Getting+Married?

MARRIAGE LICENSE LAWS IN THE STATE OF IOWA

Getting married? Here is what you need to bring with you, and what you need to know about the Iowa marriage laws before filling out the Iowa marriage license form.

In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. This is the document that allows you to officially tie the knot under the law. The rules for acquiring your marriage license varies from state to state.

Iowa Residency and ID Requirements:
You do not have to be a resident of Iowa. Picture identification is required. You also need to provide Social Security information.

Previous Marriages:
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.

Same Sex Marriage in Iowa:
Yes, same sex marriages are legal in Iowa. The law became effective April 27, 2009.

Iowa Waiting Period:
Iowa has a three (3) business day waiting period.

Fees for Marriage Licenses in Iowa:
$30+ -- cash only. 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.

Cousin Marriage in Iowa:
No.

Common-Law Marriage in Iowa:
Yes.
 * Common Law Marriage status if:**
 * a present intent of both parties freely given to become married exists
 * both parties publicly declare themselves as common law married
 * the parties have lived together continuously and consummated the marriage (no special time limit, however)
 * both parties are legally capable of entering into a marriage relationship; that is, both are of legal age and neither is legally married to someone else at the time.


 * For marriage certificate purposes:**
 * Only legally solemnized marriage ceremonies per the Code of Iowa, chapter 595, are registered as an Iowa vital event. Such marriages permit the parties to legally change their surname through the marriage certificate. Common law marriages are not registered in the Iowa vital records system.

Under 18 in Iowa:
Applicants 16 or 17 years of age need to have parental consent.

Wedding Officiants in Iowa:
Any ordained or licensed clergymen, and justices of the peace.

Witnesses:
You need to have one witness (over 18 years of age) with you when you apply for the license.

Term of Validity For Marriage License:
An Iowa marriage license is valid for 6 months.