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Register of Deeds

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1. What is your web page address for document research?

Visit the Deeds document inquiry website for document research.

2. Can the Register of Deeds conduct a title search of my property?

No. You must contact an attorney or a paralegal under the supervision of an attorney for a title search.

3. How do I transfer names on a deed?

To transfer names on a deed, a new deed must be prepared. Unless you are familiar with preparing legal documents, it is advisable to seek legal counsel.

4. If I lose my original deed, how do I replace it?

The Register of Deeds is authorized by law to issue a certified copy of any deed recorded in the public registry. Refer to the Fee Schedule for copy fees.

5. Where can I get a map of my property?

If the map of your property is recorded in Orange County, you can obtain a copy from the Register of Deeds office. Submit the book and page number of the desired map. Refer to the Fee Schedule for plat copy fee.

6. How may I obtain a copy of a PLAT?

A copy of your PLAT may be available online if not, you may come into our office and we will assist you in obtaining a copy.

7. Where is parking available?

In the parking deck immediately behind the Gateway Center building.

8. What is your address?

The Register of Deeds is located at:

228 S Churton Street,
Suite 300
Hillsborough, NC 27278

9. What are your hours of operation?

Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday form 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

10. What are the requirements for obtaining a marriage license?

View the requirements for obtaining a marriage license.

11. How can I get a copy of my marriage certificate?

If you purchased your marriage license in Orange County, you may request a copy in person or by mail. For more Information, go to the Marriage License page.

12. What are the acceptable forms of identification for a marriage license?

A Driver's License with photograph, State issued Identification Card or a Passport.

Agents, attorneys, or legal representatives must also furnish documentation of authority in order to receive a certified copy of any type of certificate for an individual.

13. How may I obtain a copy of my divorce?

If your divorce was processed in Orange County, you may obtain a copy from the Orange County Clerk of Court's Office, located in the Orange County Courthouse.

14. What is the fee for a Marriage License?

The fee is $60, payable by cash, debit / credit card (*convenience fee will be applied; 2.5%, minimum $2), money order or certified bank check.

15. Do I have to make an appointment to apply for a Marriage License?

No. Applications are accepted daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (except for holidays).

16. Is it possible to apply for a marriage license in Orange County and get married in another county in North Carolina?

Yes; however the marriage license must be returned to the County in which it was issued (example: If the marriage license was issued in Orange County, it must be returned to Orange County.)

17. What is the valid period of time for the marriage license?

It is valid immediately and remains valid for sixty days from the date of issuance.

18. Are premarital physical exams required?

No they are not.

19. Whom do I contact regarding a civil ceremony?

Contact the magistrate, (Hillsborough - 919-644-4690 or Chapel Hill - 919-929-5707), during office hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fee is $20.

20. What is the procedure for changing my name after marriage?

• First, present a certified copy to The Social Security Administration. Certified copies of a marriage license can be obtained from:
  Register of Deeds office,
  Gateway Center
  228 S Churton Street
  Suite 300
  Hillsborough, NC 27278
  
  or request by mail:
  P.O. Box 8181
  Hillsborough, NC 27278

Certified copies are $10 per copy.

• Present the certified copy to the Department of Motor Vehicles for a change on your driver’s license (DMV does not keep the copy).

21. How do I register a business name?

Complete the proper Assumed Name form and pay appropriate recording fee. You may download a copy of these and other business forms at the Secretary of State's website.

22. What are the fees for recording?

View the Fees page for more information.

23. How do I determine the excise tax on a property?

The current North Carolina excise tax stamps are $1 per $500 or fractional part of the value of the property conveyed. (Deeds recorded prior to August 1991, the excise tax was $1 per thousand.)

24. May I obtain a Birth Certificate from your office?

Obtain a Birth Certificate from the office.

25. How do I obtain an initial appointment or reappointment form for my Notary Public Commission?

Notary forms, including Notary Public Applications are available on the North Carolina Secretary of State's Notary Public website or you may pick up the form from either our office Secretary of State's Office, Notary Division 919-807-2131). When your Notary Commission is approved by the Secretary of State, you will receive a notice instructing you to appear in the Register of Deeds office to take your oath of office.

26. Do I need an appointment to take my notary oath?

An appointment to take the Notary Oath is not necessary. Our office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday (except holidays). Submit the notice received from the Secretary of State's Office to the Register of Deeds and your driver's license or other photo ID for identification. Refer to the Fee Schedule.