Getting a Marriage License in Iowa
Where to apply for a marriage license in Iowa, what to bring, the waiting period, how long it's valid, and the minimum marriage age.
Short answer: A license must be obtained from the county registrar before the marriage. Both parties sign and file a verified application, which includes each applicant's Social Security number and at least one affidavit from a competent, disinterested person stating the facts about the parties' age… Iowa Code §§ 595.3, 595.4, 331.605(6)(g)
| Getting a marriage license | A license must be obtained from the county registrar before the marriage. Both parties sign and file a verified application, which includes each applicant's Social Security number and at least one affidavit from a competent, disinterested person stating the facts about the parties' age and qualifications. The license does not become valid until three days after it is issued; a district judge can authorize early validation in an emergency or extraordinary circumstances (there is an extra $5 fee for that application, which can be waived for inability to pay). If a license is not issued within six months after the application, the application is void. The state-set fee for filing the application is $35, which includes one certified copy of the marriage certificate. Fee: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/331.605.pdf |
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| Minimum marriage age | Both parties must be 18 or older. A 16- or 17-year-old may get a license only if the parents (or, in some cases, one parent or a guardian) certify their consent in writing and a district judge approves it, finding the minor able to assume the responsibilities of marriage and that the marriage serves the minor's best interest; pregnancy alone does not establish best interest. If a parent unreasonably withholds consent, the judge can review the request. Iowa law sets no path for anyone under 16. Source: Iowa Code §§ 595.2, 595.3 |
Where to get help in Iowa
More Iowa divorce & family law
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- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Iowa
- Establishing Paternity in Iowa
- Changing Your Name in Iowa
- Child Custody Laws in Iowa
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Iowa
- Divorce Records in Iowa
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Iowa
- How to File for Divorce in Iowa
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Iowa
- All Iowa divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you get a marriage license in Iowa?
A license must be obtained from the county registrar before the marriage. Both parties sign and file a verified application, which includes each applicant's Social Security number and at least one affidavit from a competent, disinterested person stating the facts about the parties' age and qualifications. The license does not become valid until three days after it is issued; a district judge can authorize early validation in an emergency or extraordinary circumstances (there is an extra $5 fee for that application, which can be waived for inability to pay). If a license is not issued within six months after the application, the application is void. The state-set fee for filing the application is $35, which includes one certified copy of the marriage certificate.
What is the legal age to get married in Iowa?
Both parties must be 18 or older. A 16- or 17-year-old may get a license only if the parents (or, in some cases, one parent or a guardian) certify their consent in writing and a district judge approves it, finding the minor able to assume the responsibilities of marriage and that the marriage serves the minor's best interest; pregnancy alone does not establish best interest. If a parent unreasonably withholds consent, the judge can review the request. Iowa law sets no path for anyone under 16.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.