How to Apply for a Marriage License in Iowa

A Complete Marriage License Guide for Iowa Couples Planning Their Wedding

Planning your wedding is an exciting time, and there is so much to think about! From choosing your wedding venue to picking out the perfect wedding dress, there’s no shortage of wedding details to focus on. One crucial step in the process is obtaining your marriage license. In Iowa, this is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few important things to know before heading to the courthouse!

We at Price Creek Event Center, your top wedding venue in Eastern Iowa, are here to walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a marriage license in Iowa. Let’s get started!

When Should You Apply for a Marriage License in Iowa?

In Iowa, couples must apply for their marriage license at least three days before the wedding ceremony. You can apply for the marriage license up to six months in advance, so it’s best to do this as soon as you are able after you know your wedding date.

Keep in mind that once issued, the marriage license is valid immediately and can be used the same day. However, the license must be used within 90 days of issuance—meaning your wedding must take place within that window.

Where to Apply for a Marriage License in Iowa

Marriage licenses in Iowa are issued by county recorder’s offices. You can apply in any county in Iowa, regardless of where the wedding ceremony will take place. However, you’ll need to visit the county recorder’s office in person. Most county offices offer online information, but the application process itself requires your presence.

Check with your local county recorder for hours of operation and whether an appointment is necessary before you go.

Materials You’ll Need to Bring

To apply for your marriage license in Iowa, both parties must be present and bring the following materials:

1. Proof of Identity: This can be a valid driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport, or military ID. It’s important that the ID be government-issued and show your current legal name. The witness must also bring an ID.
2. Social Security Number: If either party has a Social Security number, it’s required. Don’t worry if you don’t have one—it’s only required for those who have been assigned one.
3. Date of Birth: You’ll need to provide your birthdate (either on your ID or other records) to confirm eligibility.
4. Payment: There is a fee for the marriage license, which varies by county but typically costs around $35-$50. Be sure to bring a form of payment that’s accepted by your county office (credit cards are often an option).
5. No Residency Requirement: Iowa doesn’t require either party to be a resident of the state to apply for a marriage license.

Witnesses for the Marriage License

You do need one witness (18 years or older) to apply for the marriage license, then two witnesses are required to sign the marriage certificate at your ceremony. These do not need to be the same people. Your officiant will usually take care of the legal documentation, but if you’re having a more intimate ceremony, make sure to arrange for two witnesses to be present at your ceremony to sign the paperwork. Your witnesses can be anyone over the age of 18, and they do not have to be Iowa residents.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Age Requirements: Both parties must be at least 16 years old to marry in Iowa. If either party is under 18, parental consent is required.
• Previous Marriages: If either of you was previously married, you don’t need to provide a divorce decree, but the divorce must be finalized at least 30 days before you apply for your license.
• Same-Sex Marriage: Same-sex couples can legally marry in Iowa. The process for obtaining a marriage license is the same as for opposite-sex couples.

Local County Websites and More Information

Price Creek Event Center is located within 30 minutes of both Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, so many of our couples come from this area. It is important to double-check the county website you plan to apply for the license in, just in case something is different in that county, or even just to check the hours they are open. For your convenience, here are links to counties nearby.

Iowa County (Amana, Williamsburg)

Lynn County (Cedar Rapids)

Johnson County (Iowa City)

Here is one more website that has good information and is easy to read.

People’s Law Library

Conclusion

The process of applying for your marriage license in Iowa is simple and straightforward, and knowing what to expect will make the experience smoother. Don’t forget to take photos of the process along the way, as these moments are just as precious as the ceremony itself! Good luck with your planning, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Curious about how to change your name after the marriage license is signed and submitted after your wedding? We have you covered! Check out Your Ultimate Guide on How and Where to Change Your Name After Marriage in Iowa for all the details.

If you’re still looking for a wedding venue or need help planning the big day, we would love to chat with you about how we can make your wedding day unforgettable. Let us know at if you have any questions!

Price Creek Event Center is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues, you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication, and a greater desire to ensure your wedding truly exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout-out in our blog.
Barn at Bradstreet / Evermore Ridge / Black River Lodge /
Legacy at Serenity Farm / The Hidden Gem of Gruene