Marriage records in Carter County, Tennessee, can be accessed through several channels. CarterCourt.us can help you find publicly available marriage record information for Carter County. You can also contact the county clerk's office directly, visit in person at the Carter County Courthouse in Elizabethton, or submit a request by mail. The Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records, maintains statewide marriage records as well and offers an additional path for obtaining certified copies.
Carter County Marriage Records Search
In Tennessee, the county clerk is responsible for issuing marriage licenses. The Carter County Clerk's office, located inside the Carter County Courthouse in Elizabethton, issues marriage licenses and maintains local records of marriages performed within the county. These records include marriage license applications, issued licenses, and returned marriage certificates filed after a ceremony takes place.
Historical marriage records for Carter County may date back to the county's founding in 1796, though the availability and condition of older records can vary. The Tennessee Department of Health also keeps statewide marriage records for events occurring from July 1945 forward. For records predating that date, the county clerk's office is typically the only local source.
Carter County Clerk's Office
Certified Marriage Record Copies and Fees in Carter County
Fees for marriage record copies in Carter County follow Tennessee state guidelines. The Tennessee Department of Health also issues certified copies of marriage records for events recorded since July 1945. Below are the standard fees:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certified copy (county clerk) | Contact the Carter County Clerk for current fee |
| Certified copy (Tennessee Vital Records) | $15.00 |
| Additional certified copy (same order, state) | $5.00 each |
| Online order processing (state, via VitalChek) | Additional service and shipping fees apply |
The state fee is set per Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-3-206. County clerk fees may differ slightly; contact the office directly for the exact amount. Processing times at the state level are typically 4–6 weeks for standard mail requests.
Order Marriage Certificates Online or In Person in Carter County
There are three main ways to obtain a marriage certificate from Carter County or the state of Tennessee:
Online
The Tennessee Department of Health partners with VitalChek for online vital records orders. You can order a certified copy of a marriage certificate for any marriage recorded in Tennessee from July 1945 onward. Expect additional processing and shipping fees on top of the base $15 state fee.
In Person
Visit the Carter County Clerk's Office at the courthouse during regular business hours:
Bring a valid photo ID. Walk-ins are generally accepted, but calling ahead is recommended to confirm availability and the current fee.
By Mail
To request a marriage record copy by mail from the state, send the following to the Tennessee Office of Vital Records:
- A completed Tennessee vital records application (available on the Tennessee Vital Records website)
- A check or money order for $15.00 (payable to Tennessee Vital Records)
- A photocopy of your valid government-issued photo ID
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
For a local copy, you can also mail your request to the Carter County Clerk at the courthouse address above. Include the names of both spouses, the approximate date of marriage, your contact information, payment, and a copy of your ID. Call (423) 542-1801 first to confirm the current fee and any specific requirements.
Carter County has adopted a public records request policy consistent with the Tennessee Public Records Act (Tenn. Code Ann. § 10-7-503). Marriage records are generally considered public records in Tennessee, though certain personal information may be restricted depending on the record type and date. If you have questions about access or confidentiality, ask the clerk's office directly before submitting your request.