Congratulations y’all! I’m so hyped that y’all are getting married!
Step-by-step guide to getting married in Des Moines, Iowa.
Here is the simplest version of how to do it.
- Apply for a Marriage License In-Person Application
- Both parties and one witness (18 years or older) must visit the Des Moines County Recorder’s Office to apply.
- Bring a valid photo ID (Driver’s License or government-issued ID) for all three individuals.
- Pay the application fee, $35.00, payable by cash or credit card. This fee includes a certified copy of your Marriage Certificate.
- Wait for 3 days. The license becomes valid on the fourth day after your application is processed, including weekends.
- If you need the waiting period waived, you can apply for a waiver at the Clerk of Court’s Office.
- Schedule your ceremony on a Monday with the Clerk of Court, or choose an authorized officiant to perform your wedding on another day.
- Get married!
Marriage License Requirements
Post-Ceremony: After your marriage is performed and the Certificate of Marriage is returned to the Recorder’s Office, a certified copy will be mailed to you. This certified copy is essential for changing your name on legal documents, including your driver’s license and social security information.
Ceremony options in Des Moines, Iowa
Post-Ceremony: After your marriage is performed and the Certificate of Marriage is returned to the Recorder’s Office, a certified copy will be mailed to you. This certified copy is essential for changing your name on legal documents, including your driver’s license and social security information.
After the ceremony, make sure the signed license is filed correctly and request a certified copy if you need one for legal records or name changes.
After your ceremony
Post-Ceremony: After your marriage is performed and the Certificate of Marriage is returned to the Recorder’s Office, a certified copy will be mailed to you. This certified copy is essential for changing your name on legal documents, including your driver’s license and social security information.
After the ceremony, make sure the signed license is filed correctly and request a certified copy if you need one for legal records or name changes.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to get married in Iowa?
You must be at least 18 years old, not currently married to someone else, and not closely related by blood.
Can we get married on the same day we apply?
No, Iowa requires a 3-day waiting period. However, you can apply for a waiver if you need to expedite the process.
What if we lose our Marriage Certificate?
You can request a certified copy from the Des Moines County Recorder's Office for $15.00.
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