North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 48. Adoptions § 48-5-101. Who may file for a petition to adopt an adult

(a) An adult may adopt another adult, except for the spouse of the adopting adult, pursuant to this Article.

(b) If a prospective adoptive parent is married, both spouses must join in the petition unless the prospective adoptive parent is the adoptee's stepparent or unless the court waives this requirement for cause.