Marriage records in Johnston County, North Carolina, are available through several channels. JohnstonCourt.us provides access to public information about the county's marriage records. Additionally, the Register of Deeds office maintains records of marriage licenses and certificates, and you can contact them in person, by mail, or use the online record search. The state also keeps copies through NC Vital Records.
Johnston Marriage Records Search
In North Carolina, marriage records are maintained by the Register of Deeds Office of the county where the license was issued. The Johnston County Register of Deeds keeps marriage licenses, returned marriage certificates, and historical records dating back to the county's founding. The collection includes both original license applications and signed ceremonial documents returned by the officiant after the ceremony.
For a basic search by last name, use the county's online public records search system — it covers land records and vital records. No appointment is necessary.
Certified Marriage Record Copies and Fees in Johnston
Fees for copies of marriage records are set according to the General Statutes of North Carolina (N.C.G.S. § 161-10). Below are the current rates for the Johnston County Register of Deeds:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of marriage certificate (first copy) | $10.00 |
| Each additional copy (in one order) | $10.00 |
| Uncertified / informational copy | Contact the office for details |
Payment is typically accepted in cash, money order, or check payable to Johnston County Register of Deeds. The processing time for in-person requests is usually the same day. Mail requests may take 5 to 10 business days. Certified copies can also be ordered at the state level through NC Vital Records for an additional fee.
Order Marriage Certificates Online or In Person in Johnston
There are three main ways to obtain a copy of a marriage certificate in Johnston County.
Online
The State of North Carolina offers ordering of certified copies through the NC Vital Records portal. This applies to marriages registered since 1962. An additional service fee is charged for online orders. At the county level, the Register of Deeds online search allows you to view index data, but to obtain a certified copy, you must contact the office directly.
In Person
Visit the Register of Deeds office at the address provided above. No appointment is necessary — the office accepts visitors Monday through Friday until 16:45. Bring with you:
- A valid photo ID
- The names of the spouses and the approximate date of marriage
- Payment according to the fees
By Mail
Send a written request to the office address:
Include in your letter:
- Full names of both parties to the marriage
- Approximate date of marriage registration
- A copy of your photo ID
- A money order or check for $10.00 for each copy
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
For additional questions regarding public record requests in North Carolina, contact the Register of Deeds office by phone or visit the official Johnston County website.