing
For marriages from 1962 onward, you may also request records through the state by mailing a completed application to the NC Vital Records office in Raleigh. Allow several weeks for processing of mail requests at either the county or state level.
Marriage records in North Carolina are generally public records. However, if you need a certified copy for legal purposes — such as a name change, immigration petition, or insurance claim — make sure to request a certified version rather than an informational copy. For questions about specific records or older documents, contact the Gaston County Register of Deeds directly or visit GastonCourt.us for additional guidance on locating publicly available marriage record information.