If you’re considering how to get married at the courthouse in Iowa, you’re looking at one of the most straightforward and affordable ways to make your union official. Getting married at the courthouse in Iowa offers couples a simple legal ceremony without the complexity, cost, or planning associated with traditional weddings. This option is especially popular for couples who want to keep things low-key, avoid delays, or need a quick legal marriage. Iowa’s laws provide clear steps and requirements that make courthouse weddings accessible to residents and non-residents alike. In this detailed guide, you will learn everything about getting married at the court in Iowa, from essential requirements to the full process and helpful tips to ensure your ceremony goes smoothly.
Requirements to Get Married at the Courthouse in Iowa
Before you can get married at the courthouse in Iowa, you must meet several legal requirements designed to ensure your marriage is valid and recognized by the state.
1. Age Requirement
Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Minors aged 16 or 17 may marry with the consent of a parent or guardian and a judge’s approval. Individuals under 16 are not allowed to marry under Iowa law. This regulation protects minors and guarantees that all marriages are entered into voluntarily and legally.
2. Residency
Iowa does not require either party to be a resident of the state to obtain a marriage license or marry in Iowa. Couples from other states or countries can apply and marry in any county courthouse in Iowa, making courthouse weddings very accessible to visitors and non-residents.
3. Marriage License
You must obtain a marriage license before the ceremony can take place. Both parties must appear together in person at the county recorder’s or clerk’s office to apply for the license. Valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID) is required to prove age and identity. The license fee varies by county but typically ranges from \$30 to \$50. Once issued, the license is valid for 60 days, during which time the marriage ceremony must be performed.
4. Waiting Period
Iowa has a mandatory three-day waiting period after the marriage license is issued before you can get married, unless a judge waives this waiting period for good cause. This means you must wait three full days after obtaining your license before the wedding ceremony can legally occur, so plan your timeline accordingly.
5. Not Currently Married
Both parties must be legally free to marry, which means neither person can currently be married to someone else. If either has been previously married, you must disclose the date the previous marriage ended (divorce, annulment, or death). Proof of divorce or annulment is not required at the time of application but must be accurate.
6. Witness Requirement
Iowa law requires at least one witness present at the marriage ceremony. The witness signs the marriage license immediately after the ceremony. If you don’t have a witness, the courthouse may be able to provide one.
7. Officiant Requirement
The ceremony must be officiated by a recognized individual such as a judge, retired judge, ordained clergy, or another official authorized to solemnize marriages in Iowa. For courthouse weddings, it is typically a judge or court official who performs the ceremony.
All Steps to Get Married at the Courthouse in Iowa
1. Apply for Your Marriage License at the County Recorder’s Office
The first step in getting married at the courthouse in Iowa is to apply for your marriage license at the local county recorder’s or clerk’s office. Both you and your partner must appear in person with valid photo IDs to prove your identity and age. During the application, you will provide personal details, including any previous marriages. The fee, usually between \$30 and \$50 depending on the county, must be paid at this time. Once issued, the license activates the three-day waiting period before you can marry.
2. Wait the Mandatory Three-Day Waiting Period
After receiving your marriage license, Iowa law requires a mandatory three-day waiting period before the ceremony can take place unless a judge waives this waiting period. This means you need to plan your wedding date at least three days after the license issue date. For example, if you receive your license on a Monday, the earliest you can marry is Thursday. If you need to waive this period, you can petition a local judge, but this is granted only under special circumstances.
3. Schedule Your Courthouse Wedding Ceremony
Once the waiting period has passed, contact the courthouse or county recorder’s office to schedule your wedding ceremony. Many Iowa counties require appointments for courthouse weddings, especially in urban areas like Polk County or Linn County. The ceremonies are typically brief, lasting about 15-30 minutes, and conducted in a courtroom or designated marriage ceremony room. Scheduling early is important to secure your preferred date and time.
4. Prepare for the Wedding Day
On your courthouse wedding day, bring your marriage license, valid government-issued photo IDs, and at least one witness. Dress neatly and appropriately for a courthouse setting — while formal attire is not required, many couples choose to dress up for the occasion. The courthouse environment is usually quiet and professional, so keeping the ceremony simple and respectful ensures a smooth process.
5. Attend the Ceremony and Sign the Marriage License
During the ceremony, the officiant will conduct a brief but official marriage ceremony where you and your partner exchange vows and declare your intent to marry. Your witness will sign the marriage license immediately afterward, along with you and your spouse. The officiant then files the signed marriage license with the county recorder’s office, officially registering your marriage with the state of Iowa.
6. Request Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
After your marriage is recorded, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county recorder’s office or the Iowa Department of Public Health. Certified copies are necessary for legal purposes such as name changes, insurance, or tax filings. These can often be ordered in person, by mail, or online. The fee per certified copy typically ranges from \$5 to \$15.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married at the Courthouse in Iowa
1. Cost Savings: One of the biggest advantages of getting married at the courthouse in Iowa is the cost savings. You avoid the high expenses associated with traditional weddings such as venue rental, catering, decorations, and entertainment. Your main costs will be the marriage license fee and possibly a small ceremony fee. This makes courthouse weddings an excellent choice for budget-conscious couples or those wanting a simple ceremony.
2. Mandatory Three-Day Waiting Period: Iowa’s mandatory three-day waiting period after obtaining your marriage license means you cannot marry the same day you apply. This is important to keep in mind when planning your wedding date. However, if you have urgent circumstances, you can petition a judge for a waiver. Most couples plan their courthouse wedding at least four or five days after applying for their license to avoid issues.
3. Simple and Quick Ceremonies: Courthouse weddings in Iowa are known for their simplicity and brevity. The ceremony is typically short — usually less than 30 minutes — and focuses on the legal aspects rather than elaborate rituals or celebrations. For couples who prefer a quiet, no-fuss wedding, the courthouse setting is ideal. However, if you want a large, personalized ceremony, this option might feel limiting.
4. Witness and Officiant Requirements: You must have at least one witness present at the ceremony who will sign the marriage license afterward. If you don’t have a witness, most courthouses can provide one. The officiant must be legally authorized to perform marriages, and for courthouse weddings, this is usually a judge or court official.
5. Scheduling and Availability: Depending on the county, scheduling your courthouse wedding can require advance booking. Busy counties such as Polk or Johnson may have limited availability or set times for weddings. It’s best to contact your local courthouse early to confirm appointment procedures and available dates.
6. Obtaining Certified Marriage Certificates: After your wedding, obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate is crucial for legal purposes like changing your name or updating insurance policies. Knowing where and how to get these copies—either at the county recorder’s office or through the Iowa Department of Public Health—can save time. Ordering several certified copies at once is usually recommended.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get married at the courthouse in Iowa allows you to navigate the legal requirements and process with confidence. By meeting the age requirements, applying for a marriage license, respecting the three-day waiting period, and scheduling your ceremony, you can quickly and legally marry at any Iowa courthouse. Courthouse weddings provide a cost-effective, simple, and accessible option for couples who prefer a no-frills legal ceremony. Whether you are an Iowa resident or visiting, this guide covers everything needed for getting married at the court in Iowa, making the journey to your new life together smooth and hassle-free.
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