Iowa Marriage License

Find out how to get your marriage license in Iowa.

 

Click here for info on Marriage license in Other states

 

In addition to planning a the ceremony and reception, you need to take care of the legal details of getting married. Here are details on getting an Iowa marriage license.

• WHEN should you get your Iowa Marriage License?
   About 1 month before your wedding date due to the 3 business day waiting period.
  
  
• What ID do you need to show proof of your age and identification?

You must show a photo id and provide a Social Security information.

Any of the following documents will serve as proof of identification:
driver’s license, state id card, passport, military id card, Iowa Department of Public Aid card.

If you do not have any of these forms of identification, then you may present
2 of the following forms of ID instead:

certified copy of your birth certificate, baptismal record with birth date, foreign passport, naturalization papers, US resident alien card, life insurance policy in effect for one year with your birth date, all consulate id cards. Affidavits not accepted.

• What are the RESIDENCY requirements?
  None. You do not have to be a resident of Iowa to get married in Iowa.
  
  
• What is the WAITING PERIOD?
  In Iowa there is a 3 business day waiting period to get married.
  
• Witnesses:
  You need to have one witness (over 18 years of age) with you when you apply for the license.

• What if one of us has been previously married or are DIVORCED?
  If either of you were previously married, you will need to show the date of divorce or date of spouse's death. If the divorce was within 60 days, a signed copy of the divorce decree will need to be provided.
  
  
• What are the FEESs to get married in Iowa?
  Getting married in Iowa will cost you approximately $30.
  You must pay with cash. The fee and acceptance of checks or credit cards varies from County to County.
  
• Other Tests in Iowa:
  No other tests are required in Iowa for a marriage license.
  
• Proxy Marriage in Iowa:
  No. However, if one of you can't be present at the Recorder's Office to apply for the license, the absent party can sign the Iowa marriage license application before a Notary Public.
  
  
• Can you marry your COUSIN?
  No.
  
  
• Are there COMMON LAW marriages?
  Yes.
  
  
• Are SAME SEX, LESBIAN, or GAY MARRIAGES allowed? No.
  Yes, same sex marriages are legal in Iowa. The law became effective April 27, 2009.
  
• Whare are the rules for someone UNDER THE AGE of 18 years old.
  Applicants 16 or 17 years of age need to have parental consent.
  
  
• Who can OFFICIATE the marriage?
  Any ordained or licensed clergymen, and justices of the peace.
  
  
• How long is a marriage license VALID for?
  License is valid for 6 months.
  
  
• Where can I get a COPY of my Marriage Certificate?
  
Iowa Dept. of Public Health
321 E. 12th - 4th Floor
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: 515-281-4944

PLEASE NOTE:
The requirements for state and county marriage license change frequently. The information listed above is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice. It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.

Please let us know if you discover any oversights or errors.

 

Find out more about Iowa Marriage License and other States Marriage License