How to get married in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

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How to get married in Cedar Rapids, Iowa | Courthouse Photographer & Officiant, Marriage license cost

January 18, 2026

Congratulations y’all! I’m so hyped that y’all are getting married!

Step-by-step guide to getting married in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Here is the simplest version of how to do it.

  1. Pick Up a Marriage License Application from the Linn County Recorder’s Office.
  2. Complete the Application with a Witness
  3. Both parties and a witness (18 years or older who knows both parties) must sign the application in the presence of a notary.
  4. You can have the application notarized at the Recorder’s Office.
  5. Submit and notarize the Application along with the $35 fee to the Linn County Recorder’s Office.
  6. Pay the $35 Marriage License Fee payable by check, money order, cash, or credit card (if paying in person).
  7. Wait for the License
  8. Schedule Your Ceremony
  9. Return the Marriage Certificate
  10. Congrats! You’re married!
Couple getting married in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Marriage License Requirements

Address:

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1406, Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-1406

  • To waive the three-day waiting period, apply for a waiver at the Clerk of Court’s Office located at 51 3rd Avenue Bridge, Cedar Rapids, IA.

  • Once a judge has approved the waiver, you must submit it along with your marriage application to the Linn County Recorder’s Office.

  • The Clerk of Court only performs courthouse marriages on Mondays. Call the Civil Division at 319-398-3411 to schedule your ceremony.

  • If you’re planning a private ceremony, find an authorized officiant to perform it.

  • After your marriage, the signed certificate of marriage needs to be returned to the Recorder’s Office.

  • The Recorder will issue a certified copy, which can be used to update your driver’s license, social security information, and other records.

  • Requirements: Marriage license, both partners, and any witnesses.

  • Ceremony Fee: There is no fee for courthouse weddings performed by the Clerk of Court.

Marriage guide photo for Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Ceremony options in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

  • To waive the three-day waiting period, apply for a waiver at the Clerk of Court’s Office located at 51 3rd Avenue Bridge, Cedar Rapids, IA.
  • Once a judge has approved the waiver, you must submit it along with your marriage application to the Linn County Recorder’s Office.
  • The Clerk of Court only performs courthouse marriages on Mondays. Call the Civil Division at 319-398-3411 to schedule your ceremony.
  • If you’re planning a private ceremony, find an authorized officiant to perform it.
  • After your marriage, the signed certificate of marriage needs to be returned to the Recorder’s Office.
  • The Recorder will issue a certified copy, which can be used to update your driver’s license, social security information, and other records.

Courthouse Wedding:

  • Requirements: Marriage license, both partners, and any witnesses.
  • Ceremony Fee: There is no fee for courthouse weddings performed by the Clerk of Court.

Officiant Wedding:

After your ceremony

  • To waive the three-day waiting period, apply for a waiver at the Clerk of Court’s Office located at 51 3rd Avenue Bridge, Cedar Rapids, IA.
  • Once a judge has approved the waiver, you must submit it along with your marriage application to the Linn County Recorder’s Office.
  • The Clerk of Court only performs courthouse marriages on Mondays. Call the Civil Division at 319-398-3411 to schedule your ceremony.
  • If you’re planning a private ceremony, find an authorized officiant to perform it.
  • After your marriage, the signed certificate of marriage needs to be returned to the Recorder’s Office.
  • The Recorder will issue a certified copy, which can be used to update your driver’s license, social security information, and other records.
Wedding photo after the ceremony in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a marriage license valid in Iowa?

A marriage license is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance.

Can you get married the same day apply for a license in Iowa?

No, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period unless you obtain a waiver from the Clerk of Court.

What's the cost of a marriage license in Cedar Rapids?

The cost is $35, payable by check, money order, cash, or credit card.

How can I change my last name after marriage?

Use your certified marriage certificate to update your name with the Social Security Administration, Iowa DOT, and other legal documents. !couples getting married in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

935 2nd St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

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